228. Decentralizing Power: The Rise of Behind-the-Meter Energy - May26

The power system is aging and poorly equipped to handle the rapid, large-scale shift toward renewables. According to Philipp Schröder, CEO of 1KOMMA5°, the real solutions lie “behind the meter.”  Gerard and Laurent sit down with Schröder to unpack what it will take to unlock the so-called “Behind the Meter” revolution.  Schröder is among a small group of European founders aiming to build a vertically integrated, consumer-focused clean energy company—something akin to a European hybrid of Tesla Energy and Sunrun. His approach combines hardware (such as solar PV systems, home batteries, heat pumps, and EV chargers), installation networks, intelligent software (including IoT-driven energy management like “Heartbeat”), and active participation in energy markets.  Software is becoming increasingly critical. Grid management and pricing systems remain outdated and inefficient, especially in Germany, where reform has been slow due to entrenched interests and the slow deployment of smart meters. By contrast, countries like Sweden are already moving ahead with more modern approaches.  The company’s growth appears to validate this strategy. 1KOMMA5° now employs over 3,000 people, is approaching EUR1 billion in annual revenue, and has raised EUR400 million from investors including Eurazeo, CalSTRS, and several prominent family offices.  Key questions remain: How does Schröder position 1KOMMA5° against competitors like Octopus, Enpal, Base, and Thermondo? Is he building the next kind of utility—or deliberately staying outside that model? And how does he navigate policy challenges, particularly when engaging with energy leaders in Germany who remain supportive of fossil fuels?  A fascinating conversation with a formidable entrepreneur who gives back literally “Power to the People”.