Innovative Energy Solutions from Austria
Austrian startup REPS has made headlines by securing $23.6 million in funding to develop a groundbreaking system that converts road traffic into renewable energy. Founded by Alfons Huber in 2023, the company aims to revolutionize energy harvesting through its patented Road Energy Production System.
Transforming Roads into Power Plants
The technology, which captures kinetic energy lost from vehicles, is designed to be implemented on existing road infrastructure. Huber stated, “We will turn roads into a source of green energy and by doing so, we will revolutionize ‘energy harvesting’ and make an important contribution to our climate and energy crisis.” This innovation comes at a critical time as energy prices soar due to global tensions affecting fossil fuel supply.
Efficiency at the Forefront
What sets REPS apart from other systems is its unique energy converter technology, which Huber claims is 254 times more efficient than current market alternatives. He elaborates, “Existing energy harvesting systems have historically failed due to low efficiency, short lifespan, and poor economic viability.” With this new technology, REPS aims to unlock new clean energy markets and significantly improve the economic feasibility of energy harvesting.
Support from Government Officials
Elisabeth Zehetner, Austria’s State Secretary for Energy, Startups, and Tourism, commended REPS for exemplifying the potential of Austrian startups. She emphasized the importance of transforming existing infrastructure into sustainable energy solutions, stating, “A road becomes a power plant.” Zehetner also stressed the need for government support in financing and scaling innovations within Europe.
A Bright Future Ahead
Currently, REPS operates its first commercial system at the Hamburger Container Service in the Port of Hamburg, which has been in operation since November 2025. With a small team of just 12, the startup anticipates expanding its workforce to 50 by the end of the year. Huber concludes, “Importantly, roads are only the first application. The real breakthrough is the platform technology behind it.”
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