4 biggest challenges of Houston-based sustainability startups

Houston innovation awards

The six finalists for the sustainability category for the 2023 Houston Innovation Awards weigh in on their challenges overcome. Photos courtesy

Six Houston-area sustainability startups have been named finalists in the 2023 Houston Innovation Awards, but they didn't achieve this recognition — as well as see success for their businesses — without any obstacles.

The finalists were asked what their biggest challenges have been. From funding to market adoption, the sustainability companies have had to overcome major obstacles to continue to develop their businesses.

The awards program — hosted by EnergyCapital's sister site, InnovationMap, and Houston Exponential — will name its winners on November 8 at the Houston Innovation Awards. The program was established to honor the best and brightest companies and individuals from the city's innovation community. Eighteen energy startups were named as finalists across all categories, but the following responses come from the finalists in the sustainability category specifically.

Click here to secure your tickets to see who wins.

1. Securing a commercial pilot

"As an early-stage clean energy developer, we struggled to convince key suppliers to work on our commercial pilot project. Suppliers were skeptical of our unproven technology and, given limited inventory from COVID, preferred to prioritize larger clients. We overcame this challenge by bringing on our top suppliers as strategic investors. With a long-term equity stake in Fervo, leading oilfield services companies were willing to provide Fervo with needed drilling rigs, frack crews, pumps, and other equipment." — Tim Latimer, founder and CEO of Fervo Energy

2. Finding funding

"Securing funding in Houston as a solo cleantech startup founder and an immigrant with no network. Overcome that by adopting a milestone-based fundraising approach and establishing credibility through accelerator/incubator programs." — Anas Al Kassas, CEO and founder of INOVUES

"The biggest challenge has been finding funding. Most investors are looking towards software development companies as the capital costs are low in case of a risk. Geothermal costs are high, but it is physical technology that needs to be implemented to safety transition the energy grid to reliable, green power." — Cindy Taff, CEO of Sage Geosystems

3. Market adoption

"Market adoption by convincing partners and government about WHP as a solution, which is resource-intensive. Making strides by finding the correct contacts to educate." — Janice Tran, CEO and co-founder of Kanin Energy

"We are creating a brand new financial instrument at the intersection of carbon markets and power markets, both of which are complicated and esoteric. Our biggest challenge has been the cold-start problem associated with launching a new product that has effectively no adoption. We tackled this problem by leading the Energy Storage Solutions Consortium (a group of corporates and battery developers looking for sustainability solutions in the power space), which has opened up access to customers on both sides of our marketplace. We have also leveraged our deep networks within corporate power procurement and energy storage development to talk to key decision-makers at innovative companies with aggressive climate goals to become early adopters of our products and services." — Emma Konet, CTO and co-founder of Tierra Climate

4. Long scale timelines

"Scaling and commercializing industrial technologies takes time. We realized this early on and designed the eXERO technology to be scalable from the onset. We developed the technology at the nexus of traditional electrolysis and conventional gas processing, taking the best of both worlds while avoiding their main pitfalls." — Claus Nussgruber, CEO of Utility Global

Houston-based INOVUES CEO Anas Al Kassas joins the Energy Tech Startups podcast to discuss his company's energy-saving tech. Photo via inovues.com

Houston innovator on the impact of facade enhancement on the energy transition

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Imagine a world where outdated building facades transform overnight into modern marvels without the chaos of construction or the burden of exorbitant costs.

In the recent podcast episode on Energy Tech Startups, Anas Al Kassas, the CEO of INOVUES, unveils a groundbreaking technology that promises just that. This isn't just about a facelift; it's about revolutionizing energy efficiency, embracing smart-class innovations, and redefining the aesthetics of urban landscapes.

The Advantages of Facade Technology

One of the key advantages Al Kassas highlighted was the ability to significantly reduce both the cost and environmental impact of upgrading building facades. Al Kassas explained that by utilizing INOVUES' technology, the existing systems can be updated and improved without the need for removing or discarding the windows. This approach not only saves on material costs but also avoids disruption during installation. Additionally, the fast installation process and lower labor costs further contribute to the overall cost-effectiveness of the solution.

The Role of Design Aesthetics in Building Upgrades

While energy efficiency is a primary driver for building upgrades, Al Kassas emphasized the importance of design aesthetics in the commercial real estate market. He explained that modernizing the appearance of older buildings, which may still perform well but suffer from outdated perceptions, can attract more tenants and make them more competitive. With INOVUES' solution, building owners have the opportunity to improve the aesthetics of their facades by incorporating the latest glass technologies, colors, and frit patterns (translucent patterns on glass). This not only enhances the building's appearance but also contributes to glare reduction and customization options for different tenants' needs.

The Potential for Rentable Facades

During the conversation, Al Kassas speculated about the potential for rentable facades powered by INOVUES' technology. Just as Apple offers an upgrade plan for its devices, this concept proposes a similar model for building owners to continually incorporate the latest technologies every few years. By avoiding upfront costs and providing immediate benefits such as lower energy bills, improved tenant satisfaction, and a more sustainable building, this rentable facade approach could revolutionize the industry and make energy-efficient upgrades more accessible for a wider range of buildings.

The Current Funding Landscape and Future Growth

INOVUES' journey in securing funding, as discussed in the podcast, sheds light on the challenges faced by energy tech startups. The CEO highlighted the importance of timing and identifying the right investors who share the vision and understand the industry landscape. Despite the difficulties, INOVUES has successfully raised capital, including participation from a multinational building technology company. The company's next goal is to secure a series A funding round to scale their operations and expand their footprint in the market.

INOVUES' technology represents a sustainable solution for upgrading building facades without the need for extensive removal or disruptions. The combination of energy efficiency, improved design aesthetics, and the potential for rentable facades showcases the versatility and value of the company's technology. As the demand for sustainable building solutions continues to grow, and regulatory changes support energy efficiency projects, INOVUES is poised to make a significant impact in the industry. By focusing on both environmental and economic benefits, they are positioning themselves as a key player in the energy tech startup landscape.

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Hosted by Jason Ethier and Nada Ahmed, the Digital Wildcatters’ podcast, Energy Tech Startups, delves into Houston's pivotal role in the energy transition, spotlighting entrepreneurs and industry leaders shaping a low-carbon future.

This innovative window treatment startup announced new global patents. Photo courtesy of INOVUES

Houston sustainability startup secures major milestone for energy efficient tool

patent progress

A Houston company that retrofits windows with smart glass innovations to reduce energy use is celebrating a handful of patents across North America and China.

INOVUES announced it secured several new patents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the Canadian Intellectual Patent Office, and the China National Intellectual Property Administration.

“These newly awarded patents reinforce our commitment to innovation and position us as a trusted partner for investors and industry partners,” says Anas Al Kassas, INOVUES founder and CEO, in a news release.

The company now has a total of four patents granted in the United States, Canada, and China, and four more patents pending in the United States, Canada, and the European Union. Additionally, INOVUES has trademark protection granted in the EU, United Kingdom, and China.

INOVUES's unique window treatment — its Insulating Glass Retrofit (IGR) and Secondary Glass Retrofit (SWR) technologies — directly impacts the built environment. The process includes 70 percent fewer materials compared to traditional methods and building owners see a 40 percent reduction in reduction in energy consumption following installation.

Last year, the company raised $2.75 million in venture funding. Kassas said at the time that the funding was slated o be used to scale up the team and identify the best markets to target customers, adding that he was looking for regions with rising energy rates and sizable incentives for companies making energy efficient changes.

"We were able to now implement our technology in over 4 million square feet of building space — from Boston, Seattle, Los Angeles, New York City, Portland, and very soon in Canada," he said in a December episode of the Houston Innovators Podcast.

Anas Al Kassas is the CEO and founder of INOVUES. Photo courtesy

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Greentown names 5 climatech startups to manufacturing accelerator

Catalyst Cohort

Greentown Labs has named five climatech startups to its Go Make 2026 cohort, including one from Houston.

Greentown Go Make 2026 is in partnership with Shell Catalysts & Technologies and Technip Energies. Startups will be able to collaborate with leadership from Shell and Technip and have opportunities to work directly with their process engineering teams and develop potential partnerships, pilots and demonstrations, according to Greentown.

This year's manufacturing cohort focuses specifically on process technology and catalytic innovations, which, according to Greentown, have the potential to be a "critical enabler of the global energy transition." Greentown shares that 90 percent of chemical processes depend on catalysis, but traditional methods rely on fossil fuels and consume significant amounts of energy.

“Catalysis underpins the majority of industrial chemical processes, which together account for a significant share of global emissions, making it a critical lever for reducing carbon intensity while improving performance,” Georgina Campbell Flatter, CEO of Greentown, said in a news release. “Greentown Go Make 2026 is designed to close the gap between breakthrough innovation and industrial deployment. By connecting startups with Shell and Technip Energies’ technical expertise and global scale, we’re helping accelerate solutions that improve efficiency and drive industrial decarbonization.”

The five Greentown Go Make 2026 companies include:

Houston-based Biosimo, which makes scalable biochemicals from ethanol
Missouri-based Catalyxx, which transforms bioethanol into drop-in, cost-competitive, carbon-negative chemicals
Sydney, Australia-based HydGene Renewables, which produces low-carbon hydrogen and industrial chemicals from waste biomass
Switzerland-based TreaTech, which turns waste into renewable gas, water and minerals through catalytic hydrothermal gasification
California-based Unifuel, which has developed a chemical technology platform to make sustainable aviation fuel, renewable gasoline and other renewable chemicals

The cohort will be celebrated at a kickoff event in Houston at The Ion on June 9.

In addition to Greentown Go Make, Greentown also runs its Go Move (transportation), Go Energize (energy and electricity), Go Build (buildings), and Go Grow (food and agriculture) cohort-based programs. The climatech incubator announced its Go Build 2026 cohort in March. Read more here.

Houston developer launches AI-powered water platform to boost efficiency

eyes on AI

Houston real estate company McCord Development has launched an artificial-Intelligence-run water management platform, MizuWatch.

MizuWatch aims to help operators, districts, and municipalities detect leaks faster, reduce water loss and improve efficiency, according to the company. MizuWatch pulls data from supply sources, smart meters, historical usage and maintenance records, and combines them into a single platform. The AI system also uses visual mapping and digital twin technology to deliver near-real-time system insights.

“MizuWatch brings the right data together daily, so teams can see what’s happening now, intervene earlier and focus their resources where they have the greatest impact,” Jerzy Wielgus, chief product officer for MizuWatch, said in a news release.

MizuWatch was built to “scale across geographies and system sizes to help assist with water scarcity, aging infrastructure, and operational complexity,” according to the company. It was developed at Houston’s Generation Park, McCord’s 4,300-acre master planned commercial district. McCord was able to pilot the platform onsite to help manage its complex, real-world water systems at scale.

“Resilient infrastructure is a key factor for the companies choosing Generation Park,” Ryan McCord, CEO of McCord Development and Founder & CEO of MizuWatch, added in the release. “We made the decision to deploy smart meters, but no one knew how to use the data they generate. This is an opportunity across all infrastructure where sensors are deployed. What started as an internal solution has become a platform we believe can help stakeholders everywhere be more efficient in their operations, investment, and compliance.”

Last fall, Eli Lilly and Co. selected Generation Park for its $6.5 billion manufacturing plant. More than 300 locations in the U.S. competed for the factory. Bristol Myers Squibb Co., another pharmaceutical giant, also announced it is considering Generation Park for a new manufacturing hub earlier this month.

Oil giant BP ousts new chairman over serious conduct concerns

Sudden Exit

BP has ousted its chairman over what it called serious concerns related to “important governance standards, oversight and conduct.”

The departure was abrupt and unexpected, with Albert Manifold having been appointed to the position late last year.

“Albert has helped bring a welcome focus and pace to BP’s transformation," Amanda Blanc, senior independent director, said in a statement Tuesday, May 26. "However, the board has been surprised and disappointed to learn of governance oversight and conduct issues it deems unacceptable and has taken decisive action.”

BP's board named Ian Tyler as interim chair, effective immediately.

BP, based in London and with North American headquarters in Houston, is a “supermajor,” one of the five largest oil production and exploration companies in the world when measured by revenue and profit.

Manifold, who had been the top executive at Dublin-based global building materials company CRH for 10 years, became the chair at BP in October. BP was looking for someone to revamp the oil giant and went with an industry outsider in Manifold, who had made major strategic changes at CRH.

After a new focus on renewable energy at BP in 2020, by 2025 the company was seeking a return to its roots. BP's hard reset was criticized by environmentalists, as well as some shareholders.

CEO Murray Auchincloss said last year that optimism over opportunities in renewable energy was misplaced, with the company moving “too far and too fast.”

Changes in leadership at BP in recent years has been tumultuous.

CEO Bernard Looney resigned in late 2023 after BP determined that he had misled the company over his past relationships with colleagues.

Auchincloss stepped down in December, and the company named Meg O'Neill as his successor.

Manifold’s was challenged almost immediately when shareholders defeated company resolutions this spring that would have allowed BP to reduce climate reporting requirements and move its annual meetings fully online. Some 18% of shareholders voted against Manifold’s election as chairman, a high level of opposition for an appointment that is generally rubber stamped by investors.

Legal & General, one of Britain’s largest insurers and investment companies, said at the time that Manifold was responsible for resolutions that would have had “a negative impact on shareholders’ insight into how the company is addressing financially material long-term risks, and seizing long-term value creation opportunities, associated with the energy transition,” the Times of London reported on April 23.

Glass Lewis, an influential shareholder advisor, urged investors to vote against Manifold’s election. It held that BP took “unprecedented action” by refusing to consider a resolution from a group of climate activists and pension funds hoping to force the board to create an alternative strategy should demand for fossil fuels decline, the Times reported.

Like other big oil companies, BP has struggled with falling demand in recent years.

BP’s 2025 earnings fell 16% from a year earlier to $7.49 billion as the price of Brent crude, a benchmark for international oil prices, dropped 16.9%. The company’s preferred measure of earnings is underlying replacement cost profit, which adjusts for one-time items and fluctuations in the market value of inventories. Net income plunged 86% to $55 million.

Last year there were media reports that British oil giant Shell was in talks to buy rival BP. Shell denied the reports at the time.

The search for a new chair is underway, BP said Tuesday. Shares of BP Plc slid nearly 5% in midday trading on the NYSE.

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