Cell-En Secures 150 Million Yen in Seed Funding for Microbial Power Generation Experiment

Introduction

Tokyo-based startup Cell-En, under the leadership of CEO Sadaharu Higuchi and COO Naomi Yamaguchi, has recently announced a successful seed funding round, securing 150 million yen through a third-party allocation of shares from Sparkle No. 1 Investment Limited Liability Partnership, along with additional grants. This funding is aimed at further developing their innovative microbial power generation technology and conducting practical demonstration experiments.

Background of Funding

Cell-En has a vision of achieving a sustainable future through microbial power generation. As natural disasters continue to intensify due to climate change, there is an increasing demand for strengthening local resilience, especially concerning stable power supply, which directly impacts daily life and economic activities. Cell-En’s microbial power generation system aims to provide a reliable off-grid energy solution that is sustainable, safe, and available anytime, anywhere. The recent funding will enable the company to accelerate its technology development and work on scaling up devices for outdoor experiments.

About Cell-En Technology®

The proprietary technology of Cell-En enhances power generation capacity by solidifying the generation core. The microorganisms used in the process are uniquely isolated from various regions, and nutrients are sourced from food and agricultural waste, enabling waste upcycling. Cell-En Technology® represents a step towards localized energy production, addressing both energy and waste societal issues. Microbial power generation involves capturing electrons produced when microorganisms break down organic matter, effectively converting them into electricity.

Call for Collaborative Partners

Cell-En is actively seeking collaboration and demonstration partners to further accelerate its social implementation. They are looking for the following types of partnerships:

- PoC (Proof of Concept) Companies: Companies willing to conduct technical validations in real project environments.
- Municipalities: Local governments that can support demonstration experiments as part of renewable energy initiatives or disaster prevention measures.
- Research Institutions and Educational Entities: Partners for research and development of microbial power generation technology and talent training.
- Commercial Entities: Companies considering the introduction of microbial power generation devices as a means of reducing environmental impacts or enhancing business continuity plans (BCP).

Community Support from Sparkle, Inc.

Hidetaka Fukudome, Executive of Sparkle Inc., expressed excitement about investing in Cell-En. He emphasized the indispensable role of electricity in daily life amidst growing disaster risks and the essential need for advanced power supply solutions. Fukudome believes Cell-En's environmentally efficient technology will pave the way for transformative changes in power supply globally, enhancing resilience in affected areas and contributing to the localized startup ecosystem in Tohoku.

The Significance of Microbial Power Generation

Tatsuki Sato, a venture capitalist from Sparkle, praised the potential of Cell-En’s technology, especially in the context of strong interest in carbon neutrality and economic security. He recalled meeting Cell-En at the 2024 Fukushima Tech Create event, where he was impressed by their unique small microbial generators. Despite previous challenges in achieving breakthroughs in microbial power generation, Cell-En stands as a promising player working towards societal implementation. Sato emphasized the importance of their initiative in promoting regional energy autonomy while minimizing environmental impact.

Future Aspirations

President Sadaharu Higuchi of Cell-En aims to provide comprehensive solutions to significant challenges related to energy, environment, and waste management through partnerships, including the one with Sparkle. The investment from Sparkle will help accelerate the development of technology, ultimately leading to a sustainable future where microbial power generation can fulfill energy needs while reducing ecological footprints.

Closing Thoughts

As a startup focused on local revitalization, Cell-En’s commitment to using microbial power generation technology signifies a crucial step towards a greener future. With the backing of strategic partners and investors like Sparkle, the company is poised to shape a new paradigm in renewable energy supply while empowering communities to achieve energy independence and resilience.

For inquiries, please reach out to:
Cell-En
Contact: Naomi Yamaguchi
Email: [email protected]
Sparkle, Inc.
Website: https://spurcle.jp