Why Apply?

Jumpstart your technology with Free Electrons

The program includes a series of modules held across the globe (physically and digitally), where startups work closely with The Utility Partners, local accelerators and mentors to refine their company’s solution and explore options to jumpstart their solution’s growth.

Each module is structured to facilitate ongoing conversations between startups and utilities to refine value propositions, seed pilot projects, and explore investment opportunities.

Free Electrons offers the chance for startups to:

  • Test Solutions

    Test your solution and identify product market fit with experts and mentors in the energy sector

  • Gain Insight

    Receive training & support, and attend sponsored travel events throughout the program

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Tackling the World’s Energy Problems

We envision a future where smart, clean and accessible energy will transform every aspect of our lives and we’d like to join forces with startups to make this happen.

Free Electrons aims to address specific key challenges in the energy sector:

  • Next Generation Renewables iconNext Generation Renewables
  • Energy management and data iconEnergy Management/Data
  • Asset Optimisation iconAsset Optimisation
  • Thermal Solutions iconThermal Solutions
  • Grid Planning, Optimisation and Stability iconGrid Planning, Optimisation and Stability
  • Energy Storage iconEnergy Storage
  • Connected and Engaged Customers iconConnected & Engaged Customers (B2B and B2C)
  • Mobility and Transport iconMobility & Transport Electrification
  • Other iconOther

Ecosystem Partners

Free Electrons collaborates with a diverse range of ecosystem partners. Our network includes leading innovation agencies and research institutions across various geographies, all working to create solutions for the future.

  • Dena Energy

Here to Support Startups

For specific questions on the application process, see our FAQs page or contact us directly.

“
Free Electrons provides an invaluable platform and network at virtually no cost. Unlike many similar programs, it doesn’t demand equity, making it accessible to startups regardless of ownership structure or funding stage. I can’t think of another program with a comparable global impact on companies like ours.

Fabian Krek

Regional Head - Europe,
Secure Switzerland AG
“
One of the underestimated benefits of Free Electrons is the opportunity to learn from fellow startups. Through candid conversations, we’ve gained valuable insights on scaling, problem-solving, and new ways to approach challenges. Connecting with peers who have successfully scaled their teams has given us a wealth of ideas to take home.

Christopher Jackson

Co-Founder,
 Advanced Infrastructure
“
Understanding the needs of your potential partners is crucial, and Free Electrons provides a unique opportunity to gain deep insights into how energy utilities operate. Even if a partnership isn’t an immediate fit, the learnings from these interactions are invaluable for future growth. If your solution aligns with grid technologies, energy generation, or energy efficiency, there’s no better program to connect with global utilities and explore real-world applications.

Trygve Mongstad

Founder and CEO,
Over Easy Solar
“
One of the biggest takeaways from Free Electrons is understanding how diverse utility companies are, their needs, geographies, and ways of operating. Learning how to align our business with utilities and cater to their requirements has been invaluable. I’ll be bringing these insights back to our team to replicate success with utilities worldwide. Startups should pay close attention to the reverse pitch at the beginning, it’s key to understanding how to work effectively with energy utilities.

Peyvand Melati

CEO,
QEA Tech
“
Free Electrons has been a transformative journey for us. Collaborating with utilities helped us expand our product significantly, shaping it to better meet industry needs. The program provided invaluable opportunities to engage with major utilities, understand their requirements, and refine our approach to partnerships. For startups considering Free Electrons, my advice is simple; take the time to truly understand utility challenges and tailor your solution accordingly. The relationships and insights gained here can elevate your product and open doors to long-term success.

Laura Laringe

CEO and Co-Founder,
reLi Energy
“
Free Electrons provided us with a global network of utility partners, helping us expand our connections beyond our existing markets. Engaging with utilities from different regions gave us valuable insights into how challenges vary across geographies and how to refine our business model accordingly. For startups considering Free Electrons, my advice is simple; if you're looking to connect with utilities and run pilots, this is the right place. Just ensure your product is ready for real-world deployment.

Talieh Zargar

CTO and Co-Founder,
GridWrap
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