Future Voltaics wins 2nd edition of Colmeia with solar project in Matosinhos. | Upcoming Energies

Spanish startup Future Voltaics was the winner of the second edition of Colmeia , a collaborative innovation program promoted by Galp Upcoming Energies, the Galp Foundation, and the Municipality of Matosinhos. The initiative challenges startups to implement and scale decarbonization projects in Matosinhos.

The final ceremony was attended by Manuel Andrade (Head of Open Innovation at Galp) and Sandra Aparício (Executive Director of the Galp Foundation). The winning proposal involves the installation of an innovative photovoltaic system at João Gonçalves Zarco Secondary School, enabling annual energy savings of over €4,000 and providing direct benefits to the school community.

The proposed technology, Vecthor, features vertical bifacial solar panels with reflectors, maximizing energy production during periods of higher demand and value. The project will unfold in four phases over 14 months and includes awareness initiatives, training sessions, and real-time data sharing with students.

Another Spanish startup, Inergy BCN, came in second with an AI-based energy community management solution. Portuguese startup Nilg.AI took third place and will apply its AI tool in Matosinhos to optimize urban mobility and infrastructure management.

This year’s edition of Colmeia gathered 95 startups from 20 countries. The program reinforces Galp’s and Matosinhos’ commitment to innovation and decarbonization, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships.