Statkraft launches venture capital unit to partner with dynamic start-ups

Statkraft launches venture capital unit to partner with dynamic start-ups

(Düsseldorf/Oslo, 18 May 2015) Statkraft, Europe's largest generator of renewable energy establishes a venture capital unit. Statkraft Ventures GmbH will invest up to
10 million EUR per annum in energy related start-ups. Dr Matthias Dill has been appointed as managing director.

"Statkraft has been a relevant player in shaping the rapid change of energy markets and aims to continue this role in the future. We know that many new business areas will arise and start-ups will get a chance to establish as market leaders in these areas. We see those start-ups as valuable partners. Therefore, we want to contribute to this ecosystem by providing funds to the most promising players. Additionally, we can offer to leverage the synergies between start-ups and the Statkraft Group" says Asbjørn Grundt, Executive Vice President Market Operations & IT at Statkraft.

Statkraft Ventures will be investing as a lead investor. Initial investments will be in the range up to 2.5 million EUR. The fund operates out of Düsseldorf and targets investment opportunities across Europe.

"Our mission is to be the preferred partner for ambitious entrepreneurs", says Dr Matthias Dill, Head of Corporate Venture Capital and Managing Director of Statkraft Ventures GmbH. "Even though capital is an important part for a start-up's sustainable growth, we know that committed founders are the key to success. We strongly believe in the independence of entrepreneurs and support founders as active board members".

Statkraft Ventures GmbH is exit-oriented and invests on common venture capital terms. The company operates in an evergreen structure with the ambition of investing up to
10 million EUR each year. "That would amount to 100 million EUR in the next 10 years, which makes us a long-term reliable partner," adds Dill.

About Statkraft

Statkraft is a leading company in hydropower internationally and Europe's largest generator of renewable energy. The Group produces hydropower, wind power, gas-fired power and district heating and is a global player in energy market operations. Statkraft has 3,700 employees in more than 20 countries.