Target Information

Orus Energy, founded in 2023, is a pioneering energy flexibility platform based in Paris. The company has developed a demand-side flexibility platform designed for commercial building operators, allowing them to shift energy consumption automatically during peak energy times. Within just eight months of launching its product, Orus Energy has registered over one million square meters of real estate on its platform and has successfully deployed its solutions in prominent client buildings, including those of IKEA and La Poste Immobilier.

Industry Overview in France

France's energy sector is undergoing a significant transformation characterized by the rising integration of renewable energies and the growing electrification of various sectors, including electric vehicles and heat pumps. As these dynamics add pressure on the power grid, the necessity for demand-side flexibility has become increasingly critical. The challenge lies in balancing energy production and consumption, particularly during peak demand periods.

In 2022, demand-side flexibility in France generated approximately EUR 1.3 billion, predominantly within the industrial sector. However, this approach has reached its limits, prompting a shift towards commercial buildings, which account for over a third of peak electricity consumption, as they present vast opportunities for scalable flexibility. By optimizing power usage in commercial spaces, we can enhance the resilience of the energy grid.

Orus Energy's founders recognized this potential and have created a platform that not only allows for smarter electricity consumption but also contributes to the decarbonization of power grids. By leveraging the thermal inertia of buildings, the platform enables compliance with grid demands while also ensuring occupant comfort.

Rationale Behind the Deal

This EUR 2.2 million pre-seed funding round, co-led by b2venture and Asterion Ventures, aims to accelerate Orus Energy's product deployment and development. The investment will also facilitate the expansion of the core team to address the growing demand for their innovative energy solutions. By empowering building operators to request payment for their flexible energy consumption, Orus Energy promotes a sustainable approach to energy management.

Information About the Investor

b2venture is a prominent venture capital firm focused on backing sustainable technologies, while Asterion Ventures is a leading impact fund in France, recognized for investing in ventures with significant societal impact. The participation of Ring Capital and various industry-specific angel investors, such as Pierre Trémolières and Myriam Maestroni, highlights the strategic interest in Orus Energy's mission to reshape energy consumption patterns.

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This funding round appears to be a strong investment opportunity given Orus Energy's alignment with the ongoing energy transition and the anticipated growth in demand-side flexibility markets. The founders' prior successes and their innovative approach to using buildings as thermal batteries set a solid foundation for future scalability. With more than a million square meters of real estate already registered, the company's traction is promising.

Moreover, the shift towards a more resilient energy system, especially in France, creates an opportune environment for Orus Energy's offering. Their technology not only helps to alleviate grid strain but also promotes economic, environmental, and civic impacts, making them a valuable player in the energy market.

As the demand for flexible energy solutions increases, Orus Energy's innovative platform positions them well to capture a significant share of the commercial real estate sector. If they successfully execute their planned product enhancements and workforce expansion, the potential for substantial market penetration and influence on energy consumption patterns is considerable.

Overall, investing in Orus Energy presents a compelling opportunity, as their operational model addresses critical challenges in the energy landscape while actively contributing to a decarbonized future.

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