Airthium

Airthium

Early Stage

100x cheaper battery to stop Climate Change

100x cheaper battery to stop Climate Change

Overview

Raised to Date: Raised: $2,682,049

Total Commitments ($USD)

Platform

Wefunder

Start Date

07/21/2022

Close Date

10/26/2023

Min. Goal
$50,000
Max. Goal
$5,000,000
Min. Investment

$250

Security Type

SAFE

Series

Seed

SEC Filing Type

RegCF    Open SEC Filing

Valuation Cap

$20,000,000

Discount

0%

Rolling Commitments ($USD)

Status
Funded
Reporting Date

10/30/2023

Days Remaining
Funded
% of Min. Goal
Funded
% of Max. Goal
Funded
Likelihood of Max
Funded
Avg. Daily Raise

$5,818

# of Investors

2,719

Momentum
Funded
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Year Founded

2017

Industry

Energy, Power, & Natural Resources

Tech Sector

Cleantech

Distribution Model

B2B

Margin

Medium

Capital Intensity

High

Location

Wilmington, Delaware

Business Type

Growth

Airthium, with a valuation of $20 million, is raising funds on Wefunder. The company has designed a heat pump that can convert heat to electricity and electricity to heat up to 1,000 Fahrenheit. Airthium's heat pump will be able to replace and be cheaper than gas in industrial heat applications. Airthium can also use its heat pump to convert renewable electricity to heat and store it in molten salt. This would be an efficient long-duration storage on wind and solar farms that could allow the use of clean electricity at night and in the winter. Airthium's heat engine that can dramatically cut carbon dioxide emissions and pollution in industrial applications and on the grid. Andrei Klochko and Franck Lahaye founded Airthium in 2017. The current crowdfunding campaign has a minimum target of $50,000 and a maximum target of $5,000,000. The campaign proceeds will be used for payroll, contractors, equipment, lab and office space, and administrative expenses.

Summary Profit and Loss Statement

Most Recent Year Prior Year

Revenue

$365,549

$230,796

COGS

$0

$0

Tax

$-336,103

$-157,945

 

 

Net Income

$-830,966

$-830,966

Summary Balance Sheet

Most Recent Year Prior Year

Cash

$309,071

$947,199

Accounts Receivable

$0

$6,256

Total Assets

$2,167,296

$2,167,296

Short-Term Debt

$296,316

$106,131

Long-Term Debt

$3,820,122

$2,133,776

Total Liabilities

$4,116,438

$2,239,907

Financials as of: 07/21/2022
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Raise History

Offering Name Close Date Platform Valuation/Cap Total Raised Security Type Status Reg Type
Airthium 10/25/2023 Wefunder $20,000,000 $2,682,049 SAFE Funded RegCF
Airthium 04/29/2021 Wefunder $17,000,000 $1,307,736 SAFE Funded RegCF
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Price per Share History

Note: Share prices shown in earlier rounds may not be indicative of any stock splits.

Valuation History

Revenue History

Note: Revenue data points reflect the latest of either the most recent fiscal year's financials, or updated revenues directly from the founder, at each raise's close date.

Employee History

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Ratings KingsCrowd Startup Rating Methodology Article

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Analyst Report Analyst Report Methodology Article

Climate change is both one of the biggest threats humanity has ever faced and the biggest business opportunity of the century. The rapid pace of climate change endangers our ability to adapt to our changing environment. Its ultimate severity will depend on our ability to quickly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Airthium is developing a heat pump and energy storage solution that could be transformative in the fight against climate change.

Founder Profile

Airthium Founder Andrei Klochko on Replacing Fossil Fuel

Industrial buildings venting sky-high plumes of smoke are the epitome of air pollution. Many of them still rely on fossil fuels, one of the greatest culprits of climate change. But like Hawaii, which recently shut down its last coal-fired power plant, some want to change for the greener.



Airthium is assisting with a low-cost, zero-emission heat pump for industrial use and electric power generation. The company also plans to use its heat pump for long-term energy storage, making renewable energy a more viable power option. We reached out to co-founder and CEO Andrei Klochko to learn how Airthium’s solution can compete against fossil fuel prices and help prevent carbon emissions.



Note: This interview was conducted over phone and email. It has been lightly edited for clarity and length.


Read Founder Interview

Analyst Report

Synopsis

Renewable energy is a rapidly growing industry. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, renewable energy could supply 86% of global power demand by 2050. However, renewable energy like wind and solar power are unreliable. They vary depending on the time of the day and the season of the year. It is complicated to produce reliable electricity based solely on solar and wind energy without proper storage. But current storage solutions are expensive and insufficient. Most batteries can only keep energy for a few days and are not suitable for long-term or seasonal storage.

Airthium, a Y Combinator-backed startup, is developing a heat pump that can transform electricity to heat and heat to electricity. This technology can replace fossil fuels burned for industrial heat, which represents a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Even better, Airthium's heat pump is cheaper to use than natural gas. The technology can provide heat for many industries and applications, from paper creation to food drying.

Airthium also overcomes the energy storage hurdle by storing heat in molten salt or sand for several months. When electricity is needed, Airthium's heat pump can convert that stored heat into electricity and feed the grid. In this way, Airthium can help decarbonize electricity production by allowing for more reliable use of renewable energy sources.

Airthium's current Wefunder raise has been rated a Deal to Watch by the KingsCrowd investment team. 

Next Section: Price

Price

Airthium is raising funds on Wefunder at a valuation of $20 million. The company has developed a breakthrough heat pump technology that can convert heat to electricity and vice versa at temperatures up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the energy industry by providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for industrial heat applications and long-duration energy storage.

Airthium's heat pump can replace fossil fuels, such as natural gas, in industrial processes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. The technology also enables the conversion of renewable electricity into heat, which can be stored in molten salt for extended periods. This long-duration storage capability addresses the intermittent nature of wind and solar power, allowing for reliable and consistent energy supply even during periods of low renewable generation.

With several national awards and a partnership with McCain, a large Canadian food company, Airthium is gaining recognition and traction in the market. The company's collaboration with McCain to install a 100-kilowatt heat pump pilot at its Bethune plant in France further validates the potential of Airthium's technology.

Although Airthium is still in the early stage of development, its innovative solution and strong market potential make it an attractive investment opportunity. However, investors should be aware that the current valuation of $20 million may be considered high given the company's early stage and limited revenue track record. As with any early-stage investment, there are inherent risks, including technological challenges, market adoption, and competition.

Overall, Airthium's groundbreaking heat pump technology and its potential to disrupt the energy industry make it an intriguing investment opportunity. However, investors should carefully evaluate the risks and consider the company's progress in commercialization and market adoption before making an investment decision.

Next Section: Market

Market

Airthium operates in the energy industry, specifically targeting the industrial heat market and the energy storage market. These are two extremely large markets with significant growth potential. The global industrial heating equipment market was valued at $36.8 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.8% from 2021 to 2028. Airthium aims to replace fossil fuels burned for industrial heat by developing a heat pump that can transform electricity to heat and heat to electricity. This innovative solution has the potential to disrupt the traditional methods of industrial heating and provide a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative.

The global energy storage market is another addressable market for Airthium. According to Mordor Intelligence, the energy storage market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 19.9% from 2022 to 2027. Airthium's long-duration battery technology has the potential to enable a 100% renewable energy world by storing energy generated from solar and wind sources. This solution not only addresses the growing demand for energy storage but also contributes to the transition towards a more sustainable energy system.

Climate change is a significant driver in these markets. The urgency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change has created a strong demand for clean and sustainable energy solutions. Airthium's focus on renewable energy and its ability to replace fossil fuels align with the market trends and drivers in the energy industry.

Overall, Airthium operates in two large and growing markets with high market potential. Its innovative solutions and focus on sustainability position the company well to capture market share and contribute to the global transition towards clean energy.

Next Section: Team

Team

Airthium was founded by CEO Andrei Klochko and COO Franck Lahaye. Klochko worked as a project manager at a renewable energy company. He holds a master's degree in physics and a PhD in plasma and high-temperature physics from Ecole Polytechnique, an Ivy League French university. Lahaye also brings valuable experience to the team, with a background in sales and project coordination. He previously worked at a leading energy storage company and holds a master's degree in entrepreneurship form the ICN Business School.

The founders' complementary skills and dedication to the company's mission are evident in their commitment to building a sustainable future powered by renewable energy. Airthium's product offering, a heat pump that can convert heat to electricity and vice versa, has the potential to revolutionize the energy industry by replacing fossil fuels with clean and efficient alternatives. The company has already gained recognition and support from notable investors, including Y Combinator and Petit Poucet.

The company's participation in the Y Combinator accelerator program further demonstrates its potential for success. With a strong leadership team and a clear focus on addressing the global energy storage market, Airthium is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the industry.

Overall, Airthium's founders and team members possess the necessary expertise and passion to drive the company's growth and achieve its mission of enabling a 100% renewable energy world. Their dedication, combined with the innovative nature of their product offering, makes Airthium an exciting prospect for investors in the early stages of development.

Next Section: Differentiation

Differentiation

Airthium is positioning itself as a disruptive player in the energy industry with its innovative heat pump technology. The company aims to enable a world powered solely by renewable energy sources, making it cheaper than traditional fossil fuels. Airthium's heat pump has the capability to convert heat to electricity and vice versa, with a temperature range of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This technology has the potential to replace gas in industrial heat applications, offering a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.

One of Airthium's key differentiators is its ability to store heat in molten salt or sand for several months, providing a long-duration storage solution for renewable energy sources such as wind and solar farms. This addresses the challenge of the intermittent nature of wind and solar power, allowing for reliable electricity production even during periods of low generation. By converting stored heat into electricity when needed, Airthium can contribute to decarbonizing electricity production and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Currently, Airthium is in the early stages of development, with a room temperature prototype already in place and plans to build a 550-degree Celsius prototype by 2023. The company has not disclosed any partnerships or direct competitors in the market. However, it is worth noting that the barriers to entry in the energy industry are high, which could limit the number of competitors in this space.

Airthium's technology has the potential to disrupt the energy storage market by providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for long-duration storage. The company's differentiation level in terms of quality and price is high, as it offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels at a competitive cost. While Airthium has not yet secured paying customers, its potential impact on the energy industry and its innovative approach make it an intriguing player to watch in the market.

Next Section: Performance

Performance

Airthium has made significant progress in its product development and has achieved notable milestones. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding with McCain, a large Canadian food company, to install a 100-kilowatt heat pump pilot at one of McCain's plants in France in late 2024. This partnership demonstrates the potential for Airthium's technology to be adopted by major industry players. Additionally, Airthium has released a calculator to help future partners understand the applications and benefits of its technology, indicating a proactive approach to marketing and customer acquisition.

Airthium has also received recognition for its innovative solutions, winning several national awards including the Prix Gérondeau by Zodiac Aerospace and the Prix des Innovateurs by ArcelorMittal. These awards validate the company's technological advancements and market potential.

In terms of product development, Airthium has made good progress. The company currently has a room temperature prototype and is in the process of building its first 550°C (1022°F) prototype, which is expected to be completed in 2023. This indicates that Airthium is advancing towards its goal of developing a high-temperature heat pump, which has the potential to revolutionize the energy industry.

Financially, Airthium has raised a total of $2.25 million in prior funding rounds, demonstrating investor confidence in the company's potential. The company had $309,071 in cash and cash equivalents at the end of its most recent fiscal year, providing a solid financial foundation for further development and growth.

While Airthium has not yet generated revenue, it has identified a significant addressable market in global energy storage. The company's technology offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for storing heat and converting it into electricity, which could help decarbonize electricity production and enable the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources. Airthium's primary revenue model is transactional, and it also has the potential for recurring revenue through long-term partnerships and contracts.

Overall, Airthium has made significant progress in its product development and has established partnerships and recognition within the industry. The company's innovative technology and potential to disrupt the energy market position it for future success.

Next Section: Risk

Risk

Investing in Airthium is considered highly risky due to the early stage of its technology and prototype development. The company's heat pump is still in the early prototype stage and has only been tested at a small scale in cold settings. This means that the technology has not been tested in realistic conditions, and there is a possibility that it may not work as intended. Airthium acknowledges that certain technical aspects of the heat pump are still theoretical and need to be tested. As a result, investing in Airthium at this stage carries significant risks.

Even if Airthium successfully develops its heat pump, there are additional challenges in bringing a new and highly technical product to the market. Potential clients may be hesitant to adopt a novel technology and may face unforeseen problems when using the product in real-world applications. Airthium will need to educate and gain the trust of its clients, which can be a challenging task.

Furthermore, Airthium's financials and funding situation pose risks. The company has limited cash on hand and has been burning cash at a significant rate. Airthium will require substantial capital to continue development and testing of its heat pump. The long time required to build the product and the need for scaling production and sales also present financial challenges.

Additionally, Airthium operates in a highly competitive market, although it is described as slightly competitive. It faces indirect competition from companies like Heaten. Barriers to entry in the energy storage industry are high, and Airthium will need to differentiate itself and overcome competition to succeed.

Investing in Airthium at this stage is considered highly speculative and carries substantial risks. The technology is still in its early stages, and there are uncertainties surrounding its functionality and market acceptance. Prospective investors should carefully evaluate these risks before considering an investment in Airthium.

Next Section: Bullish Outlook

Bullish Outlook

Airthium is positioned to disrupt the energy storage industry with its innovative heat pump technology. By developing a heat pump that can convert heat to electricity and vice versa, Airthium offers a cost-effective solution to the challenges of renewable energy storage. The company's technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we generate and store electricity, making 100% renewable energy a viable and affordable option.

The heat pump's ability to convert and store heat in molten salt or sand for several months addresses the issue of long-term and seasonal energy storage. This capability is particularly valuable for wind and solar farms, as it allows for the consistent and reliable supply of clean electricity even during periods of low renewable energy generation. Airthium's solution not only helps decarbonize electricity production but also enables the transition to a 100% renewable energy world.

With a strong team, including two PhDs, and support from prominent investors like Y Combinator and Petit Poucet, Airthium is well-positioned to execute its vision. The company has already raised significant funding and has demonstrated promising revenue growth. As the demand for renewable energy continues to rise and the need for efficient energy storage becomes more critical, Airthium stands to capture a substantial share of the global energy storage market.

The competitive landscape for energy storage solutions is moderately competitive, but Airthium's unique approach and technological advancements give it a distinct advantage. High barriers to entry, such as the need for specialized expertise and substantial capital investment, provide a level of protection for Airthium's market position.

In summary, Airthium's groundbreaking heat pump technology has the potential to revolutionize the energy storage industry, making 100% renewable energy a cost-effective and sustainable reality. With strong financial backing, an impressive team, and a unique solution to a pressing global challenge, Airthium is well-positioned for growth and success in the coming years.

Next Section: Bearish Outlook

Bearish Outlook

While Airthium presents an intriguing solution to the energy storage problem, there are several concerns that investors should be aware of. Firstly, the company has not yet generated any revenue. Despite being in the pre-profit phase, Airthium's annual revenue stands at a mere $365,549, which is relatively low considering the ambitious claims made by the company. This raises doubts about the company's ability to generate significant revenue in the near future.

Furthermore, Airthium's valuation of $20 million seems high considering the company's current stage and financial performance. With no revenue multiples available, it's difficult to assess the company's valuation in relation to its industry peers. However, given the absence of revenue and the limited traction the company has achieved, the valuation appears to be inflated.

Another concern is the lack of partnerships or collaborations. Airthium has not yet secured any partnerships to support the development and commercialization of its technology. Without strategic partnerships, the company may face challenges in scaling its operations and penetrating the market effectively.

Moreover, Airthium's blog mentions that the company has not filed any patents for its technology. This lack of intellectual property protection leaves the company vulnerable to potential competition, as other players in the industry may replicate or improve upon its technology without legal repercussions.

Lastly, the company's burn rate of $69,247 per month is a cause for concern, especially considering the limited cash on hand. With a monthly burn rate exceeding its current cash reserves, Airthium may face significant financial challenges in the near term if it fails to secure additional funding.

Considering these factors, investors should approach Airthium with caution, as the company faces significant hurdles in terms of revenue generation, valuation, partnerships, intellectual property protection, and financial sustainability.

Next Section: Executive Summary

Executive Summary

Airthium is a technology startup developing a heat pump that can transform electricity to heat and vice versa. This innovation could potentially replace fossil fuels used for industrial heat, which currently account for 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The company's heat pump is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective, as it is cheaper to use than natural gas. Airthium is also addressing the energy storage problem for wind and solar farms, offering a solution that can store heat in molten salt or sand for several months. This stored heat can then be converted back into electricity when needed, making renewable energy sources more reliable.

Despite being in the early stages of development, Airthium has already signed a memorandum of understanding with McCain, a large Canadian food company. The agreement outlines plans to install a 100-kilowatt heat pump pilot at McCain's plant in northern France in late 2024. Airthium has also won several national awards, including the Prix Gérondeau by Zodiac Aerospace, Prix des Innovateurs by ArcelorMittal, and the Concours Mondial de l'Innovation.

However, Airthium is not without its challenges. The company is yet to generate significant revenue and is currently burning through cash at a rate of $69,247 per month. Furthermore, its valuation of $20 million may be considered high given its current level of traction. Despite these challenges, Airthium's innovative solution to a significant global issue presents a potentially high-reward investment opportunity. The company's technology could revolutionize the renewable energy sector and contribute significantly to global efforts to combat climate change.

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Company Updates

I didn’t think I would be writing an update about Airthium just nine months after writing a Deal to Watch report about the company. But the news is too good to wait.

Airthium — a French startup building a high temperature heat pump — is extending its round until April 2024. It has made great progress from a business standpoint since it opened its round in July 2022, and most importantly, it lowered its valuation from $55 million to $20 million. Both current and new investors in this round will benefit from this lower price. Because Airthium is finally raising at a fair price, it makes the investment opportunity even more attractive than it was last year.

View Company Update

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Airthium on Wefunder 2022
Platform: Wefunder
Security Type: SAFE
Valuation: $20,000,000

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