Experts Only Hans Kobler, CEO and Managing Partner of Energy Impact Partners
4 snips
Jan 16, 2018 
Hans Kobler, CEO and Managing Partner of Energy Impact Partners, works with global utilities to accelerate clean, decentralized, and digital energy solutions. He discusses how utilities partner with startups through strategic investing. Topics include the three D's of the energy transition, partner-driven scouting for storage and EV infrastructure, and using collaboration to de-risk utility innovation.
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From Investor To Emergency CEO Turned Public Founder
- Hans unexpectedly became a CEO after portfolio companies rejected his proposed hire, stepping in for a year that turned into five and led the company public.
- That operating stint taught him execution realities and improved how he advises boards and founders.
Three Forces Reshaping The Power Industry
- The power industry faces three simultaneous forces: decarbonization, decentralization, and digitalization reshaping infrastructure and business models.
- Hans Kobler says utilities must adapt because rooftop solar, storage, EVs and digital tech change demand patterns and grid operations.
Use Strategic Investing To Accelerate Corporate Innovation
- Combine strategic corporate objectives with financial investing to access startups while advancing operating businesses.
- Kobler recommends sitting on boards, making strategic equity investments, and pooling utility partners to share insights and reduce innovation risk.