Formed in 2013 in New York, United Wind installs, operates and maintains wind turbines under a leasing scheme involving no upfront cost. The power generated by the turbines is either used by the customers themselves or sold to the grid. Customers therefore pay less for use of renewable energy than electricity provided by utility companies. United Wind started out in New York State and is now expanding into the Midwest, notably in Colorado, Kansas and Minnesota.
“This latest investment strengthens TEV’s participation in the distribution of renewable energy. It allows us to explore the interest in small-scale renewable energy solutions which can be connected to the grid and how these can be financed,” commented Jérôme Schmitt, Executive Vice President, Sustainable Development & Environment at Total. “United Wind makes wind power accessible to customers and small businesses who become energy producers and consumers at the same time.”
The funding round is intended to finance United Wind’s expansion. TEV will sit on the company’s Board of Directors as an observer.
Total Energy Ventures is Total’s venture capital arm for investing in energy start-ups. Its investments support the development of innovative businesses in areas such as renewable energies, energy efficiency, energy storage, digital energy and sustainable transportation.
