On May 5, 2025, mo energy systems unveiled its innovative photovoltaic (PV) facade solution on the popular show "Die Höhle der Löwen" (The Lion's Den). Founded by Alexander Moosbrugger and Manuel Hehle, the startup aims to revolutionize how solar energy is harnessed by utilizing building facades, which are often overlooked as potential sources of renewable energy.
Mo energy systems operates within the solar industry, focusing specifically on the integration of photovoltaics into building facades. The company's unique approach combines a flexible mounting system with a sophisticated app that employs artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) to simplify the planning and installation process for contractors and homeowners alike.
"Photovoltaics on roofs are well-known, but we think beyond that. Every facade can produce energy," stated Moosbrugger during his pitch. This sentiment underscores the startup's mission to make PV facades accessible and practical for the masses, transforming underutilized building surfaces into power sources.
The company's business model is built on two main pillars: hardware and software. The hardware consists of a specially designed PV substructure that is easy to assemble, visually appealing, and adaptable to various facade types, including wood, concrete, and insulated composite systems (ETICS). Meanwhile, the software component is an app that allows users to plan PV facades directly from their smartphones, offering features like module placement, yield forecasts, and quote generation.
Mo energy systems is not just about providing products; it's about addressing a clear market need. According to the founders, one of the primary challenges in implementing PV facades has been the lack of standardized mounting systems and user-friendly planning tools. They have effectively bridged this gap by creating a comprehensive solution that combines both hardware and software.
One of the standout features of the mo energy systems app is its ability to utilize computer vision and AR technology. This allows users to analyze their facades in real-time, considering factors such as orientation, shading, and available space. The app then suggests the best-suited PV modules and provides a detailed economic forecast of potential energy yields.
Looking ahead, Mo energy systems has set ambitious goals for itself. The company plans to initiate a beta rollout with the first 100 users in May 2025, followed by the establishment of a network of craftsmen and sales partners across the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland). The founders aim to achieve EUR 3 million in sales by the end of 2025 and are actively seeking strategic investors to support their growth.
During their appearance on "Die Höhle der Löwen," Moosbrugger and Hehle pitched for an investment of 800,000 euros in exchange for 10 percent of the company shares, valuing the startup at 7.2 million euros before the investment. This valuation reflects their confidence in the scalability of their business model and the potential demand for PV facades.
The founders believe that the shift towards renewable energy sources must not only focus on roofs but also embrace facades, especially in urban areas where space is limited. "We want to make PV facades a standard part of the energy transition," Moosbrugger emphasized. Their vision is for millions of currently unused facades to contribute actively to energy production, particularly during the winter months when conventional solar sources may underperform.
In preparation for their pitch, Mo energy systems developed a DIY facade kit for private homeowners who wish to install PV modules themselves. This move aligns with their goal of democratizing access to renewable energy technology and empowering individuals to take charge of their energy needs.
As the founders embark on this journey, they are aware of the challenges ahead. They recognize that for their technology to succeed, hardware and software must work seamlessly together. Moosbrugger noted, "The best substructure is useless if the planning is complicated, and the best app fails if the installation isn't well thought out." This understanding drives their commitment to creating intuitive, practical solutions that cater to the needs of users.
In a broader context, the concept of facade photovoltaics is gaining traction as part of the global shift towards sustainable energy. Experts suggest that utilizing facades for energy generation can significantly contribute to decentralized power production, particularly in densely populated urban environments. The potential for facades to become vital components in the energy landscape is increasingly recognized, making mo energy systems' innovations timely and relevant.
In summary, mo energy systems is poised to make a significant impact in the renewable energy sector with its innovative approach to photovoltaic facades. By combining cutting-edge technology with a clear understanding of market needs, the startup is well-positioned to lead the charge in making solar energy more accessible and efficient for everyone. The outcome of their pitch on "Die Höhle der Löwen" will undoubtedly be closely watched as they seek to secure the investment needed to realize their ambitious goals.
As the founders prepare for the next steps following their appearance on the show, they are focused on onboarding new partners from the trades and solar industries, launching targeted marketing campaigns, and continuously enhancing their app's functionality. The future looks bright for mo energy systems as they strive to bring the energy transition literally to the walls of buildings everywhere.
