European Innovation Council

Tozero, founded in July 2022 in Munich, Germany, by Sarah Fleischer and Dr. Ksenija Milicevic Neumann, focuses on developing technology for recycling lithium-ion batteries. The company aims to create a scalable machine that recovers essential materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, and manganese in an environmentally sustainable manner. By facilitating the recovery of these critical materials, Tozero enables industries to reintegrate fresh raw materials back into the supply chain, thereby supporting broader decarbonization efforts.

Developer of a sustainable cooling and heating technology based on magnetic materials designed to replace standard gas compression cooling. The company's technology offers magnetic cooling systems for room temperature applications and hydrogen liquefaction plants, enabling clients to update the standard gas compression cycle with a magnetic refrigeration cycle.

bound4blue specializes in the development of innovative foldable and autonomous wingsail systems designed for integration into a variety of vessels. This technology serves as a complementary propulsion system, harnessing wind power to generate thrust and significantly reducing the reliance on main engine power. As a result, bound4blue's wingsails can lead to reductions in fuel consumption and pollutant emissions by up to 40%. In addition to improving environmental sustainability, the system offers a payback period of less than five years, making it an economically viable option for boat operators. The technology also facilitates the production of hydrogen and oxygen through the electrolysis of seawater, further enhancing its eco-friendly credentials.

Plant-e is a pioneering company that specializes in harnessing the power of living plants to generate electricity. Founded in 2009 as a spin-off from Wageningen University, the company focuses on developing technology that enables power generation without harming the plants. Utilizing plant-microbial fuel cells, Plant-e captures electrons from the soil and converts them into electrical energy. This innovative approach allows for the creation of power sources from green roofs, wetlands, and rice paddies, effectively transforming them into sustainable energy providers. Marjolein Helder, who has been the CEO since her PhD graduation in 2012, leads the company, while David Strik continues to bridge the gap between scientific research and product development.

Cellugy is a biotechnology startup focused on creating sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics through the production of 100% natural bio-cellulose. Utilizing a fermentation platform, the company harnesses renewable resources instead of fossil fuels to develop high-quality cellulose that competes effectively in terms of economics and environmental impact. Cellugy's innovative approach allows for the production of various grades and qualities of cellulose, making it applicable across multiple industries, including personal care, packaging, textiles, and food. By offering a more sustainable solution, Cellugy aims to significantly reduce the environmental footprint associated with traditional materials.

Electrochaea GmbH develops and commercializes a grid-scale power-to-gas energy storage technology. The company’s biocatalytic power-to-gas technology converts low-cost and stranded electricity into pipeline-grade renewable gas for direct injection into the existing natural gas grid, which is used for on-site power production, heating applications, or transmitted over long distances using existing pipelines. Its technology enables storing large amounts of renewable energy from wind and solar; and represents a solution for utility-scale energy storage, grid balancing, and carbon recycling. Electrochaea GmbH was founded in 2010 and is based in Planegg, Germany with additional operation facilities at Hvidovre, Denmark, and Sacramento, California.

Developer of a retractable bow foil technology designed to reduce fuel consumption and ship motions in waves for marine vessels. The company's foils use a smart retraction mechanism with the use of light but strong composite materials that aid in generating lift when the vessel is moving up and down in waves, enabling clients to have access to a material that facilitates wave propulsion.

Enerpoly is a next-generation energy storage technology company pioneering rechargeable zinc-ion battery chemistry. Enerpoly innovates in battery components, production methods, and designs, and employs agile research and development techniques to rapidly deliver batteries that are suitable for the grid, industrial, commercial, and residential uses.

VoltAero is a manufacturer of electric aircraft that focuses on providing safe, quiet, and eco-friendly flight solutions. The company specializes in parallel electric-hybrid propulsion systems, allowing for efficient and reliable general aviation platforms. Its aircraft cater to a variety of uses, including private ownership, air taxi and charter services, and commercial flights for regional travel. By developing innovative electric aircraft, VoltAero aims to enable clients to embrace a new era of sustainable aviation.

C2C-NewCap seeks to provide next-generation devices for storing electrical energy and aims to deliver high efficiency energy solutions. Charge2CNewCap was founded in 2014 by Rui Silva and Andre Mao de Ferro and is based in Lisbon.

Enerpoly is a next-generation energy storage technology company pioneering rechargeable zinc-ion battery chemistry. Enerpoly innovates in battery components, production methods, and designs, and employs agile research and development techniques to rapidly deliver batteries that are suitable for the grid, industrial, commercial, and residential uses.