Voltiris: The Venture Leader Cleantech developing the very first photovoltaic modules for glass greenhouses

Meet Nicolas Weber, CEO of Voltiris. By separating and utilizing the light components from the sun efficiently, the Cleantech startup aims to offer growers improved energy independence, increased profitability, and a reduced carbon footprint.

Name: Nicolas Weber
Location: Lausanne
Nationality: Swiss
Graduated from: Management and Strategy at the London School of Economics
Job title: Co-Founder & CEO
Number of employees: 9 (excluding interns)
Money raised: CHF 1.25M 
First touchpoint with Venturelab: One of my responsibilities during the Bachelor's in 2011 and 2012 was to assist with Venturelab courses at the University of Lausanne.

Can you tell us who your product or solution helps, and how?
Voltiris develops photovoltaic modules for existing greenhouses, allowing simultaneous electricity generation and improved crop productivity. Greenhouse growers benefit from enhanced energy independence, profitability, and reduced carbon footprint.

What market are you addressing and what is the potential of your startup in that market?
We focus on high-tech greenhouse growers in Europe, capitalizing on the region's energy challenges and pushing for greenhouse energy transition. The opportunity is substantial, as current solutions don't suit ~95% of growers, representing a potential to install up to 10GW of renewable energy in Europe. With greenhouses' growing importance (~7% yearly increase) for food security, our solution holds significant promise.

How and where did you come up with the idea for your startup?
The idea originated from my Co-Founder, Jonas Roch, who holds a PhD in Spectroscopy. After he envisioned transforming unused light into energy, we collaborated to iterate on the concept with Dominik Blaser, our third founder. We promptly sought input from greenhouse operators to refine the idea.

What do you expect from the Venture Leaders Cleantech roadshow, and how will it help you achieve your vision?
The roadshow will provide useful learning, enhance our visibility and credibility within the CleanTech ecosystem, and boost productive exchanges with peers and partners. These elements will accelerate our development, including knowledge gained during the program and potential partnerships.

What are your team’s key achievements to date?
Our team has achieved significant milestones, including being operational in 9 projects across Switzerland, the Netherlands, France, Spain, and the United States, with 4 more in preparation. We have also successfully established partnerships with key industrial players and leading research centres. Additionally, we have assembled a dedicated team of 9 employees to drive our mission forward.

What is the most challenging and rewarding aspect of being a founder?
Turning an ambitious idea into a successful product is undeniably challenging, yet it yields the most fulfilling sense of accomplishment.

What is the most important lesson you have learned as a founder?
Recognizing your limitations and bringing onboard skilled individuals to tackle challenges is crucial.

What is your favourite productivity hack/tool and why?
Focus on output first and work towards it. This approach streamlines tasks and keeps the end goal in sight.

What was your dream job when you were a child?
After visiting the 'Grande Dixence' dam, I aspired to be a Civil Engineer.