Climate Tech 360

We are taking a short break ahead of New York Climate Week (NYCW) but stay tuned for some amazing guests in the coming months. If you are attending NYCW and want to connect in person, please message me on LinkedIn or at info@climatetech360.com. 

In this episode, Dr. Staffan Qvist, talks about how to get an edge in science tech due diligence using his expert network, DeepSense. DeepSense is a network of scientists, engineers and industry specialists that provide tailored support for your science tech due diligence. The company helps investors evaluate startups' technical feasibility connecting them with experts in specific fields. The process involves reviewing the startup's materials, engaging experts to assess the technology, and conducting a call with the experts, investors, and startup founders. DeepSense aims to identify gaps or areas that need further clarification in the technology and provide valuable insights to investors. The level of engagement and duration of the process depends on the stage and size of the investment. DeepSense provides deep tech investors with an edge by offering a team of experts to dive deep into the technology being evaluated. This gives investors an extra weapon in their arsenal and allows them to make more informed investment decisions. DeepSense helps ensure that capital is directed to the right technologies, avoiding investments in the wrong things. DeepSense also supports startups in preparing for tech due diligence, helping them structure their data rooms, answer questions, and plug any gaps in their knowledge.TakeawaysDeep Sense helps venture capital investors assess the science and technology risk of startups.They connect investors with experts in specific fields to evaluate the technical feasibility and potential of the technology.The process involves reviewing startup materials, engaging experts for assessment, and conducting a call with experts, investors, and founders.Deep Sense provides valuable insights and identifies areas that need further clarification or investigation. DeepSense provides deep tech investors with a team of experts to dive deep into the technology being evaluated, giving them an edge in making informed investment decisions.The integrated science tech due diligence framework released by DeepSense offers a comprehensive checklist for investors and startups to navigate the tech due diligence process.DeepSense supports startups in preparing for tech due diligence, helping them structure their data rooms, answer questions, and fill knowledge gaps.By working with DeepSense, investors can ensure that capital is directed to the right technologies, avoiding investments in the wrong things.  LinksLink to book a free introductory call with DeepSense here. Report on How to Prepare for Science Tech Due DiligenceJoin the waitlist for their Ripple at the Drop conference here. Link to report Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staffanq/Email us: info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/ 

In this conversation, Martin Kessler, Chief Business Officer at Flowcarbon, discusses the company's role in securing asset-level financing for carbon removal projects. He explains that Flowcarbon is a vertically integrated carbon finance company focused on arranging project finance for carbon removal projects, assisting project developers with carbon credit issuance, and helping buyers procure carbon credits for their net zero goals. Martin emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the carbon markets and the importance of building a strong ecosystem of partners. He also provides insights into the project finance process and highlights the key factors Flowcarbon considers when evaluating projects, such as feedstock availability, revenue streams, and commercial viability. The company aims to demonstrate the viability of carbon removal projects to the private market community. Private credit investors typically get involved in the financing process once the project is at a stage where it is financeable. Flowcarbon helps developers develop financial models, create data rooms of financeable contracts, and secure necessary insurance. They also explore new market opportunities, such as environmental commodities markets and tax credits. TakeawaysFlowcarbon is a vertically integrated carbon finance company that focuses on project finance for carbon removals, carbon credit issuance, and carbon credit sales.The company works with project developers to arrange financing for carbon removal projects and helps them navigate the carbon credit issuance process.Flowcarbon also assists buyers in procuring carbon credits for their net zero goals, primarily targeting corporate clients.The carbon markets require an interdisciplinary approach, and Flow Carbon leverages its network and partnerships to provide comprehensive solutions.The project finance process can take anywhere from six to 18 months, depending on the project's readiness and complexity.Key factors considered when evaluating projects include revenue streams and commercial viability. They work with developers to structure financeable contracts and secure asset-level financing.Private credit investors typically get involved in the financing process once the project is at a stage where it is financeable.Flowcarbon helps developers develop financial models, create data rooms of financeable contracts, and secure necessary insurance.They also explore new market opportunities, such as environmental commodities markets and tax credits. Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-kessler-99518828/Email us: info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

In this conversation, Patrick Flynn discusses the importance of making the business case for sustainability and leveraging the power of companies to drive change. He emphasizes the need for systemic interventions and highlights the role of leading companies in influencing policy and market signaling. Additionally, Patrick addresses the challenge of bridging the gap between the CSO and CFO and suggests that mandatory disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions is bringing these teams closer together. Patrick also talks about his work at Topo Finance, where he focuses on addressing the emissions associated with cash in the hands of banks. He explains how companies can use their influence to demand more sustainable financial products and services. The conversation concludes with a discussion on sustainability superpowers and the importance of translating the language of sustainability to different parts of the business. TakeawaysAlign sustainability goals with the motivations and decision-making processes of the businessLeverage the company's superpowers to drive impactful changeBridge the gap between the CSO and CFO by emphasizing the importance of sustainability in financial reportingCollaborate with other companies and startups to build bridges across the 'valley of death' and accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies Making the business case for sustainability is crucial for driving change within companies.Systemic interventions, such as influencing policy and market signaling, can have a significant impact on climate action.Companies can address emissions associated with cash in the hands of banks by demanding more sustainable financial products and services.Each individual and company has unique strengths that can be leveraged for climate action.Translating the language of sustainability to different parts of the business is essential for gaining buy-in and creating change.Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-flynn-a054405/Email us: info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

The conversation with Jeppe Høier covers various topics related to corporate venture capital (CVC). Jeppe discusses the structure of CVCs, the different types of investments they make, the challenges and benefits of working with CVCs, and the differences between European and US CVCs. The discussion also touches on the lengthy process of engaging with CVCs and provides tips for startups to navigate this process. Overall, the conversation aims to provide insights and understanding of CVCs for startups and investors. In this conversation, Jeppe Høier and Samia discuss the role of corporate venture capital (CVC) in the climate tech industry. They explore how CVCs differ from traditional venture capital firms and the advantages they offer to startups. They also discuss the challenges startups face when seeking investment from CVCs and provide advice on how to navigate the landscape. Additionally, they touch on the changing landscape of CVCs and the importance of building relationships with corporates. TakeawaysCorporate venture capital (CVC) is an important player in the startup ecosystem, with corporates having a significant role to play in the energy transition and climate tech.The structure of CVCs can vary, with different decision-making processes and strategic goals. Some CVCs invest for return purposes, while others invest with the goal of potential acquisition.Engaging with CVCs can be a lengthy process due to the bureaucratic nature of large corporations. Startups need to understand the decision structure and process of the CVC they are working with.Information flow and communication between startups and CVCs can be challenging, but it is crucial for successful collaboration. Startups should consider limiting access to information rights and keeping ownership below 5% to protect their interests.European CVCs are still developing and may not have the same level of maturity and experience as their US counterparts. However, the European startup ecosystem is growing, and more success stories are emerging. Startups should seek value creation from CVCs beyond just financial investment, such as access to assets, brands, customers, data, and expertise.When looking for investment from a CVC, startups should understand the specific value they are seeking and target CVCs that align with their industry and goals.CVCs can provide startups with revenue opportunities, cost savings, and access to their network and resources.Startups should conduct due diligence on CVCs and seek references from other portfolio companies to understand the value they can bring.The CVC landscape is constantly evolving, and there is a need for more deep tech investors in the climate tech space.Corporates can also play a role as limited partners (LPs) in venture funds, but it may take longer to raise capital from them.Building relationships and understanding the decision-making structure within corporates is essential for successful collaboration with CVCs. LinksCorporate venturing newsletterResearch: The Lifecycle of Corporate Venture Capital Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeppehoier/Email us: info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/

Susana Lopez discusses her journey into clean tech and the importance of infrastructure development in emerging markets. She shares her experiences in working with private equity funds and the challenges of aligning the goals of different investors. She also explains the concept of blended finance and how it can be used to finance infrastructure projects. The conversation highlights the need for sustainable and impactful infrastructure development considering social and environmental factors. Early engagement and mitigation of negative impacts are key in infrastructure projects. Sometimes projects are successful when developers are willing to address environmental and social issues and work closely with investors. However, there are challenges in funding first-of-a-kind projects and attracting infrastructure funds to emerging markets. Blended finance and green hedging instruments can help mitigate risks and attract more capital to these markets. The goal is to develop infrastructure at scale and pace to meet the needs of developing economies. TakeawaysInfrastructure development is crucial for economic and social development in emerging markets.Blended finance, which combines public, private, and philanthropic capital, can finance infrastructure projects.Aligning the goals of different investors, such as impact-focused donors and return-focused private investors, can be challenging.Sustainable infrastructure development requires considering both social and environmental factors.Patient capital and long-term investment horizons are needed to support infrastructure projects. Early engagement and mitigation of negative impacts are crucial in infrastructure projects.Successful projects require developers to address environmental and social issues and work closely with investors.Funding first-of-a-kind projects and attracting infrastructure funds to emerging markets are challenges that must be addressed.Blended finance and green hedging instruments can help mitigate risks and attract more capital to emerging markets.The goal is to develop infrastructure at scale and pace to meet the needs of developing economies.Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanalopezlopez/Email us: info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

Aira is a one-stop shop for heat pumps, providing installation, maintenance, and financing solutions. They have a vertically integrated model and have their own installation and sales force. They also offer a comfort guarantee and focus on customer service. Heat pumps are more efficient, saving customers 40% on heating costs and reducing carbon emissions by 75%. Aira has acquired heat pump installation providers in each of their three initial markets: Germany, Italy, and the UK, and has plans to expand into other markets in Europe. Aira's heat pumps come with solid connectivity and control features, allowing for remote monitoring and diagnosis of issues. They also have an integrated app for customers to monitor their energy usage and savings. Aira's success can be attributed to its focus on commercialization and scaling, as well as its strong team and support from the Vargas umbrella. Aira has also recently secured a €200 million debt facility specifically for heat pump securitization, the first of its kind. They offer a monthly payment model for heat pumps, removing the upfront cost for customers. The company's affiliation with Vargas, a leading climate tech investor, provides credibility and access to expertise and contacts. Aira is focused on disrupting the heat pump industry by offering innovative and customer-friendly products. TakeawaysAira offers subsidies and financing solutions to make heat pumps more affordable for consumers.They have a vertically integrated model and provide installation, maintenance, and financing solutions.Aira has acquired heat pump installation providers in Germany, Italy, and the UK and plans to expand into other markets in Europe.Their heat pumps come with solid connectivity and control features, allowing for remote monitoring and diagnosis of issues. Aira has raised €145 million in a Series B funding round to make clean energy tech affordable and accessible.They offer a monthly payment model for heat pumps, removing the upfront cost for customers.Aira has secured a €200 million debt facility specifically for heat pump securitization, the first of its kind.Their affiliation with Vargas provides credibility and access to expertise and contacts.Aira aims to disrupt the heat pump industry by offering innovative and customer-friendly products. Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anelauny/Email us:  info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

Lara Pierpoint, an expert in climate technology financing, discusses the Trellis climate program by Prime Coalition. She highlights how this initiative provides catalytic capital to bridge the crucial gap between early-stage funding and larger infrastructure investments. Lara delves into the challenges of aligning philanthropic and private capital interests, emphasizing the importance of a long-term vision for climate tech startups. She also discusses the complexities of securing financing and the proactive strategies needed to navigate these hurdles successfully.

This conversation with Nolan Lindquist at the Center for Active Stewardship (CAS) covers various topics, including CAS’s focus of  CAS on climate transition risk and the limitations of using emissions as a universal metric. The conversation emphasizes the importance of fundamental analysis and developing a real rapport with companies to navigate the complex process of decarbonization. The discussion also introduces a tool called Splice, which provides a visualization of a company’s emissions. The conversation delves into the different types of emissions and the significance of trading activities. It highlights the importance of transparency in understanding the quality and cost of emissions reductions. The conversation concludes by discussing the transition from ESG 1.0 to ESG 2.0, focusing on activity-centric reporting and the need to align disclosures with long-term value creation. TakeawaysThe Center for Active Stewardship focuses on climate transition risks and aims to redirect corporate investment towards net zero by finding win-win opportunities that drive shareholder value.Emissions may not be the best metric for measuring financial materiality of climate change, especially for industries with low energy intensity and high reliance on grid electricity.For many companies, decarbonization will likely be a passive process as utilities shift away from fossil fuels to renewables.The decarbonization of hard-to-decarbonize industries, such as steel and cement, requires radical shifts in production processes and significant government support. Active management is crucial in addressing strategic dilemmas related to ESG issues.Transparency is key in understanding the quality and cost of emissions reductions.The transition from ESG 1.0 to ESG 2.0 involves activity-centric reporting and aligning disclosures with long-term value creation. LinksFT: The cast against carbon emissions as a universal metricSplice: Center for Active StewardshipResearch: State of Play: Proxy Season 2024 Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nolanlindquist/Email us:  info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaq/

SummaryThis conversation with James Vaccaro discusses the work of the Climate Safe Lending Network, a multi-stakeholder network focused on accelerating the transition to a sustainable economy. The network brings together banks, investors, NGOs, regulators, and academia to share knowledge, provoke thought, and drive change in the banking sector. James highlights the importance of understanding the emissions generated by a company's banking practices, particularly the financing of fossil fuel industries. He emphasizes the need for companies to engage with their financial partners and demand a shift towards greener investments. He also discusses the role of universities and large corporates in leading the movement towards sustainable finance. The conversation explores the role of banks in the transition to a sustainable economy and the challenges they face. It discusses the need for banks to restrict capital to fossil fuel companies and transition to greener alternatives. It highlights the importance of regulatory action and government intervention to drive change. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in the transition, emphasizing that not all solutions require high-tech interventions. It concludes with a discussion on the potential of fintech and challenger banks to accelerate the transformation of the financial supply chain.              Takeaways The Climate Safe Lending Network is a multi-stakeholder network focused on accelerating the transition to a sustainable economy.Companies need to understand the emissions generated by their banking practices, particularly the financing of fossil fuel industries.Universities and large corporations have the power to lead the movement towards sustainable finance. Banks need to restrict capital to fossil fuel companies and transition to greener alternatives.Regulatory action and government intervention are crucial to drive the transition.Not all solutions require high-tech interventions; simple changes in behavior and practices can have a significant impact.Fintech and challenger banks have a role to play in accelerating the transformation of the financial supply chain. LinksThe Carbon Bankroll 1.0The Carbon Bankroll 2.0 Contact UsGuest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-vaccaro/Email us: info@climatetech360.comHost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samiaqader/