Rune Theill: “we want to support renewable energy solutions and help build a sustainable system” (source: Rockstart)
Offshore wind developer Ørsted has teamed up Rockstart to support innovations in the renewable energy industry
Rockstart, an early stage investor focusing on energy, agrifood and emerging technologies, will identify and accelerate innovative start-ups with solutions for renewable energy. Its goal is to pilot their technology and mature it for scaling across the industry.
“We will launch an accelerator programme focused on energy system integration as part of Ørsted’s new Innovation Hub in The Netherlands,” said Rockstart.
“The Innovation Hub and a ventures and open innovation team will connect the regional innovation ecosystem with Ørsted’s industry leading expertise and resources.”
Rockstart chief executive and co-founder Rune Theill said, “Ørsted is a leader in the transition to clean energy.
“By partnering with Ørsted we aim to empower more purpose-driven founders to develop renewable energy solutions and build a sustainable and resilient energy system.
“We believe this partnership is a great opportunity for start-ups to fast-track their solutions by having them tested and ready for commercial use.”
Ørsted SVP and head of continental Europe Rasmus Errboe said, “Innovation is crucial in the energy transition. It has been the key to the success of the offshore wind industry in Europe.
“We are confident that together with Rockstart we can support promising systems integration initiatives.”
Rockstart has run more than 30 programmes dedicated to start-ups in tech, energy and agrifood since it was founded in 2011.
To date, Rockstart has leveraged an international network of investors, mentors, experts and corporate partners to support more than 260 ventures, who have raised more than €150M in funding.
