Protecting Our Grid Lines

Verdagy, a leading clean hydrogen electrolysis company, has partnered with Mainspring Energy, Inc. to establish a hydrogen-powered linear generator installation in Moss Landing, California. Verdagy’s Moss landing plant has been in operation for four years with more than 20,000 hours of operation with commercial cells and over 200 tons of hydrogen produced. The fully automated, 24/7 plant provides Mainspring constantly available, low-cost hydrogen as a fuel for power generation.

This collaboration establishes a ready hydrogen fuel source for Mainspring’s fuel-flexible linear generators and provides Verdagy with onsite offtake for its hydrogen and electricity to support its electrolyzers operation. The two companies expect to begin operations by summer 2025.

Verdagy and Mainspring Energy are demonstrating how we can improve energy resiliency for the electrical grid, datacenters and other applications,” said Marty Neese, CEO of Verdagy. “This collaboration with Mainspring Energy is a compelling model for clean, flexible, on-site power solutions.

Building on its expertise in producing clean hydrogen at scale, Verdagy is now reducing operational costs by converting hydrogen into power and cycling it back into the facility.

“This agreement presents an excellent opportunity for Mainspring to showcase our linear generator’s capabilities operating on hydrogen and for Verdagy to demonstrate its high resiliency industrial grade production operation,” said Shannon Miller, Mainspring CEO and Founder. “We’re pleased to partner with Verdagy to highlight the significant potential of hydrogen in power generation.”

By powering Mainspring’s Linear Generators with hydrogen produced on-site, the installation demonstrates how low-carbon energy can be deployed at the point of use – critical for enhancing resiliency in grid constrained and mission-critical environments. This co-located model for hydrogen consumption to generate power is crucial as grid constraints grow.

Verdagy | verdagy.com

Mainspring Energy | mainspringenergy.com

In a logistics world racing to electrify, charging infrastructure remains a massive bottleneck - too slow, too expensive, and too dependent on utility timelines. To tackle this challenge, Orange EV, the leading U.S. manufacturer of purpose-built electric Class 8 trucks, has created and invested in OptiGrid, a new U.S.-based company delivering battery-integrated fast charging solutions for fleets.

Headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, OptiGrid eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming grid upgrades with a drop-in platform that pairs ultrafast EV charging with onboard battery storage. Designed specifically for fleet operators, OptiGrid’s solution reduces wait times for deployment, offering high uptime, low maintenance and the lowest total cost of ownership of any DC fast charger.

A Proven Technology with a New Path to Market

OptiGrid builds on the foundational technology developed by FreeWire Technologies, an early pioneer in battery-buffered fast charging. FreeWire’s breakthrough, integrating battery storage, AC-to-DC conversion, power management and fast charger in one self-contained unit, made it possible to deploy ultrafast chargers in power-constrained locations without complex site work or utility delays.

Despite strong interest, FreeWire struggled to manufacture its product affordably and consistently, leading to downtime and rising support costs that ultimately outpaced the company’s ability to sustain operations. Trucking industry veteran Wayne Hoovestol recognized the core value of FreeWire’s technology and acquired its assets, including the intellectual property and engineering team, to focus on solving the issues of manufacturing reliability and serviceability while preserving the benefits of rapid, grid-independent deployment.

Orange EV’s Strategic Backing

To operationalize his vision and accelerate commercialization, Hoovestol partnered with Kurt Neutgens and Wayne Mathisen, the founders of Orange EV, to create OptiGrid. Known for its manufacturing excellence, which produced profitable and highly dependable electric trucks, and its deep customer relationships, Orange EV provides the U.S. manufacturing foundation and market access needed to bring OptiGrid’s reengineered charging platform to fleets at scale.

“We’ve seen firsthand how infrastructure delays can slow down fleet electrification efforts,” said Kurt Neutgens, founder and president at Orange EV. “OptiGrid gives us a turnkey, fleet-ready system with low cost of ownership and the flexibility of optional leasing to reduce capital barriers.”

Today, OptiGrid has a growing team of 50 employees across California, Colorado and Kansas, and is preparing for commercial launch later this year. Orange EV is OptiGrid’s first strategic partner and launch customer, enabling the delivery of seamless electrification for industrial fleets with end-to-end solutions, from vehicle to charger, delivered and supported by a U.S. team.

Proven Leadership and U.S. Operations

Tyler Phillipi, a veteran of the EV charging and mobility tech space, was named OptiGrid CEO in April 2025. He previously led product and growth at FlexCharging, founded Halo Automotive, a Techstars-backed connected vehicle startup, and served as CEO of two other startups. With a background spanning hardware, software and energy services, and three successful exits, he brings deep technical and entrepreneurial experience to OptiGrid’s mission.

“Fleet electrification has outpaced infrastructure, creating a gap that legacy utilities and traditional charging solutions can’t fill fast enough,” Phillipi said. “The next era deserves more than promises; it demands performance. OptiGrid delivers a leap forward: rapid installs, high uptime, and true grid independence made here in the U.S.”

Built for the Realities of Fleet Electrification

OptiGrid chargers deliver ultra-fast EV charging anywhere without the need for costly utility or site upgrades. Each unit includes a 180 kWh battery that charges slowly from the grid or renewables, enabling rapid deployment. Fleet operators benefit from significantly reduced energy costs by avoiding peak demand charges and other energy services, all while maintaining full flexibility to charge when and where needed.

Benefits include:

• Fast deployment: Deployment in days/weeks instead of months/years by avoiding grid upgrades and extensive site construction projects.
• Minimal CapEx: Simple and fast installation minimizes upfront costs, and flexible financing structures can convert CapEx to OpEx.
• Low OpEx: Highly reliable system with minimal downtime controls energy costs by leveraging an integrated battery to avoid demand charges and peak energy rates.
• Flexibility: Deploy charging infrastructure incrementally as the fleet size increases and with the flexibility to relocate charging infrastructure easily if necessary.
• Real-World Proven: Both OptiGrid and Orange EV have hundreds of chargers already deployed. This new release is currently undergoing field validation through Orange EV’s fleet network.
• Vehicle Compatibility: Launching with support for CCS and NACS and backed by a team with combined decades of experience with EV charging to ensure interoperability.
• Smart Management: OptiGrid’s Asset Management Platform (AMP) provides charger station management and monitoring, including data insights available in the platform or via open APIs (OCPP) integrations.

“Our collaboration with Orange EV gives us the ideal proving ground to harden the new product before scaling broadly,” said Phillipi. “We’re deploying early production units through their network to refine performance, improve serviceability, and ensure our solution delivers real value in the field.”

OptiGrid | www.optigridllc.com

Orange EV | https://orangeev.com/

LuminX, an AI-driven company pioneering cutting edge inventory automation and visibility, announced the closure of its $5.5 million seed funding round. This initial funding will accelerate the development and deployment of its solutions for the logistics and warehousing industry. 

The seed round was supported by a multitude of investors, including 1Sharpe, GTMFund, 9Yards, Chingona Ventures, and the Bond Fund.

LuminX addresses critical inefficiencies in supply chain and warehouse management that lead to significant operational costs and errors. The company is at the forefront of solving these issues by developing and deploying its Vision Language Models (VLMs) directly onto low-cost mobile hardware within the warehouse – an approach that makes advanced AI accessible and practical for a wider range of operations.

LuminX systems uniquely integrate sophisticated visual understanding with powerful generative AI capabilities, enabling its cameras to 'see' and interpret complex, dynamic warehouse environments in real-time—recognizing products, varied labels, assessing package conditions, and tracking movement. These versatile devices can be deployed anywhere in the warehouse, including docks, conveyors, on forklifts, or as handheld units. LuminX’s system intelligently processes this visual information to automate intricate operational tasks, eliminate manual work, and provide actionable data for drastically reducing discrepancies and optimizing overall workflow.

LuminX is led by founder and CEO Alex Kaveh Senemar, a seasoned entrepreneur with a proven track record of building and scaling successful AI companies across several industries. He previously founded and led Voxel (voxelai.com), a pioneering AI company in warehouse safety and operations, and prior to that, founded Sherbit, which was successfully acquired by Huma (huma.com) in 2019. He is joined by co-founder & CTO Reza (Mamrez) Javanmardi, Ph.D. in Computer Science and former Head of AI Research at Voxel, whose career spans impactful R&D in machine learning and computer vision across startups and research institutions. 

The LuminX team brings a wealth of knowledge and deep expertise in AI, specifically in Vision Language Models, computer vision, and robotics, with many members having ties to leading research institutions like Carnegie Mellon University. The team's established track record and vision have garnered strong support. Significant participation in the funding round also came from previous investors in Voxel and customers, underscoring deep confidence in LuminX's advanced technological approach.

"This pivotal funding allows us to scale our next-generation AI models, transforming how warehouses operate," said Alex Kaveh Senemar. "Our edge based vision language models represent a massive step forward, acting as an intelligent core for warehouse operations. They deliver new levels of automation and insight, helping to turn previously opaque processes into transparent highly efficient systems."

LuminX is experiencing strong early traction, with many warehouses using the technology. One such early adopter is Vertical Cold Storage. Robert Bascom, COO of Vertical Cold Storage, commented on their experience: "LuminX's technology is set to revolutionize our warehouse productivity and operations. It's allowing us to automate critical tasks, significantly enhance quality, and reduce claims." He added, "In my entire career, I have yet to encounter a product that so effectively improves efficiency while simultaneously boosting quality and reliability."

Kat Collins of 1Sharpe Capital, a key investor, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Edge-deployed vision-language models are breaking the two toughest bottlenecks in logistics—labor scarcity and data blindness. By turning a low-cost camera into a perceptive co-worker that sees, understands, and acts in real time, LuminX is unlocking a step-change in operational intelligence and efficiency for every pallet, conveyer, and forklift."

The newly acquired funds will be strategically invested in advancing LuminX's core research and development in Vision Language Models for logistics, further optimizing them for edge deployment, expanding its specialized engineering talent, and scaling go-to-market activities.  

LuminX | luminxai.com

esVolta, LP ("esVolta") announced the hiring of Tonja L. Wicks as Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs. Wicks will lead esVolta’s federal, state and regional regulatory and policy teams. By engaging with policymakers in support of policies and market rules that enable the beneficial deployment of energy storage, she will play a key role in enabling access to sustainable energy storage and enhancing grid reliability, resource adequacy and energy affordability for communities across our nation.

Wicks will also advance esVolta’s industry partnerships to advocate for energy storage on Capitol Hill as a part of the “all of the above” energy strategy that supports esVolta’s mission to help maintain our national security, economic competitiveness, energy independence and digital leadership as electricity demand grows amid retirement of thermal generation resources, prolific growth of data centers, and electrification of industries.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Tonja to our team at such a critical time for the energy storage industry and in our nation’s energy journey. I’m confident that she will create and expand pathways for esVolta, and the wider energy storage industry, by enhancing engagement  with regulators, policymakers, and communities,” said Randolph Mann, CEO, esVolta. “Battery energy storage is helping to meet our nation’s need for energy resiliency, and we plan to work closely with federal, state and regional governments to help achieve this critical goal.”

Wicks brings 20 years of experience, leadership and vision in the utility, IPP, and renewable energy industries, having most recently worked as Vice President of Regulatory Affairs for battery energy storage startup Elevate Renewables. Tonja holds an MBA from American University and an MA in Public Policy and BA in Political Science degrees from Howard University in Washington, DC. She is based in Pittsburgh, PA.

esVolta | www.esvolta.com

Technology group Wärtsilä announced an expansion of its U.S. and North American footprint with the establishment of the Houston Logistics Center (HLC), located at the company’s North American headquarters in Houston, Texas. 

Set to become operational in Summer 2025, the HLC is designed to support Wärtsilä’s customer base and growing fleet of operating engine power plants across the United States. The facility will enable faster delivery of engine inspection-dependent and critical components for Wärtsilä’s wide variety of power generation solutions—ensuring customers experience reduced downtime and enhanced responses during maintenance activities or unexpected operational interruptions. By housing these materials locally, the HLC enhances Wärtsilä’s ability to quickly respond to urgent customer needs and provide U.S. customers with timely access to engine parts. 

The decision to locate the facility in Houston was intentional, placing Wärtsilä at the center of the U.S. energy sector. This strategic investment supports the U.S. economy by strengthening local operations, nearshoring critical supply chains, and delivering reliable energy solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of American utilities, industrial operators, and communities working toward a more sustainable future.   

“The launch of the HLC underscores our long-term commitment to the U.S. market and marks a significant milestone in our mission to meet the region’s growing power needs with speed, precision, and reliability,” said Risto Paldanius, Vice President, Americas, Wärtsilä Energy. “The new HLC, combined with the strength of our Houston Expertise Center, deepens our ability to deliver fast, local, and comprehensive support to power plant operators across the U.S.” 

The HLC further builds on Wärtsilä’s U.S. presence alongside its Houston Expertise Center (HEC), which delivers 24/7 remote support to its U.S. and Canadian energy sector customers with unmatched guidance, real-time data analytics, and quick response to power plant issues.

The HLC is part of Wärtsilä Global Logistics Services, operating in more than thirty countries with the central spare part distribution center based in Kampen, Netherlands, and satellite warehouses in Singapore; Ft. Lauderdale and Houston, U.S.; Quito, Ecuador, and Niteroi, Brazil.

Wärtsilä has a strong presence in the U.S., establishing its operations there in 1979. Wärtsilä North America, Inc. employs more than 900 professionals in 11 regional locations serving the energy, maritime, and oil & gas markets in the United States. The company has installed nearly 6 GW of power generation capacity in the U.S. and provides full lifecycle services for these industry segments.

Wärtsilä Energy |www.wartsila.com/energy

Aventis Energy Inc. (“Aventis” or the “Company”)(CSE: AVE | FRA: C0O0 | OTC: VBAMF), is pleased to announce that Mr. Michael Mulberry has been appointed to the board of directors of the Company. Mr. Mulberry has also been appointed as an independent member of the Audit Committee. Mr. Todd Hanas will be stepping down from his position as a board member, and the Company wishes him well in his future endeavors.

Mr. Mulberry, former Director and CEO at Medaro Mining Corp. (2022-2025) and President of Copper Cowboy Resources Inc. (2008-2022) and bringing over 20 years of experience working with mining exploration companies, commented, “I’m very excited to join Aventis Energy at this pivotal stage of its growth as it emerges as a potential prominent contributor to the energy transition. I believe my experience will strengthen the team’s ability to execute work programs and drive the Company forward.”

Mr. Mulberry’s background includes several management positions such as President, CEO and Director of Roogold Inc. (2018-2022), and director and/or officer at Secova Metals Corp., Westkam Gold Corp. and World Organics Inc. Additionally, Mr. Mulberry has provided geo-technical services, project management, logistics and technical support to numerous mining exploration companies. Most recently, Mr. Mulberry was Founder, Director and President of FenexOro Gold Corp. (2017-2020) and Founder, Director, and Chief Financial Officer of Benjamin Hill Gold Corp.

Mandeep Parmar, Interim Chief Executive Officer & Director of the Company, commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Mulberry to our Board of Directors. We are confident that Mr. Mulberry’s experience and contributions will be of great benefit to the Company, and we are committed to continue building value for our shareholders. We would also like to thank Mr. Hanas for his contributions to the Company and wish him well in his future ventures.” 

Aventis Energy I https://aventisenergy.com/

The American Clean Power Association (ACP) announced that Tara Hupman will join ACP as Vice President of External Affairs, effective June 3. A talented congressional and public policy strategist, Hupman has strong expertise and experience across key congressional committees. She brings more than a decade of senior-level experience on Capitol Hill, and will strengthen ACP’s advocacy and political engagement at a critical time for the clean energy industry. 

“Tara is a highly respected leader with deep relationships across Congressional leadership and the committees that shape America’s energy future,” said Frank Macchiarola, ACP Chief Advocacy Officer. “Her skill and experience will be instrumental in advancing our advocacy priorities. Our industry is the fastest growing part of the energy sector and to meet growing electricity demand, we need policies in place to accelerate the deployment of additional clean power. Tara will play a critical role in helping to make this happen. I’m pleased to welcome Tara to the ACP team.” 

In her new role, Hupman will help lead ACP’s government affairs strategy, including federal outreach, PAC operations, and mobilization efforts. She will also work closely with ACP’s state affairs team to ensure alignment between state and federal advocacy priorities. 

Hupman most recently served as General Counsel to the House Republican Conference under Chairwoman Lisa McClain. She also previously served as Chief Counsel for the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Natural Resources Committee. Additionally, she held counsel roles on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Small Business Committee, and served as a professional staff member on the Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs. 

American Clean Power Association | cleanpower.org