AI-supported energy management for SMEs

30.06.2025

Source: E & M powernews

The Munich-based start-up Ecoplanet offers an AI-supported platform for SMEs to digitally manage energy consumption, procurement and regulation.

Whether Auto-Teile-Unger Handel (A.T.U.), Thyssenkrupp or Leica Microsystems - as different as the companies are, they rely on a young start-up from Munich for their energy and procurement management. EcoPlanet Green Operations GmbH now has more than 100 customers under contract. With the "Ecoplanet Cockpit", the company is targeting medium-sized companies in particular, which are faced with rising energy costs and complex legal requirements.

"We have recognized in many discussions that the topic of energy costs and procurement is extremely complex for companies - and that they want a single point of contact for everything," explains Maximilian Dekorsy, one of the founders of Ecoplanet. The energy crisis at the beginning of 2022 reinforced the decision to develop solutions that would enable companies to face the volatile energy markets with confidence. "We developed our business idea from this."

The company was founded in 2022 by Maximilian Dekorsy and Henry Keppler. Dekorsy is responsible for growth and HR, while Keppler focuses on product and technology. Both are familiar with the challenges faced by SMEs from their work at consulting firms Boston Consulting Group and McKinsey.

With their company, the founders see themselves not only as procurers and optimizers, but also as translators of a new energy economy. "Until now, consumption and supply have mostly been viewed in isolation," says Dekorsy. There is considerable savings potential in linking them. "Companies that want to reduce their energy consumption in a targeted manner first need a valid data basis. In many cases, the overview is still based on the monthly bill," says Dekorsy. This makes it difficult to see whether and to what extent consumption is changing.

According to the founders, Ecoplanet's software provides the necessary consumption data in the digital cockpit. It relies on recording performance measurement (RLM meter) and regular access to current values. This makes operational optimization possible for the first time. The integrated AI analyzes anomalies, identifies load peaks and inefficiently running systems or unusually high consumption.

Another module is the integrated procurement support. Ecoplanet sees itself as an interface between energy suppliers and consumers. An AI continuously analyzes the market prices for electricity and gas and makes this information available in the system in real time. This gives companies the opportunity to actively manage their load profiles.

With its focus on medium-sized companies and the combination of technology and regulatory expertise, Ecoplanet aims to position itself as a "high-tech energy consultant" for companies that want to optimize their energy processes and meet legal requirements at the same time. "On average, our customers save up to 13% of their energy costs," says Dekorsy in an interview with the editorial team.

Three functions, one software

Ecoplanet combines three central functions in its technology-supported platform solution, which can be booked on a modular basis: Real-time monitoring of energy consumption, optimization of energy procurement and support in complying with regulatory requirements. The system analyzes consumption data, identifies potential savings and provides automated recommendations for action. It also enables the planning and implementation of measures to increase energy efficiency and provides support in preparing for certifications such as ISO 50001.

The platform is therefore aimed at various company roles: Energy managers, for example, receive analyses and reports on energy costs and their optimization, purchasers benefit from market analyses and price alerts, and managing directors receive an overview of costs, consumption and risks. With Ecoplanet, billing is staggered according to the module and consumption of the respective company. The software is also eligible for funding under module 3 of the Bafa subsidy program.

Since its foundation, Ecoplanet has successfully completed several rounds of financing. In January 2025, the company secured EUR 16 million in a Series A round, led by EQT Ventures with participation from HV Capital and other investors. The capital will be used to expand the software functions and market expansion. Ecoplanet currently manages over 2,000 locations and an energy volume of more than 2.5 billion kWh.

The company currently employs around 85 people at its sites in Munich and Berlin. The company is planning double-digit million sales for 2025 and wants to expand the team further.

Author: Heidi Roider