FAQs
ℹ️ General Questions
What is the Solutions Explorer AI Platform?
The Solutions Explorer is a next-generation search platform designed to empower decision-makers, innovators, and organizations with access to transformative cleantech solutions. Built on the Solar Impulse Foundation's Solutions Explorer, it represents the evolution of years of research and development into an intuitive, AI-powered tool for finding, evaluating, and adopting technologies that address global environmental challenges while driving economic progress.
For more information visit What is the Solutions Explorer?
Is the Solutions Explorer free to use?
The Solar Impulse Foundation being a non-profit, we provide the Solutions Explorer free of charge to any user. However, we require a free user signup to access our most advanced features on the platform.
Do I need an account to use the Solutions Explorer?
No, you don't need an account to use the Solutions Explorer. You can browse all the solutions freely as a an unauthenticated user. However, features like the saving solutions as favorites requires an account.
What are the new changes compared to the previous version?
We've integrated several changes in this version:
AI is now used to perform searches both on the devault solutions and use case browsing.
We've introduced use cases, linked to solutions to showcase the implementation of solutions
We've created Collections, which are bundled portfolios of solutions by thematic
We've added a new landing page to showcase the Solutions Explorer new features
Who can benefit from using the Solution Explorer?
For Businesses: Discover cost-efficient materials for thermal insulation or precision irrigation technologies.
For NGOs: Identify solutions tailored to providing water in developing regions.
For Policymakers: Explore technologies for large-scale land use reduction or renewable energy adoption.
For Individuals: Get inspired by solutions, technical or behavioral, that you can implement today in your lifestyle and reduce your impact.
⚙️ Features and Functionality
Am I restricted in the number of searches?
No, we do not impose restrictions on the number of searches you can perform. However, all users must adhere to the Terms and Conditions of Use and respect the system’s intended functionality. Specifically:
Fair Usage Policy: Users are expected to use the search system responsibly. Overloading the system with excessive or automated requests, or attempting to maliciously saturate the server, is strictly prohibited.
Monitoring and Enforcement: To ensure the platform remains accessible to all, we carefully monitor system usage. If we detect behavior that constitutes abuse or violates our Terms and Conditions, such as attempting to overload the server, we reserve the right to take appropriate action.
Access Restrictions: In cases of abuse, actions may include limiting a user’s access or implementing an access ban to safeguard the platform’s stability for other users.
By using the system, you agree to use it responsibly and in compliance with our Terms and Conditions. If you have any questions about proper usage, feel free to contact our support team.
For more information about our terms and conditions, please visit: Terms and Conditions
How does the Smart Semantic Search work?
The Smart Semantic Search uses advanced AI to understand the meaning behind your query, not just the exact words you type. This is called semantic search, which helps find relevant solutions even if they don’t match your exact keywords. For example, searching for “eco-friendly home insulation” might show results for “sustainable insulation materials.”
The system uses a hybrid approach:
Keyword Search: Finds exact or partial matches for your words.
Semantic Search: Uses AI to understand the context and meaning of your query.
Powered by OpenAI’s text-embedding model and Typesense, it combines these methods to give you fast and accurate results, whether your query is simple or complex.
What are Collections, and how can I use them?
Collections are curated bundles of solutions grouped by specific themes or filters, such as Behavioral Solutions, Solutions from Africa, or other categories. They serve as high-level entry points for browsing the database without needing to perform a specific search.
Curated by our team, these Collections allow you to:
Quickly explore solutions within a particular theme or interest.
Discover insights and innovations grouped by region, sector, or focus area.
Access relevant solutions without needing detailed queries.
Simply select a Collection that interests you to start browsing and find inspiration!
How can I browse solution implementations on the map?
We’ve added a feature to the default solution search that allows you to browse solutions' use cases on a map.
Here’s how it works:
Use the switch in the search interface to toggle to the map view.
Explore implementation stories geographically using our Mapbox-powered map.
Search and filter use cases by region, client to find relevant implementations near you or around the world.
This feature makes it easy to visualize real-world applications of our solutions and find location-specific insights.
Does the platform support multiple languages?
Yes, the AI Assistant supports queries in any language. However, we recommend using English for the best experience and accuracy.
The platform’s general localization is available in English, French, Italian, and German, ensuring users can explore solutions in these key languages. We advise to use the right localisation with the right prompt/search for the best experience.
How can I stay updated on new features and solutions?
Create a Solution Explorer account to stay informed! By signing up, you’ll receive notifications about:
New solutions added to the platform.
Feature updates or new releases to enhance your experience.
General platform improvements and announcements.
It’s the easiest way to ensure you’re always up-to-date with the latest innovations and tools available.
🚀 Solution Listings
I want to be featured on the Solution Explorer. How can I apply?
To have your solution featured on the Solution Explorer, follow these steps:
Sign Up: Join the World Alliance for Efficient Solutions by creating an account and completing your company profile.
Submit Your Solution:
Log in to your account and click on “Create a Solution” to access the Solution Submission Form.
Complete Part 1 of the form, providing essential details about your solution. This typically takes 20-40 minutes.
Submit Part 1 for review. If validated, your solution will be displayed on the Solution Explorer as a Featured Solution.
Apply for the Efficient Solution Label (Optional but Recommended):
After your solution is featured, proceed to Part 2 of the submission form, accessible via your Dashboard. This section requires more detailed information and may take several hours to complete.
The Solar Impulse Foundation’s Technical Team will review your submission. If it meets the criteria, it will be evaluated by independent experts.
Upon successful evaluation, your solution will receive the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label, enhancing its credibility and visibility.
For more information on the application process and benefits, visit the Submit a Solution page.
Note: The entire process, including evaluation, can take up to 14 weeks, depending on the completeness of your submission and the availability of experts.
Can I suggest a solution that is not currently listed?
Yes, absolutely! If you know of a solution that is not yet listed, you can:
Reach Out to Our Team: Send an email to alliance@solarimpulse.com with details about the solution you’d like to suggest.
Contact the Solution Provider: Encourage the solution provider to submit their solution directly by following the process outlined on our Submit a Solution page.
We’re always looking to feature innovative solutions and appreciate your contributions!
I have other questions regarding the Labelling process.
If you have specific questions about the labelling process, you can go to our dedicated FAQ page on the Solar Impulse's website.
🔒 Privacy and Data Usage
Can the Solar Impulse Foundation view my searches on the platform?
Yes, the Solar Impulse Foundation monitors search activity and platform usage to enhance functionality and improve the user experience. Here’s how your data is handled:
Search and Usage Monitoring:
All searches and interactions with the assistant are logged for analysis and stored in our private database.
Cookies are used to track website usage and session activity.
Assistant Monitoring:
Data from interactions with the AI Assistant is monitored through the LangSmith platform, ensuring continuous improvement and reliability.
Purpose of Monitoring:
To improve search accuracy and refine features based on user behavior.
To optimize user experience by analyzing platform activity and preferences.
Rest assured, all data is handled in compliance with privacy policies, and no personal information is shared or used for purposes beyond platform enhancement. For more details, refer to our Privacy Policy.
How is my personal data protected?
The Solar Impulse Foundation takes the protection of your personal data seriously. Here’s how we ensure your information remains secure:
Data Collection and Use:
We collect only the necessary personal data to provide services, improve user experience, and monitor platform functionality.
Data such as IP addresses, access times, browser types, and interactions with the platform may be collected.
Storage and Security:
Personal data is stored securely in compliance with applicable data protection regulations.
We implement robust security measures, including encryption and access controls, to protect your data against unauthorized access or disclosure.
Use of Cookies:
Cookies are used to track website usage and improve functionality. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings.
Third-Party Services:
Monitoring of interactions with the AI Assistant is performed through trusted third-party platforms like LangSmith, which also comply with data protection standards.
Privacy Policy Compliance:
All data handling is conducted in strict adherence to our Privacy Policy, which details your rights, including access, correction, and deletion of your personal data.
Your Rights:
You have the right to request access to your personal data, ask for corrections, or request the deletion of your information at any time.
For further information, please review our Privacy Policy or contact us directly for assistance.
What are the terms and conditions of using the Solution Explorer?
You can access the terms & conditions of the Solutions Explorer on this section Terms and Conditions
👩🏻💻 Technical Support
What should I do if I encounter technical issues?
If you experience any technical issues while using the Solution Explorer, please take the following steps:
Check the Support Page: Contact Support for contacting our team and troubleshooting tips.
Report a Bug: If the issue persists, you can report a bug directly to our team by:
Filling out the Bug Report Form available on the support page: Report a bug.
Providing as much detail as possible, including the steps to reproduce the issue, screenshots (if applicable), and your contact information.
Our team will review your report and work to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Thank you for helping us improve the platform!
Are there tutorials or user guides available?
Yes! To get started quickly and learn how to use the platform effectively, refer to our Quickstart Page.
The Quickstart Page provides:
Step-by-step guides for navigating the Solution Explorer.
Tips on using search features and filters.
Instructions on exploring collections and map-based implementations.
Visit the Quickstart page to access tutorials and resources designed to help you make the most of the platform.
Who can I contact for further questions or feedback?
Depending on your request, you can reach out through the following channels:
Feedback: Share your thoughts or suggestions via our Submit Feedback Page.
Technical Issues or Bug Reports: If you encounter any technical problems, visit the Report a bug Page to provide details.
General Support: For other inquiries or assistance, contact us through the Contact Support Page.
Our team is here to help and values your input to improve the platform!
Additional Resources
Are there opportunities to partner with the Solar Impulse Foundation?
Yes, the Solar Impulse Foundation actively seeks partnerships with organizations that share its commitment to promoting clean and profitable technological solutions to tackle climate change. Collaborating with the Foundation can involve various forms of engagement, including:
Corporate Partnerships: Aligning with companies to identify, assess, and scale up profitable solutions for environmental and energy transitions. For example, the Foundation has partnered with organizations like Bouygues to promote sustainable technologies.
Public Partnerships: Engaging with governmental bodies and regions to support cleantech companies and showcase the region as a key actor in the cleantech sector. The Foundation has collaborated with regions such as Île-de-France and Grand Est to advance sustainable initiatives.
Collaborations with NGOs and Institutions: Working alongside non-governmental organizations and institutions to foster the adoption of clean technologies across various sectors. Partnerships with entities like Movin'ON focus on fostering clean technology solutions for sustainable mobility.
To explore partnership opportunities, please visit the Partners page on the Solar Impulse Foundation's website. Here, you can find detailed information about existing partnerships and the collaborative efforts undertaken to promote sustainable solutions.
For direct inquiries or to propose a partnership, you can contact the Foundation through the contact information provided on our website. Engaging with the Solar Impulse Foundation offers a platform to contribute to the global effort in addressing climate change through innovative and efficient solutions.
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