The realm of solar energy is continuously evolving, driven by rapid technological advancements and the ever-increasing urgency of addressing climate change. The dynamic nature of the renewable energy landscape requires constant innovation and vigilance, making solar energy a top priority for governments, businesses, and individuals worldwide.
Across Europe, innovative startups are leading this transformation, introducing cutting-edge solutions that redefine how we approach solar energy. These emerging companies are not just providers of new tools but are crucial in setting new standards for harnessing the sun’s power to create a sustainable future.
For this article, we explored this dynamic sector to curate a list of 10 promising startups driving solar energy innovation and contributing to a greener planet. From Berlin to Milan, and from London to Oslo, these startups are leveraging advanced technologies and innovative business models to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of solar energy.
AMPYR Solar Europe: Based in London, AMPYR Solar Europe accelerates the expansion of solar capacity and provides appealing investment options for institutional investors. They handle all stages of solar project development, including land acquisition, construction, and EPC management. They aim to provide sustainable, long-term renewable energy solutions while ensuring minimal environmental impact and supporting local communities’ zero-carbon goals. Founded in 2021, the company has raised €200 million to support the energy transition with scalable solar solutions.
Enode: Oslo-based Enode connects and optimizes energy devices through its APIs, enabling seamless integration of EVs, solar inverters, home batteries, and thermostats. Their APIs allow instant connection and optimization of energy devices, saving months of integration work. Founded in 2020, Enode has raised €15.9 million helping create user-centric energy apps that drive engagement and support sustainable energy transitions, making solar energy management easier and more efficient.
Enpal: Berlin-based Enpal is revolutionizing the photovoltaics industry with a leasing model that provides solar power systems to customers, reducing their electricity expenditure. They offer solar systems, storage units, and wall boxes, enabling homeowners to become independent of electricity companies and reduce costs. With over 65,000 satisfied customers, Enpal ensures TÜV-certified customer satisfaction and promises installation within six weeks. Founded in 2017, they have raised over €3,2 billion in funding, reflecting its significant impact on digitizing the solar industry.
GridServe: Based in Iver, GridServe tech-enabled sustainable energy business focused on delivering net zero carbon energy and combating climate change. They offer a “Sun-to-Wheel” ecosystem with advanced solar + battery farms and an EV charging network. Since its founding in 2016, GridServe has raised over €1 billion, positioning itself as a leader in providing world-class solar energy solutions.
NexWafe: Based in Freiburg, Germany, NexWafe develops ultra-thin high-efficiency, low-cost photovoltaic solar wafers, enabling better performance and lower carbon emissions in PV manufacturing. They prioritise breakthrough innovation, customer-centric solutions, and excellence, aiming to shape the future of clean energy. Founded in 2015, NexWafe has raised €95 million to make solar energy more affordable and accessible.
Sono Motors: Munich-based Sono Motors integrates solar panels into third-party vehicles, including buses, refrigerated trucks, recreational vehicles, and passenger cars. Their Solar Bus Kit and Solar Dashboard reduce fuel consumption and emissions. They collaborate with automotive OEMs to extend vehicle range and reduce costs. Founded in 2016, they have raised €117.6 million, aiming to make every vehicle solar and promote a world without fossil fuels.
Sunprime: Milan’s Sunprime, redevelops industrial and agricultural properties to create photovoltaic systems, generating distributed solar energy where it’s needed. They focus on the entire project lifecycle, including asbestos removal and enhancing solar roofs and land. Sunprime invests in energy storage systems to support Italy’s energy transition. Founded in 2020, they have raised €222.5 million aiming to create shared value through renewable energy production.
Sunswap: Leatherhead-based Sunswap aims to decarbonize the cold chain with its electric, battery, and solar-powered transport refrigeration unit, Sunswap Endurance. Their technology helps logistics firms and food retailers eliminate emissions, reduce costs, and achieve sustainable zero-carbon supply chains. Founded in 2020, Sunswap has raised €12.8 million to help companies reduce diesel pollution and costs, supporting the decarbonisation of transportation.
Sunvigo: Cologne’s Sunvigo provides premium solar systems with no upfront costs through a flexible instalment plan. Their app allows users to monitor and optimise energy consumption automatically. Founded in 2020, Sunvigo has raised €53 million to make solar energy more accessible and economically viable for households. They also offer a comprehensive safety package with troubleshooting, all-risk insurance, remote monitoring, and automatic updates.
zolar: This Berlin-based provides premium solar solutions, including planning, installation, and flexible payment options for residential solar systems. Their services aim to help customers save on electricity costs and contribute to a greener environment by generating their own solar power. Founded in 2016, zolar has raised €259 million and aims to install a PV system on every roof, helping households become energy-independent and contribute to climate protection.
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