What is Albotherm?
Albotherm is shaking up the world of temperature control with its innovative glass coatings that can switch from transparent to white—and back again—without any electrical input. These smart coatings help reduce solar gain during hot weather, letting buildings and greenhouses regulate their own temperature naturally. The magic lies in their tunability, with transition temperatures adjustable anywhere between 18 °C and 45 °C, making it possible to maintain comfortable indoor climates across diverse environments. Developed initially at the University of Bristol, this cutting-edge technology is now being advanced by Albotherm’s CTO, Dr. Sian Fussell, alongside Scientific Advisor Professor Paddy Royall.
The Main Benefit: Tackling Energy Use and Emissions
Temperature regulation is a massive energy hog worldwide, and Albotherm’s coatings offer a fresh way to cut down on that. Here’s the lowdown:
- Air conditioning accounts for 20% of electricity use in buildings.
- Buildings contribute to 10% of total global electricity consumption.
- Glass buildings, in particular, trap solar radiation, causing overheating issues.
- In the US alone, air conditioning releases around 100 million tonnes of greenhouse gases annually.
- Albotherm’s coatings reduce the need for energy-intensive cooling systems, slashing emissions and costs.
Applications in Food Production
Keeping crops at the right temperature year-round is no small feat—and it’s energy-intensive, too. Thermal regulation in agriculture is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Passive solutions exist, sure, but they can’t adapt quickly to temperature swings, which often means lower crop yields. Albotherm’s responsive coatings offer a smarter alternative: they adjust automatically, improving growing conditions while cutting down on emissions. It’s a win-win for food security and the planet.
Applications in Commercial Buildings
Commercial buildings, especially those with lots of glass like skyscrapers and warehouses, face a big challenge with overheating. Air conditioning units are the go-to fix, but they guzzle energy and pump out greenhouse gases. Albotherm’s smart coatings provide a clever way to manage indoor temperatures without relying on these energy-hungry systems. The result? Lower emissions, reduced energy bills, and more comfortable spaces.
Company Mission and Vision
Albotherm is all about making a positive impact through clean technology. Their mission is crystal clear: to cut carbon emissions from thermal management across various sectors while boosting food security for a growing global population. Beyond the tech, the company champions diversity and equality, aiming to build a business that’s as socially responsible as it is innovative. From greenhouses to commercial buildings, Albotherm’s solutions are designed to drive sustainability without the need for electricity.
Albotherm’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – by reducing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – through pioneering temperature-responsive technology.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by improving building energy efficiency.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – via sustainable thermal management solutions.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by cutting greenhouse gas emissions linked to temperature regulation.
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – supporting food security through improved agricultural conditions.
Funding, Location, and Team
Albotherm is based in Bristol, UK, operating out of Future Space at UWE North Gate. The company has successfully completed four funding rounds, with the latest Seed round in July 2023 raising US$ 2.0 million. Investors include Green Angel Ventures among others. Though small, the team is a dedicated group of professionals passionate about innovation and sustainability, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in temperature regulation technology. For those curious or interested in partnerships, Albotherm keeps the door open for collaboration and investment opportunities.
