Techstars

Climate change creates new risks for electric utilities. From more frequent and intense storms to droughts that create wildfire-friendly conditions, it’s now more critical than ever for these companies to enact mitigation measures that account for these risks. One mitigation is the proactive inspection and inventory of grid assets at-scale, usually by piloting aerial drone missions to collect imagery and video on each asset. While these methods have proven to increase both grid safety and resiliency, most are employed on the transmission grid but not on the distribution grid. This is because, compared to transmission grid assets, distribution grid assets are too numerous, too geographically dispersed, are often located in densely populated areas, and the aerial view is often obscured by vegetation for much of the year. This makes piloting drone inspection missions over distribution grid assets extremely difficult. Yet, 90% of power outages occur on the distribution grid and there are cases of faulty distribution grid equipment sparking wildfires, such as the recent Silverado Fire in Southern California. Noteworthy AI solves this problem by ensuring that distribution grid assets are adequately inspected and monitored. Our solution combines hardware at the Edge and software in the Cloud to help electric utilities inspect and inventory distribution grid assets at scale. Our Edge hardware mounts directly on electric utility fleet vehicles (e.g. repair trucks) and uses proprietary computer vision to inspect and inventory distribution poles and their components with no impact on crew duties. Results are sent to our Cloud software in real-time. This converts non-productive fleet vehicle travel time into active inspection and monitoring at a low cost, enabling electric utilities to reap grid resiliency and safety benefits on the distribution grid as well.

Hive Power develops a SaaS for Smart Grid Analytics, to help Energy Retailers and Grid Operators to have a smarter data-driven operation. Thanks to specific applications for demand forecasting, management of energy communities, design of new billing schemes, and electric grid modelling and diagnostics, the Hive Platform is the first holistic tool to enable Smart Grids.

Climate change creates new risks for electric utilities. From more frequent and intense storms to droughts that create wildfire-friendly conditions, it’s now more critical than ever for these companies to enact mitigation measures that account for these risks. One mitigation is the proactive inspection and inventory of grid assets at-scale, usually by piloting aerial drone missions to collect imagery and video on each asset. While these methods have proven to increase both grid safety and resiliency, most are employed on the transmission grid but not on the distribution grid. This is because, compared to transmission grid assets, distribution grid assets are too numerous, too geographically dispersed, are often located in densely populated areas, and the aerial view is often obscured by vegetation for much of the year. This makes piloting drone inspection missions over distribution grid assets extremely difficult. Yet, 90% of power outages occur on the distribution grid and there are cases of faulty distribution grid equipment sparking wildfires, such as the recent Silverado Fire in Southern California. Noteworthy AI solves this problem by ensuring that distribution grid assets are adequately inspected and monitored. Our solution combines hardware at the Edge and software in the Cloud to help electric utilities inspect and inventory distribution grid assets at scale. Our Edge hardware mounts directly on electric utility fleet vehicles (e.g. repair trucks) and uses proprietary computer vision to inspect and inventory distribution poles and their components with no impact on crew duties. Results are sent to our Cloud software in real-time. This converts non-productive fleet vehicle travel time into active inspection and monitoring at a low cost, enabling electric utilities to reap grid resiliency and safety benefits on the distribution grid as well.

The Future of Smart Home Energy

Ballbox is a provider of logistics services focused on the rental of sports, technology, and leisure equipment. The company offers an innovative solar-powered vending system that allows tourists and residents to rent items such as footballs and beach chairs. By enabling customers to access packages purchased online, rent products for immediate use, and buy necessary items on the spot, Ballbox facilitates a convenient experience for users at various locations, including apartments, hotels, parks, and beaches. This approach not only enhances leisure activities but also supports retailers by allowing them to deliver their products directly to consumers.

GetHenry provides electric vehicle subscriptions incl. software and service to delivery companies and couriers.

WattBuy is an online marketplace that assists residents in saving on electricity costs by facilitating the selection of cheaper electricity providers. Founded in 2017, the platform empowers users to make informed decisions about their home electricity expenses by enabling them to browse and choose from a variety of plans available in their area. As several state governments have deregulated the electricity market, homeowners in 14 states can now access over 50 electricity providers and plans tailored to their needs. WattBuy utilizes a personalized recommendation engine to help clients set up electricity plans that align with their preferences and usage, ultimately allowing them to switch to more cost-effective options. The company is supported by the Department of Energy and Techstars Accelerator.

Elektrik is a website that helps users find cable part numbers, alternative brands of cable, and accessories that fit the cable. Elektrik's goal is to dramatically help distributors, contractors, engineers and manufacturers speed up the cable/accessory buying process. Elektrik is a team of industry experts and with their knowledge, Elektrik hopes to help everyone make it a simpler and more efficient way to find electrical supplies.

Syn is an Energy-Tech startup helping electric utilities save money, time, and resources while they prepare for, or deal with natural disaster-like emergencies. We own two proprietary Artificial Intelligence technologies that help us do this, and deliver real value via our SaaS/PaaS offerings.

Mesodyne's solution is a novel ultra-high energy density, multi-fuel, silent, compact power generator. Our generators convert fuel to electricity with heat and light as intermediaries: a small micro combustor heats a photonic crystal to incandescence and the resulting light is tailored to the bandgap of an infrared cell resulting in unprecedented high efficiencies.

We deliver a seamless EV charging experience with comfort, confidence and simplicity.

Climate change is one of the biggest threats today. PowerMarket, supported by the University of Oxford and European Space Agency Business Incubator, is on a mission to facilitate sustainable energy for all, creating energy independence. The traditional energy model is based on centralised, large-scale electricity generation systems. The model is not only capital intensive, but also has high carbon emissions. To combat the threat of climate change, countries are increasingly switching to renewable electricity. However, at a national scale, most still focus on large-scale energy generation plants that require heavy capital investment. Sustainable energy transition challenge is not only for governments and public sector institutions, but for all of us. PowerMarket’s objective is to help individuals and companies to cost effectively install decentralised renewable energy generation and battery storage, so that they can become increasingly energy independent and protect themselves from rising energy prices. First few steps towards an energy revolution - PowerMarket’s pilot Satellite Assessment Tool (SAT) allows individuals and companies to assess their property’s solar feasibility within a few clicks, and for free. Now you can use this information to find suppliers, finance and maintenance solutions fit for your need.

GetHenry provides electric vehicle subscriptions incl. software and service to delivery companies and couriers.

Salient Energy is focused on the commercialization of a novel zinc-ion battery developed from research at the University of Waterloo. This innovative battery technology is designed for electricity storage in the grid, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Salient Energy's proprietary cathode materials uniquely incorporate zinc into their crystal lattice, resulting in a relatively high energy density. This advancement allows for the use of traditional battery designs compatible with existing manufacturing processes, making it feasible to produce these batteries in current facilities worldwide. Consequently, Salient Energy's products provide a cost-effective, long-lasting solution for energy storage, catering to the needs of electric industry stakeholders.

Flextrapower is a remote monitoring company powered by graphene technology, a disruptive material with unique properties that allow for ground-breaking biomedical applications. Graphene is stronger than steel, yet incredibly lightweight and flexible. It is electrically and thermally conductive but also transparent. It’s one million times thinner than the diameter of a single human hair. Our team has developed and patented a method to seamlessly embed graphene sensors into flexible materials, like clothing. This method enables us to develop state-of-the-art remote monitoring products that advance health outcomes and improve patient care. Currently, Flextrapower has developed a smart insole that detects diabetic foot ulcers, an EMG-integrated smart shirt, and a COVID-19 mask featuring a layer of graphene.

They are developing a next-generation radioisotope power system that converts the heat from recycled nuclear waste into electricity.Their novel fuel and shielding design results in a system that is lightweight, cost-effective, and provides always-on, resilient power for years at a time.

RatedPower offers pvDesign, a cloud-based software to carry out the design and engineering of utility-scale solar photovoltaic plants. The software offers a faster, more automated, accurate, and reliable method than traditional engineering, improving the profitability of users assets.

WattBuy is an online marketplace that assists residents in saving on electricity costs by facilitating the selection of cheaper electricity providers. Founded in 2017, the platform empowers users to make informed decisions about their home electricity expenses by enabling them to browse and choose from a variety of plans available in their area. As several state governments have deregulated the electricity market, homeowners in 14 states can now access over 50 electricity providers and plans tailored to their needs. WattBuy utilizes a personalized recommendation engine to help clients set up electricity plans that align with their preferences and usage, ultimately allowing them to switch to more cost-effective options. The company is supported by the Department of Energy and Techstars Accelerator.

Backed by Techstars, Nikola Power is building a software infrastructure which seamlessly integrates and manages millions of distributed energy resources. We combine our technology with extensive experience in renewable energy development and project finance to help customers easily access and optimize the benefits of energy storage.

EcoG GmbH is a developer of an Internet of Things (IoT) operating system and platform tailored for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Founded in 2017 and based in Fürth, Germany, with additional offices in Oslo and Detroit, EcoG connects users, vehicles, and local businesses through its cloud-based platform. This platform allows charging infrastructure operators to implement a personalized and customized fast-charging experience while enabling shared revenue streams and value-added services. EcoG provides a comprehensive starter kit that includes charging control, backend connectivity, payment solutions, and user interface components, as well as tools for the development and simulation of EV charger software. The company's offerings empower charger manufacturers and operators to differentiate their services, thus enhancing the overall EV charging ecosystem.

A uniquely designed electric board that’s built for owning the streets. It’s much more than a Skateboard. It’s design and technology smashed together in a tiny package on four wheels.

Gridwise, Inc. develops and operates a peer-to-peer driver intelligence mobile application for rideshare drivers. The company's software solution enables drivers to receive events and end time updates, real-time alerts, airport demand data, and maintain driver taskbar. Its application also enables to get alerts about traffic, weather, events letting out, and other nearby opportunities; calculate tax deductions and prepare detailed tax reports; automatically track mileage; and get real-time passenger data. Gridwise, Inc. was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

EcoG GmbH is a developer of an Internet of Things (IoT) operating system and platform tailored for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Founded in 2017 and based in Fürth, Germany, with additional offices in Oslo and Detroit, EcoG connects users, vehicles, and local businesses through its cloud-based platform. This platform allows charging infrastructure operators to implement a personalized and customized fast-charging experience while enabling shared revenue streams and value-added services. EcoG provides a comprehensive starter kit that includes charging control, backend connectivity, payment solutions, and user interface components, as well as tools for the development and simulation of EV charger software. The company's offerings empower charger manufacturers and operators to differentiate their services, thus enhancing the overall EV charging ecosystem.

OffGridBox is a modular and compact unit that provides renewable energy and clean water in remote areas and developing countries. Their OffGridBox™, an all-in-one system, fits entirely inside a 6x6x6 feet shipping container and is equipped with all the hardware needed to produce electricity and clean water. This innovative technology is a solution for more than 2 billion people worldwide that need energy and clean water on a daily basis. One unit potentially managed by a local women co-op in a Rwandese village can impact up to 300 families (circa 1500 people) providing Tier 1 electricity and sterilized water. They deployed 38 units in 9 Countries (Italy, South Africa, Rwanda, Nigeria, Philippines, Madagascar, US and Colombia) for different segments: humanitarian, household retail, service to industry. These units have operated more than 400,000 working hours.

OffGridBox is a modular and compact unit that provides renewable energy and clean water in remote areas and developing countries. Their OffGridBox™, an all-in-one system, fits entirely inside a 6x6x6 feet shipping container and is equipped with all the hardware needed to produce electricity and clean water. This innovative technology is a solution for more than 2 billion people worldwide that need energy and clean water on a daily basis. One unit potentially managed by a local women co-op in a Rwandese village can impact up to 300 families (circa 1500 people) providing Tier 1 electricity and sterilized water. They deployed 38 units in 9 Countries (Italy, South Africa, Rwanda, Nigeria, Philippines, Madagascar, US and Colombia) for different segments: humanitarian, household retail, service to industry. These units have operated more than 400,000 working hours.

OffGridBox is a modular and compact unit that provides renewable energy and clean water in remote areas and developing countries. Their OffGridBox™, an all-in-one system, fits entirely inside a 6x6x6 feet shipping container and is equipped with all the hardware needed to produce electricity and clean water. This innovative technology is a solution for more than 2 billion people worldwide that need energy and clean water on a daily basis. One unit potentially managed by a local women co-op in a Rwandese village can impact up to 300 families (circa 1500 people) providing Tier 1 electricity and sterilized water. They deployed 38 units in 9 Countries (Italy, South Africa, Rwanda, Nigeria, Philippines, Madagascar, US and Colombia) for different segments: humanitarian, household retail, service to industry. These units have operated more than 400,000 working hours.

Currently, there are too many electric vehicles for the number of publicly available charging stations, causing issues for both EV drivers and property managers. TEQ Charging’s power management system moves cumbersome electrical infrastructure to the cloud and queues available power from one vehicle to the next throughout the day, ensuring each car receives its charge by the time requested. By using this system, property managers can install more charging stations without spending a fortune expanding their electrical infrastructure.

Currently, there are too many electric vehicles for the number of publicly available charging stations, causing issues for both EV drivers and property managers. TEQ Charging’s power management system moves cumbersome electrical infrastructure to the cloud and queues available power from one vehicle to the next throughout the day, ensuring each car receives its charge by the time requested. By using this system, property managers can install more charging stations without spending a fortune expanding their electrical infrastructure.

Ecoisme sp. z o.o., founded in 2014 and based in Krakow, Poland, specializes in home energy monitoring solutions. The company has developed a device that detects the energy consumption of various household appliances and provides users with insights into their electricity usage through a mobile application. This system employs a single sensor that connects contactlessly to the fuse box, enabling users to monitor their energy expenditures and identify potential overuse of grid or solar energy. Additionally, Ecoisme notifies homeowners of any impending appliance failures. The company has gained recognition for its innovative technology, having successfully launched an Indiegogo campaign and received the CES Best of Innovations Award. Furthermore, Ecoisme has joined the Edison Electric Institute and is collaborating on pilot projects with notable organizations such as EDF, Virgin Media, and Dubai Energy and Water Authority.

Ecoisme sp. z o.o., founded in 2014 and based in Krakow, Poland, specializes in home energy monitoring solutions. The company has developed a device that detects the energy consumption of various household appliances and provides users with insights into their electricity usage through a mobile application. This system employs a single sensor that connects contactlessly to the fuse box, enabling users to monitor their energy expenditures and identify potential overuse of grid or solar energy. Additionally, Ecoisme notifies homeowners of any impending appliance failures. The company has gained recognition for its innovative technology, having successfully launched an Indiegogo campaign and received the CES Best of Innovations Award. Furthermore, Ecoisme has joined the Edison Electric Institute and is collaborating on pilot projects with notable organizations such as EDF, Virgin Media, and Dubai Energy and Water Authority.

GridCraft, Inc. develops data and collaborative analysis tools to businesses. The company enables users to combine company internal and external data into a working data set, whether structured, semi-structured, or unstructured. It connects to third party and proprietary data sources to pull in live streaming data or scheduled data updates. The company was founded in 2013 and is based in Boulder, Colorado.

Enertiv, Inc. is a digital energy company based in New York that specializes in energy efficiency solutions for the real estate sector and related markets. Founded in 2011, the company focuses on optimizing building operations by transforming data into actionable insights. Enertiv's platform collects and analyzes data from various sources, supplemented by IoT devices, to monitor critical equipment, tenant spaces, and indoor environmental conditions. This comprehensive approach allows property owners and operators to identify inefficiencies and reduce waste in their operating expenses. By streamlining operations and enhancing performance, Enertiv empowers its clients to make informed, data-driven decisions that enhance asset value and improve tenant health.

Power2Switch is a free online resource that helps residents and businesses lower their electric bills by enabling customers to search, switch, and save on electricity supply prices from multiple energy suppliers and also gain access to renewable energy. The site is currently operational in Illinois and Texas, and is launching in other deregulated states in the coming months. Power2Switch technology makes the switching process seamless for the consumer (cutting process time from weeks to hours), automated for the supplier (contract completion is easier online), and provides analytics to increase supplier efficiency in pricing.

MFlux Lighting provides an out-of-the-box solution of portable, cordless, lithium-ion battery powered construction-site lighting. The system is wirelessly controlled and connected with motion sensors, cameras, and remote dimmers.