LightSeeds Secures Funding for Vertical Solar Technology

Swiss innovator LightSeeds has secured CHF 150,000 (approximately €162,000) from Venture Kick, a significant early-stage boost aimed at commercializing its novel vertical solar panel technology. This funding injection is earmarked for accelerating business development and scaling operations, transitioning the company from initial market validation to broader commercial deployment.

The CleanTech startup, founded in 2024 by photovoltaics veterans Laure-Emmanuelle Perret and Pierrick Duvoisin, is tackling a substantial untapped market. LightSeeds' core innovation lies in developing ultra-light, unbreakable photovoltaic systems specifically engineered for vertical installations. This approach aims to transform underutilized surfaces along transportation corridors like roads and railways, as well as the facades of commercial and industrial buildings, into productive energy assets.

Traditional solar installations often face limitations due to the weight, fragility, and installation complexity of glass-based modules, particularly on vertical planes. LightSeeds addresses these pain points with a glass-free, modular system designed for rapid, low-tool installation. This design not only reduces installation costs and breakage risks but also significantly lowers the carbon footprint associated with deployment, opening new avenues for solar energy integration in urban and industrial settings.

The global market for vertical solar applications is estimated to exceed €433 billion, encompassing infrastructure, industrial, and commercial sectors. LightSeeds is pursuing a dual strategy, targeting both B2B clients—including industrial operators, agricultural businesses, and installers—and B2G projects within public infrastructure. The company reports existing projects and a growing pipeline within Switzerland and other European markets.

This funding round for LightSeeds aligns with a broader trend of capital flowing into the solar and clean energy sectors. Recent comparable investments include Solarock's €7 million for its franchise network, enshift's €18.5 million for integrated energy solutions, GRYD Energy's €1.1 million for a subscription model, feld.energy's over €10 million for Agri-PV systems, Alight's €46 million for a solar park, and TerraSpark's over €5 million for space-based solar. These deals, totaling over €87 million, underscore sustained investor interest across diverse solar technologies and business models.

While LightSeeds' current funding is modest, it is strategically positioned for an early-stage commercialization phase. The support from Venture Kick extends beyond capital, providing crucial mentorship in refining the business model and validating market entry strategies. CEO Laure-Emmanuelle Perret emphasized that the program has been instrumental in accelerating the company's journey from technological development to market readiness.