Piotr Ostaszewski: We see the future in green colors

Interview with Piotr Ostaszewski, CEO of Ekovoltis (eV)

Your company creates modern solutions from the green tech segment that enable the purchase of environmentally friendly energy on transparent terms. What exactly is your business and how is your offer structured?

We exclusively provide energy generated from renewable sources to our clients. These forward-thinking individuals and businesses have made the conscious choice to distance themselves from coal and gas-derived energy. However, not all of them are ready to invest in constructing their own renewable energy installations. That’s where we come in. By entering into contracts with us for the supply of green energy, our clients can rest assured that their offices, factories, warehouses, shops, and other facilities are solely powered by environmentally-friendly sources.

While some companies opt to reduce their environmental footprint by installing photovoltaic systems, this endeavor requires substantial investments, time, and doesn’t necessarily guarantee complete independence from fossil fuels. This is where our solution shines. At Ekovoltis, we offer a simpler path — the switch to our energy supply services.

Our role lies in connecting producers of green energy with its intended recipients: our customers. We achieve this by utilizing various technological solutions that streamline collaboration under this model. Entrepreneurs can now embrace the knowledge that making a single decision and signing one contract is all it takes to steer their businesses towards harmonious coexistence with nature. Through Ekovoltis, major energy consumers can engage in cPPS (corporate Power Purchase Agreement) agreements, forming long-term contracts directly with the producers of renewable energy. This approach ensures a seamless and sustainable energy supply for businesses and further accelerates the transition to a greener future.

A complete shift away from fossil fuels is necessary not only for a stable business environment, but also for the natural environment. Reducing the carbon footprint means slowing down climate change and a cleaner environment, and green energy itself is free from fluctuations in raw material prices. This is not only a way to save money, but also an investment in the image of a company that is friendly to nature and socially responsible this is important not only for customers but also for investors.

Where did the idea for such a project come from?

Transitioning away from fossil fuels is crucial not just for maintaining a stable business landscape, but also for preserving our natural surroundings. By decreasing our carbon footprint, we not only slow down the progression of climate change but also create a cleaner environment. Additionally, green energy remains unaffected by the fluctuations in prices of raw materials. This shift isn’t merely a cost-saving measure; it’s an investment in a company’s reputation as an environmentally conscious and socially responsible entity. This aspect holds significance not only for customers but also for investors.

Incorporating green energy into operations can also play a pivotal role in meeting emissions reduction targets and enhancing air quality, particularly for industrial firms. The combined effect of these factors signifies that the advantages of adopting green energy are substantial, offering companies a multitude of enduring benefits in the long run.

However, calculating the carbon footprint is not only the domain of entrepreneurs. Each of us leaves this trace. Such awareness allows us to make more rational decisions. Car or bus, train or plane, lettuce or meat, and so on? If we multiply each of these small decisions by the billions of people living on Earth, we will make a big difference.

What is a guarantee of origin?

The guarantee of origin stands as the sole document that validates to its holder that the indicated amount of electricity was indeed produced using renewable energy sources. It also certifies the environmental benefits attained by avoiding greenhouse gas emissions through this means. Consequently, it serves as a tool for recipients to align with their environmental strategies concerning the integration of their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) metrics. These metrics are essential for acquiring fitting non-financial assessments, which have become essential for effective engagement within markets and interactions with entities across Western Europe.

In the upcoming two years, the obligation to report on ESG performance will encompass all publicly listed companies and large-scale enterprises. This shift will lead to a substantial surge in demand for both renewable energy and, consequently, for guarantees of origin.

Why should you count your carbon footprint?

Certain companies are already legally obligated to track and disclose their environmental impact, which includes their carbon emissions. Other businesses might choose to engage in such monitoring for internal purposes, aiming to identify areas for improvements or pinpoint major sources of pollution. This process facilitates the establishment of specific, measurable goals and the subsequent monitoring of their attainment. Notably, customers and partners are increasingly taking notice of these efforts.

Nevertheless, quantifying one’s carbon footprint is not solely the responsibility of business owners. Every individual contributes to this footprint. This consciousness empowers us to make more thoughtful decisions: car versus bus, train versus plane, opting for lettuce over meat, and so forth. The ripple effect of each of these seemingly modest choices, when multiplied across the billions of individuals inhabiting our planet, can indeed result in a substantial impact.

What are the benefits of participating in Demand Side Response programs for enterprises?

After transitioning to green energy, the next logical step for companies is to embrace Demand Side Response (DSR), which involves managing electricity demand temporarily as requested by the national power system operator, in this case, Polskie Sieci Elektroenergetyczne. This capability comes with compensation for being prepared to offer this service. What’s noteworthy for entities engaged in DSR programs is the chance to join a community of entrepreneurs dedicated to enhancing the energy security of the country.

What points toward the transformation of the Polish energy market through green tech? The influence of green tech extends beyond Poland and shapes the global energy landscape. Within Poland, the momentum of energy transformation is escalating, with substantial investments slated for renewable sources like offshore projects in the Baltic Sea. The recognition of green energy as a cornerstone for diverse security and independence is deepening. This meshes with the advancements in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, machine learning, and other technologies, leading to the emergence of new standard solutions that were previously unattainable. It’s a source of contentment that as proponents of green tech, we can harness these advancements for the environment’s benefit and the satisfaction of our customers.

The e ² V team consists of experienced specialists who have been present in the renewable energy industry almost from its beginning. We use mathematical models, artificial intelligence and weather models to make cooperation with both producers and consumers of green energy as easy as possible.

What is the source of your company’s success?

People and technology are at the heart of the e2V team. Our experts boast extensive experience in the renewable energy sector, having been involved almost since its inception. Leveraging mathematical models, artificial intelligence, and weather forecasting, we strive to simplify collaborations with both producers and consumers of green energy. It’s worth noting that we’re a part of the MS Galleon GmbH group, under the ownership of Michał Sołowow. This conglomerate encompasses renowned companies like Cersanit SA, Barlinek SA, Synthos SA, and players in the energy sector such as Synthos Green Energy SA and Corab SA.

With this remarkable blend of experience, expertise, and capabilities, we excel at accurately predicting energy prices. This proficiency allows us to provide competitive terms and deliver the finest green energy proposition available in the market.

How do you see the future of the industry in which your company operates?

We envision a vibrant future painted in shades of green! Our belief is rooted in the fact that Poland’s renewable energy sector is poised for further dynamic expansion, despite consistently setting new records each passing year. A fresh wave of entrepreneurs and leaders places significant emphasis on their company’s carbon footprint and environmental influence. Additionally, consumers are increasingly inclined to opt for eco-conscious products and services that align with nature. Importantly, this isn’t just a passing fad but rather a lasting transformation that will shape our journey for years to come.

What are the challenges and development prospects for you?

Certain experts express valid concerns regarding the synchronization of power grids with the rapid growth of Renewable Energy Sources (RES). It’s undeniable that the augmentation and modernization of these grids stand as indispensable elements for executing ambitious plans, both for our company and others within the industry. As the proportion of green energy in the energy mix rises, the demand for substantial energy storage also escalates. Unfortunately, Poland lags behind in investments in this domain. Furthermore, regulatory hurdles still persist, hindering the swifter expansion of green energy sources. Overcoming these barriers is essential for facilitating even more accelerated growth within the sector.

Green energy in every company and home. Such a vision is our dream, although in the perspective of five years it may be too bold.

What goals do you want to achieve in the next five years of operation?

Imagining green energy powering every company and household is a powerful aspiration, even though achieving this vision within the next five years might be overly ambitious. The trajectory of the industry and the broader economy is challenging to foresee. Nevertheless, we are steadfastly dedicated to taking every possible step in the upcoming years to inch closer to turning this vision into reality. By doing so, we are actively safeguarding the future of generations to come.

e2V/ Ecovoltis

e2V/Ekovoltis specializes in trading energy sourced exclusively from renewable sources. Our role is to bridge the gap between green energy producers and those seeking to harness it. We provide tailored solutions for businesses ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises to large recipients. Additionally, we collaborate closely with energy producers through long-term cPPA (Corporate Power Purchase Agreement) contracts. Our overarching goal is to steer the energy market towards decarbonization, ensuring a clean and secure planet for generations to come.

As a part of Michał Sołowow’s capital group, we are aligned with a collective committed to security, financial strength, and operational reliability. The group encompasses prominent companies such as Ceresanit, Barlinek, Synthos, Synthos Green Energy, and Corab.