By The vibrant city of Sydney set the scene for a week of bold energy innovation at the Free Electrons 2025 Bootcamp, hosted by Origin Energy. Seven leading utility companies – CLP, EDP, E.ON, ESB, Hydro Québec, Jera and Origin Energy, and thirty of the most promising startups came together over four dynamic days to explore opportunities, spark collaborations and shape what’s next in the journey toward a net-zero future.
Day 1: Big Conversations, Local Insights and First Sparks
Sydney gave us a warm welcome and we hit the ground running. At Origin Energy’s headquarters, the Free Electrons Bootcamp opened with buzzing energy and the unmistakable excitement of a global community coming together in person.
Startups kicked off the day with a series of hands-on masterclasses, gaining deep insight into the Australian energy ecosystem, investment landscape, and tools to shape upcoming collaboration opportunities. The sessions also gave startups space to reflect on their positioning, ask tough questions, and prepare for the conversations that would unfold throughout the week
But the day was not just about knowledge; it was also about starting connections. The afternoon brought everyone together for a relaxed networking moment, offering a first opportunity to kick off meaningful conversations. Some of Free Electrons’ startup alumni were present to share their experiences of working with utility partners and shared invaluable tips for the new cohort.
Day 2: Challenges Shared, Solutions Unleashed
Fresh from first connections, participants turned their attention to the challenges at hand. The morning began with reverse pitches, offering direct insight into their most pressing challenges and where they’re actively seeking innovation. From grid flexibility and digitalisation to electrification and customer-focused solutions, the message was loud and clear: collaboration is not a buzzword but a necessity.
Startups then stepped into the spotlight, presenting their solutions across four tightly packed pitch rounds. Bold and practical technologies were showcased going from AI-powered analytics to asset health monitoring to novel storage and next-generation transmission systems. By the time the final pitch wrapped, the energy in the room was unmistakable.
Day 3 and 4: Deep Dives and Dialogue
The Bootcamp moved into its most hands-on phase, with two full days on one-on-one meetings between startups and utilities. These sessions created space for use case exploration and the early building blocks of potential pilots.
Amid the back-to-back meetings, energiser moments and informal chats helped keep the pace and spark unexpected insights, with startups also joining tailored debriefs to reflect on their conversations and refine next steps.
As the program wrapped up, both sides came together to share key takeaways, align on follow-ups and toast to a week filled with meaningful dialogue and real momentum.
Looking Ahead
As the Bootcamp came to a close, the energy in the room was anything but winding down. With conversation still unfolding and next steps in motion, it was clear that this was just the beginning.
Fifteen startups will now advance to the Master Module in Hong Kong, hosted by CLP this July where they’ll reconnect with utility partners to dive deeper into collaboration opportunities, sharpen pilot proposals and continue building momentum on a global stage.
For all participants, Bootcamp marked a pivotal step, one filled with clarity, connection and the kind of focus that drives real outcomes.
The journey continues and it’s only getting more exciting from here onwards.
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