Free Electrons 2024: 7 utilities, 15 startups – 1 electrifying journey!

Our challenge

The final module of the global ‘Free Electrons’ programme takes place in Germany in October 2024: A pioneering event for the global energy transformation under the aegis of E.ON. After the successful realisation in 2018, the inspiranten are once again entrusted with the overall production management of the event week.

‘Free Electrons’ connects international start-ups with leading, globally active energy suppliers. In a multi-stage process, the participants develop sustainable ideas for the digital energy future. The impressive success of the eighth edition of the programme: more than 200 pilot projects that have raised over USD 118 million to date.

Our solution

For three days, 60 participants from all over the world come together at the Leadership Academy near Hamburg’s Outer Alster Lake. In workshops and small groups, they work together to refine their solutions and develop viable pilot projects.

In the months leading up to the start of the event, the inspiranten team scouts unusual locations and is responsible for both the technical and logistical organisation of the module week, including a multifaceted networking programme (including a boat trip through the port of Hamburg and a cooking event). The guiding principle for all activities is the exchange of ideas and experiences between start-ups and utility companies.

Open Day
The week ends with an Open Day at the private car museum ‘Prototyp’ in Hamburg’s HafenCity. More than 300 visitors, including investors, innovators, startups and partners from the energy ecosystem, take the opportunity to exchange ideas. The main focus is on the challenges faced by startups: How to scale the business and generate sustainable growth. High-calibre guests provide valuable support and share their experiences in panel discussions, while keynote speaker and ideaDJ Ramon Vullings, who is also moderating the entire day, provides eye-opening impulses. Other highlights include the pitch presentation of the innovation projects on a large stage in front of top decision-makers and the accompanying project exhibition.

In the event app set up by the inspiranten, all detailed information about the programme can be viewed in advance; appointments for networking and matchmaking can also be arranged here according to specific areas of interest.

Closing party
The event week comes to a glittering conclusion on the 23rd floor of the Emporio Tower: against the breathtaking backdrop of Hamburg, the international utility partners CLP, EDP, E.ON, ESB, Jera, Hydro Quebec and Origin Energy award the prestigious title of ‘Startup of the Year’.

The award is given to a startup that stands out for its outstanding innovations and potential to transform the energy landscape in the long term. However, it is not only the award winners from ‘reLi Energy’ who benefit: numerous participants leave Free Electrons 2024 with pilot projects and a valuable network of partners and contacts.

Our success

The Grand Finale of ‘Free Electrons’ and the Open Day 2024 are a complete success:

• Intensive networking: Participants make valuable contacts with investors and industry representatives.
• Innovative presentations: The startups receive positive feedback on their projects and initiate potential collaborations.
• Glamorous award ceremony: The award for the ‘best’ startup promotes commitment to innovation in the energy sector.

The conclusion: ‘Free Electrons’ has once again proven how important the exchange between startups and established companies is. The combination of intensive workshops, networking opportunities and an inspiring presentation platform makes a significant contribution to the development of sustainable energy solutions and promotes innovation in the energy sector.

The inspiranten are delighted to have once again contributed to the success of this forward-looking programme.