Telura

Telura is a German deep-tech startup focused on revolutionizing access to geothermal energy through its innovative next-generation drilling system. The firm is developing electro-impulse drilling technology, which utilizes high-voltage electrical pulses to fracture rock from within, rather than relying on conventional mechanical grinding. This approach aims to make deep geothermal resources more accessible, cost-effective, and scalable, addressing the growing global energy demand driven by factors such as AI data centers, electrification, and heating/cooling needs. Telura's technology is designed to unlock superhot rock geothermal potential, which could provide a significant portion of the world's electricity demand.

Founded in 2025 by Philipp Engelkamp and Andrew Welling, Telura emerged from stealth with a clear mission to overcome the economic and technical challenges associated with deep geothermal drilling. The company's technology is built upon over two decades of research from leading German technical universities, demonstrating a strong scientific foundation. Philipp Engelkamp, CEO and Co-Founder, brings extensive experience in building and scaling deep-tech companies in sustainability, having co-founded INERATEC. Andrew Welling, CTO and Co-Founder, is a Chartered Engineer with a background in delivering complex hardware systems, including leadership roles at Rolls-Royce and Lilium.

While Telura is a technology development company rather than a traditional investment firm, it has successfully attracted significant capital. The company raised a €4 million ($5 million) pre-seed round in Autumn 2025 from notable European deep-tech investors, including Nucleus Capital, Possible Ventures, and First Momentum, along with business angels. This funding supports their ambitious goal of market entry in 2026 and the validation of their technology in real-world conditions through a partnership with the innovation agency SPRIND.

The team's expertise spans geology, engineering, and drilling, combining entrepreneurial drive with deep technical knowledge. Philipp Engelkamp's experience in sustainable e-fuels and Andrew Welling's background in aerospace and complex hardware systems provide a robust foundation for tackling the engineering challenges of industrializing next-generation geothermal technology. Their collective vision is to transform geothermal energy into a globally viable, always-on, and emission-free power source.