Equinor selects new class of start-ups to shape the future of energy
Norwegian energy giant Equinor has selected a new class of start-ups to work on unlocking opportunities within oil and gas, renewables, and low-carbon solutions.
This year, the Equinor & Techstars Energy Accelerator will be entirely virtual. Ten selected start-ups will receive support by over one hundred mentors during the program, Equinor said on the 27th January.
Ten start-ups have been selected from hundreds of applicants across 44 countries. Through a 13-week programme, they will seek to accelerate their development as they tap into a global network of experts and resources from Equinor, Kongsberg, Capgemini and Techstars.
According to Equinor, the selected start-ups represent some of the most exciting ideas within the energy sector.
As explained by the Norwegian energy giant, the companies are trying to increase safety at sea, improve oil production with lower CO2 footprint and produce hydrogen more efficiently. And do wind turbines really need blades?
Gareth Burns, Equinor’s vice president for Equinor Ventures, said: ‘‘We believe working together with start-ups which push barriers within technology and innovation is fundamental to shape the future of energy.
“Following the success of our previous accelerator programmes, we are excited to have a new class of innovative start-ups to unlock opportunities within oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions”.
This year the accelerator will be held digitally. Over one hundred mentors will contribute with experience and the opportunity to create networks.
The programme starts on 15 February and finishes on 11 May with a Demo Day. Here, the start-ups will present their solutions to Equinor, the partners, and other potential investors.
Christian Møller, chief technology officer in Kongsberg Digital, said: “If industry players, from large to small, cooperate and nourish each other’s experience and technology, it will be substantially easier to solve the challenges faced by the energy industry.
“Through Techstars we can share our knowledge and experience alongside ambitious entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs who have identified new opportunities and use their unique skill set to tackle major challenges”.
Elin Skauge, vice president, Innovation & Strategy for Capgemini Invent, commented: “The Equinor & Techstars Energy Accelerator gives us the opportunity to develop new ideas which can change the industry through new innovations, technology and more sustainable solutions”.
Source: Offshore Energy Today