G&ECO and Sora Bear Fund Join Forces for Solar Project
Starting from July 1, 2026, the NPO Sora Bear Fund will launch the popular "Third Annual Solar Bear Sonair Project" in collaboration with G&ECO. This initiative aims to donate portable power supplies and solar panels to kindergartens, nurseries, and preschools across Japan, enhancing their resilience in emergencies and raising environmental awareness among young children.
Background of the Project
The Sora Bear Fund, established in 2008, has focused on promoting renewable energy to combat global warming. One of its flagship initiatives is the "Sora Bear Smile Project," which donates solar power generation systems to educational and childcare facilities nationwide, aiming to reach 100 installations by 2025. The "Smile Project" provides 5kW solar power systems, but many facilities either lack sufficient roof space or face installation challenges. Thus, the Solar Bear Sonair Project was born in 2024 to assist these facilities.
G&ECO has been a corporate supporter of the Sora Bear Fund since 2022, donating about 1.5% of its sales from the portable generator "ELSONA" to non-profit organizations promoting renewable energy. As part of this commitment, G&ECO will sponsor the current Sonair Project by donating portable power kits and solar panels, as well as conducting educational workshops focusing on environmental awareness and disaster preparedness.
What the Project Offers
Each selected facility will receive:
- - Two Sets of Equipment: One portable power supply (EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus with a capacity of 1,024Wh) and one lightweight solar panel (EcoFlow 220W).
- - Workshop: A 40-minute interactive session on environmental issues and disaster preparedness called the "Sora Bear Workshop." Dates for workshops will be coordinated with participating facilities.
- - Commemorative Items: All children within the participating facilities will receive a special edition picture book titled "Sora Bear."
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open from July 1, 2026, until September 4, 2026. Eligible facilities include public and private institutions with at least ten children aged three to five years. Facilities that do not have the roof space for the Smile Project’s solar systems (minimum 31 square meters) are encouraged to apply. All applicants must meet specific criteria outlined on the project’s registration site.
The project targets regions in the Kanto area (Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba) and the Kansai area (Osaka, Hyogo, and Kyoto). The selection will be conducted via a lottery system, with one institution chosen from each area.
Community Impact
The availability of portable power units is crucial during power outages, enabling communication and operation of essential appliances like kettles and microwaves. On sunny days, the solar panels allow for charging outdoors, making these resources valuable for both emergency preparedness and outdoor activities. As children engage in discussions about environmental and disaster issues, they develop a sense of responsibility toward their surroundings.
The Sora Bear Fund looks forward to receiving many applications from preschools, kindergartens, and nurseries eager to participate in this impactful initiative. To submit an application, interested facilities can access the online form on the project’s website.
Conclusion
Through the Solar Bear Sonair Project, G&ECO and the Sora Bear Fund reinforce their commitment to nurturing young minds while promoting renewable energy education. This collaboration not only empowers children but also prepares them to confront future environmental challenges with knowledge and resilience.
For more information and to apply, visit:
Sora Bear Fund Project Page.