Climate CEOs (formerly Entrepreneurs for Impact): Scaling Climate Tech Startups

Reduce A/C Energy by 40%: MIT Spinout + Top Climate Tech VC Investors

Aug 25, 2025
Guest
Sorin Grama
In this engaging conversation, Sorin Grama, the CEO and co-founder of Transaera and an MIT-trained engineer, dives into innovative air conditioning solutions. He discusses how metal-organic frameworks can cut HVAC energy use by 40%, promoting sustainability. Sorin reflects on past experiences, including developing refrigeration for rural Indian farmers, and sheds light on the increasing demand for efficient cooling solutions amid climate change. His insights on leadership and community collaboration in the climate tech arena are truly inspiring.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Humidity Is The Hidden Cooling Problem

  • Addressing humidity first can drastically improve perceived comfort and reduce cooling load.
  • Removing moisture before cooling lets air conditioners run far more efficiently in humid climates.
INSIGHT

MOFs Enable Practical Desiccant Cooling

  • Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) act like molecular sponges that absorb water efficiently.
  • Their low binding energy lets you release moisture with little heat, enabling practical dehumidification.
ANECDOTE

Founding Through An MIT Connection

  • Sorin met MIT professor Mircea Dinca while at MIT and bonded over shared Romanian roots.
  • They combined Mircea's MOF research with Sorin's cooling experience to found Transera.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app