Pioneering Climate Fintech with a Bold Vision
Berlin-based climate fintech Bees & Bears has secured €500 million in financing commitments to accelerate the adoption of sustainable home energy solutions across Germany. This significant funding will enable the installation of nearly 25,000 photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, energy storage units, and EV chargers, advancing the country’s renewable energy goals.
This financing milestone follows a successful venture capital round last year, which was finalized with legal support from Linklaters. With this commitment, Bees & Bears cements its status as Germany’s most prominent independent financing partner for photovoltaic systems and heat pumps.
Democratizing Access to Clean Energy Financing
Historically, homeowners seeking financing for solar power and energy-efficient systems faced limited options, primarily controlled by large industry players. Bees & Bears disrupts this model by offering flexible payment options and allowing customers to choose their preferred contractors, thereby leveling the playing field for small and medium-sized installers.
“Our approach removes barriers for customers and empowers independent contractors,” said Marius Schondelmaier, Co-founder and CEO of Bees & Bears. “By combining deferred payment options with contractor flexibility, we make renewable energy solutions more accessible than ever.”
Addressing the Climate Financing Gap
Bees & Bears was founded in 2023 by Jakob von Egidy and Marius Schondelmaier. Their mission is to bridge the €4 trillion annual investment gap in sustainability. Their vision is to make sustainable energy financing as simple as car loans.
- Jakob von Egidy, an experienced startup CFO, is committed to combating climate change through financial innovation.
- Marius Schondelmaier, formerly with Rocket Internet, brings expertise in scaling digital platforms and transforming energy finance.
A Seamless, Fast, and Inclusive Financing Model
Bees & Bears provides instant financing solutions for private customers installing solar panels, heat pumps, and EV chargers. Through a seamless digital process, credit checks are completed within minutes, ensuring quick approvals for homeowners.
“Our financing model is a game-changer,” explains von Egidy. “Traditional banks recognize the potential of this market but struggle with small loan sizes and demand for rapid approvals. We’ve designed a hassle-free process that makes switching to renewable energy as easy as buying a car.”
How the Bees & Bears Financing Model Works:
- Contractors prepare quotes for photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, or EV chargers.
- Financial details and customer information are entered into the Bees & Bears platform.
- Real-time credit checks ensure installment financing approval within minutes.
- Government subsidies are pre-financed, reducing upfront costs for homeowners.
This streamlined approach benefits customers, contractors, and financial institutions, making climate-friendly home upgrades more accessible.
Unlocking Capital for a Greener Future
“Infusing an additional €500 million into the renewable energy sector is a transformative step,” said Jördis Heckt-Harbeck, financing expert at Linklaters. “Not only does this boost adoption of sustainable technologies, but it also shifts financial institutions toward greener investment strategies.”
As Germany races toward its climate goals, Bees & Bears leads the charge, proving that innovative financing is the key to an accelerated energy transition.
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