Offgrid Energy Labs, an energy storage solutions startup, has raised $15 million in its Series A funding round. Archean Chemical Industries, a major speciality chemicals manufacturer, led the round. Existing investor Ankur Capital also joined the funding. This fresh capital marks a milestone for the startup, which aims to change the way industries and communities use and store energy.
Founders with a Shared Vision
The startup came to life in 2018 through the vision of four entrepreneurs: Tejas Kusurkar, Rishi Srivastava, Brindan Tulachan, and Ankur Agarwal. They saw the urgent need for sustainable and affordable energy storage in India and across the globe. By combining their expertise in engineering, science, and business, they set out to develop solutions that could reduce reliance on fossil fuels, enable cleaner grids, and make energy access more inclusive.
Focus on Three Core Applications
Offgrid Energy Labs focuses on three specific applications for its stationary energy storage solutions. The first application is peak shifting, which helps industries and utilities reduce their energy costs by storing power during off-peak hours and using it during peak demand. The second application is net-zero industrial electricity, which supports factories and plants in running on renewable energy and cutting down emissions. The third is decentralised off-the-grid energy solutions, which brings reliable power to rural and remote regions where grid access remains poor or absent.
ZinGel Technology at the Core
At the heart of Offgrid’s innovation lies its proprietary ZinGel technology. This new type of battery uses a zinc-based gel electrolyte that offers a safer, more durable, and more sustainable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries. ZinGel batteries do not depend on scarce raw materials like cobalt or nickel, which often face supply chain challenges and ethical sourcing issues. Instead, they rely on zinc, an abundant and recyclable material.
The technology also addresses safety concerns. ZinGel batteries reduce the risks of fire and thermal runaway, which often plague lithium-ion systems. They can also withstand more charge and discharge cycles, which makes them suitable for long-term industrial use. These features position Offgrid Energy Labs as a strong contender in the growing global market for energy storage.
Setting Up a UK Demo Facility
Co-founders Rishi Srivastava and Tejas Kusurkar announced that most of the new funding will go into setting up a 10 megawatt hour demo manufacturing facility in the UK. This facility will serve as a test-bed for ZinGel-equipped batteries before the company scales up for commercialisation. The choice of the UK highlights the company’s ambition to make a global impact, as Europe remains a leader in renewable energy adoption and energy storage demand.
By showcasing its technology in a developed market, Offgrid Energy Labs plans to prove its scalability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness to investors, customers, and regulators worldwide.
Archean Chemical’s Strategic Backing
Archean Chemical Industries, which led the funding, brings more than capital. As a leading speciality chemicals manufacturer, Archean has deep experience in scaling industrial processes, managing raw material supply chains, and building global partnerships. Its involvement provides Offgrid with both strategic resources and credibility.
Ankur Capital, an early investor, reaffirmed its confidence by participating again. This signals trust in Offgrid’s progress and long-term growth potential. Together, the two investors create a support system that goes beyond financing and helps the startup navigate both technical and commercial challenges.
Tapping into a Growing Market
Energy storage is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world today. With more renewable energy entering grids and governments pushing for net-zero goals, demand for reliable and sustainable storage solutions has surged. According to industry reports, the global energy storage market could grow more than tenfold in the next decade.
India alone faces a massive need for storage, as it seeks to meet its renewable energy targets of 500 GW by 2030. Industrial consumers also face rising electricity costs and stricter emission rules. Solutions like Offgrid’s ZinGel batteries can help them manage both. At the same time, rural electrification remains a key challenge in India and many parts of Africa. Decentralised storage systems can bridge this gap and support inclusive growth.
Competitive Landscape
Offgrid Energy Labs competes with both global giants and local startups. Lithium-ion still dominates the market, with companies like Tesla, CATL, and LG Chem leading large-scale storage. However, rising raw material costs and environmental concerns have created space for alternatives. Zinc-based, sodium-based, and flow batteries are gaining attention as promising substitutes.
In India, startups such as Fluence Energy, AmpereHour Energy, and Nexcharge are exploring different battery chemistries and business models. Offgrid stands out with its focus on ZinGel technology and its aim to combine industrial applications with rural solutions. This dual focus broadens its customer base and impact.
Roadmap for the Future
With the UK demo facility as a stepping stone, Offgrid Energy Labs plans to launch commercial production soon after validation. The founders aim to partner with utilities, large industrial groups, and governments to roll out ZinGel batteries at scale. They also plan to explore licensing models, where other manufacturers can adopt the ZinGel technology under Offgrid’s guidance.
In India, the company looks to deploy decentralised energy storage units in villages, healthcare centres, and small industries that face frequent power cuts. These units can run on solar power during the day and store excess energy for use at night, improving both productivity and quality of life.
Challenges Ahead
Despite strong potential, Offgrid faces several challenges. Scaling up manufacturing of a new battery technology takes significant capital, expertise, and patience. Convincing large customers to switch from established lithium-ion solutions to a relatively new product also requires consistent proof of performance and reliability.
Policy and regulatory frameworks in India and abroad will also play a role. Incentives for alternative chemistries, subsidies for renewable energy integration, and strict emission targets can accelerate adoption. However, delays in approvals or inconsistent policy shifts can slow growth.
Founders’ Commitment
The co-founders remain committed to their vision. Rishi Srivastava, who brings strong experience in battery research and engineering, leads technology development. Tejas Kusurkar focuses on business strategy and partnerships. Together with Brindan Tulachan and Ankur Agarwal, they form a team that combines technical depth with entrepreneurial drive. Their belief in ZinGel technology and its potential to serve diverse markets keeps the company moving forward.
A Step Toward Sustainable Energy
Offgrid Energy Labs’ Series A funding represents more than just financial growth. It shows that investors now value innovative alternatives in energy storage and recognise the importance of diversifying beyond lithium-ion. By focusing on zinc-based batteries and decentralised energy solutions, Offgrid takes a bold step toward making energy more sustainable, accessible, and safe.
The coming years will test its ability to scale, compete, and prove its commercial viability. If successful, the startup could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of clean energy, both in India and abroad.
Also Read – Startup Visas: Where to Incorporate?