Powerchainger: Smart Energy Usage Without Additional Infrastructure

Th 13 February 2025

What if we could use energy smarter without extra cables or extensive infrastructure? That's exactly what Powerchainger, an ambitious Dutch climate tech startup based at Campus Groningen, is working on. Founded by CEO Yang Soo Kloosterhof, the company aims to make sustainable and clean energy globally accessible. "Our mission is to make renewable energy available to everyone," says Kloosterhof. "Still, 10% of the world's population lacks access to energy, while many depend on polluting sources. With smart technology and AI, we aim to change that."

Instead of intervening in physical infrastructure, Powerchainger focuses on software to build the energy system of the future. "With our smart algorithms, we can real-time disaggregate energy data at the device level, without the need for smart plugs. Furthermore, our algorithms consider weather conditions and available renewables. This helps consumers optimize their energy consumption, creating a flexible and resilient energy system," explains Kloosterhof.

How does it work

Powerchainger targets households, with energy providers as their direct customers. "Our technology can analyze energy data at the individual device level, without requiring physical changes in homes," Kloosterhof says. "In the Netherlands, nearly 90% of households have smart meters. Our software uses data from these meters to detect active devices and accurately predict when and where energy is needed. This allows households to shift their consumption to cheaper and more sustainable times of the day."

Collaboration with Energy Providers

Energy companies are key clients for Powerchainger. "Energy companies play a crucial role in the energy transition, but they face challenges such as unpredictable energy needs and high customer turnover," notes Kloosterhof. "Our technology helps them better understand their customers and actively engage them in energy optimization."

One of the innovative solutions in development is a dongle that connects to the smart meter. "This dongle interfaces with our algorithms and provides real-time insights into device-level energy consumption via an app. This helps households use energy more efficiently and optimally, without permanently storing their data."

"Our mission is to make renewable energy available to everyone. Still, 10% of the world's population lacks access to energy, while many depend on polluting sources. With smart technology and AI, we aim to change that."

Yang Soo Kloosterhof founder en CEO van Powerchainger

Impact on Energy Networks and Congestion Issues

More efficient energy use benefits not only individual households but also helps reduce network congestion, which affects businesses. By better balancing supply and demand, Powerchainger contributes to a more stable energy network. "Congestion, like traffic jams, is a structural issue. Technology alone isn't enough; behavioral change also plays a significant role," Kloosterhof emphasizes. This is where Powerchainger distinguishes itself: combining state-of-the-art technology with behavioral influence.

Why Campus Groningen?

Powerchainger is strategically located at Zernike Campus. "Here, we collaborate with Hanze and faculties such as Science and Engineering and AI from the University of Groningen," Kloosterhof explains. The campus provides access to research projects and has a strong focus on energy. "Moreover, it's a dynamic startup community where we feel at home. It's an inspiring environment with a mix of knowledge institutions and entrepreneurs."

From the Netherlands to a Global Market

While initially focusing on the Dutch market, Powerchainger aims for international operations in the future. "Ultimately, our goal is global," Kloosterhof asserts. Currently in the early-stage phase, the company is determined to bring its technology to market this year.

"We're currently testing our technology with international energy supplier Vattenfall and preparing for a beta launch, a test with a group of users," Kloosterhof reveals. This year marks Powerchainger's initial market entry, with the next two years focused on broader market penetration and collaborations with multiple energy companies. Northern Europe is the next targeted region, followed by broader expansion within and beyond Europe.

The Road Ahead: Growth and Innovation

The coming years are crucial for Powerchainger to evolve from a promising startup to a market player in smart energy solutions. In addition to the planned market introduction in 2025, additional financing is necessary to accelerate growth and achieve break-even. Following a recent investment from Future Tech Ventures, Powerchainger is seeking new capital to realize its next growth phase. "The biggest challenge currently is actual market entry," Kloosterhof admits. "We need to prove in the coming months that we can not only run pilots but also be a serious player." Long-term partnerships with energy companies are crucial in this endeavor.

With advanced AI technology and strategic partnerships, Powerchainger aims to accelerate the energy transition and make sustainable energy accessible to everyone. "It's not just about people with solar panels, Teslas, and home batteries," Kloosterhof stresses. "It's especially about those without access to affordable and sustainable energy who should benefit."

Contact

Interested in learning more about Powerchainger? You can contact Powerchainger via Yang Soo Kloosterhof (yangsoo@powerchainger.nl). The company is open to collaborations and innovative developments within the energy market.

Source: Campus Groningen
Photo: Yang Soo Kloosterhof, CEO Powerchainger (left) and Marios Souroulla, CTO Powerchainger. Rights: NV NOM

Maybe also interesting for you

Th 12 March 2026

“Every euro raised goes directly to the children.”

Op zondag 31 mei 2026 staat Groningen in het teken van sport, doorzettingsvermogen en betrokkenheid. Tussen alle lopers is ook het herkenbare roze van Vrienden Beatrix Kinderziekenhuis zichtbaar.

Mo 23 February 2026

Groningen hosts the Dutch Medicines Winter Afternoon full of innovation

The LIFE Cooperative, part of the Northern Netherlands life sciences ecosystem at Campus Groningen, is organizing the Dutch Medicines Winter Afternoon together with FIGON on Thursday, 26 February. This fully booked event brings together leading scientists and industry experts to explore the latest developments in innovative medicines and advanced drug delivery. Read the full article as published by the LIFE Cooperative.National Attention for Sold-Out Dutch Medicines Winter Afternoon: Innovative Medicines and Advanced Drug Delivery Take Center Stage in Groningen Innovation in medicines takes center stage on Thursday, 26 February during the Dutch Medicines Winter Afternoon, an inspiring event organized by FIGON (Federation for Innovative Drug Research Netherlands) in collaboration with the LIFE Cooperative. “We are extremely proud of the strong line-up at this event, bringing together leading experts from science and industry to explore the frontiers of drug development. The fact that registrations are already fully booked underlines the great importance of this event for the life sciences ecosystem, and in particular for the Northern Netherlands,” says Ronald Hesse, Director of the LIFE Cooperative. The Dutch Medicines Winter Afternoon brings together scientists, innovators, and professionals from across the Netherlands for an afternoon of insights, knowledge exchange, and networking opportunities. The speaker line-up features experts from both academia and industry. This event is already fully booked. Interested in joining the waiting list? Please email: amber@lifecooperative.nlConnecting force The afternoon will be opened by Prof. Klaas Poelstra of the University of Groningen (RUG), Chair of FIGON, who will outline the importance of innovative drug development in the Netherlands. This will be followed by an introduction by Robert Hof on behalf of the LIFE Cooperative, highlighting the cooperative’s role as a connecting force within the regional ecosystem. The first session block before the break focuses on innovation in drug delivery systems. Rob Steendam (CTO, InnoCore) will discuss the development of long-acting SynBiosys® microspheres for controlled and sustained drug release. Jaap Wieling (CEO, PureIMS) will present the potential of dry-powder inhalation via the Cyclops® technology for both pulmonary and systemic indications. From an academic perspective, Prof. Marleen Kamperman (University of Groningen) will explore the potential of polyelectrolyte coacervates as innovative drug delivery platforms.Deep dive After the break, the focus shifts to advanced nanomedicines and clinical development strategies. Dr. Flávia Sousa (RUG) will present her work on polymer-based nanomedicines for the delivery of biotherapeutics to the brain. Dr. Ad Roffel (ICON plc, Groningen) will address mass balance and absolute bioavailability studies with ¹⁴C-labeled drugs in humans, an essential component of clinical drug development. Prof. Erik Frijlink (RUG) will reflect on the value of innovation within both established and advanced drug delivery systems, placing technological progress in a broader pharmaceutical context. Finally, Prof. Helder Santos (RUG) will demonstrate how nanomedicines are being used for RNA delivery in myocardial infarction repair, a promising development in cardiovascular therapy. “We are extremely proud of the strong line-up at this event, bringing together leading experts from science and industry to explore the frontiers of drug development. The fact that registrations are already fully booked underlines the great importance of this event for the life sciences ecosystem, and in particular for the Northern Netherlands." - Ronald Hesse, director LIFE CooperativeClosing and networking The afternoon will conclude with a contribution by Peter Ketelaar (LIFE Cooperative), followed by closing remarks from Prof. Klaas Poelstra. Participants will then have the opportunity to connect and continue discussions during the networking reception. Hesse looks forward to the event: “With this event, FIGON and the LIFE Cooperative underline the strength of collaboration between academia, industry, and clinical practice. The Dutch Medicines Winter Afternoon promises not only to be an inspiring afternoon, but also to provide momentum for further innovation and collaboration within the Northern Netherlands life sciences ecosystem.” Text: lifecooperative.nlPhotographer: Casper Maas

Th 19 February 2026

New Master Plan for the Healthy Ageing Campus Officially Approved

The master plan for the Healthy Ageing Campus has officially been approved! This marks an important step in developing the campus as a hub for knowledge, innovation, and collaboration. With a focus on greenery, health, and connection to the city, the campus will become a vibrant environment where research, education, healthcare, and business come together. The vision provides space for new laboratories, building renovations, meeting places, and closer collaboration between UMCG, RUG, and the business community. Read the whole article by the UMCG below.Green light for the Healthy Ageing Campus Master Plan On Wednesday, 18 February 2026, the Groningen City Council formally approved the master plan for the Healthy Ageing Campus. This is a major milestone, as the plan provides the framework for the campus’s further development and its integration with the surrounding area. At the end of last year, the University of Groningen (RUG), the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), and the City of Groningen presented an ambitious, future-proof plan for the campus. Shared ambitions have been translated into coherent spatial and programmatic guidelines for current and future developments. In other words: how much space is available for which functions on the campus, and where is the most suitable location for them? The renewed campus will: Provide space for knowledge, innovation, and collaboration, encouraging interaction between disciplines and people; Connect with the city, making the campus a natural part of Groningen life; Be a healthy and sustainable environment, with attention to greenery, physical activity, wellbeing, and a living environment that supports health; Be lively and accessible, bringing together living, working, research, studying, and healthcare.Next steps The master plan is not only a blueprint for the future, but also a concrete step toward further developing the current campus. Construction and renovation on the UMCG and RUG grounds are ongoing, and each project must now be assessed to determine what is possible. With the approval of this master plan, the way is cleared for follow-up decisions, including applying for demolition and building permits and further project development within the area. Upcoming projects include: The construction of the Central Laboratory for Diagnostics and Research (CLDR): a new laboratory building on the site of the former UCP building. This building will bring together various laboratories in one location to improve collaboration. Relocating laboratories from the Central Medical Complex is also necessary for the renovation and expansion of several hospital departments; Renovation and future-proofing of existing UMCG and RUG buildings, with attention to sustainability, flexibility, and integration with the heating/cooling system; Making the campus greener and more accessible, creating new meeting places and better connections to surrounding public spaces; Creating space for campus-related business activities, strengthening collaboration between UMCG, RUG, and the private sector.Municipality explores the future of DOT Initially, the master plan covered the area between Petrus Campersingel and Oostersingel, from Hanzeplein to the Oosterhamrikkanaal. In the newly approved plan, the Bodenterrein site has been separated, as the municipality is investigating the costs of possibly preserving DOT. More information on this will be available later this year. Read more about the Master Plan.Source text and pictures: umcg.nl

View all 78 articles