The Center for a Solar Powered Future (SPF2050) is a National Science Foundation Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC). We have been in operation for over 11 years and were previously known as the Center for Next Generation Photovoltaics (NGPV). The IUCRC program was initiated in 1973 and has more than 70 active centers of excellence across the United States and abroad based on best practices in industry/university interaction. By developing the next generation of technology advancements for the solar power industry, SPF2050 works with its industry partners to help solve one of the most important challenges facing modern society: global energy sustainability.