Algiecel

Algiecel, founded in 2021, operates in the carbon capture and utilization (CCU) market, offering a biosolution for decarbonization. The company was established by Henrik Busch-Larsen, who previously co-founded and scaled Unibio, a company that converts methane into protein. This background in creating sustainable protein from gas feedstocks provided a direct line of experience for Algiecel's mission. Busch-Larsen identified a market gap for cost-effective, scalable carbon capture solutions for small- to medium-sized emitters, which larger projects often overlook.

The firm's business model centers on providing 'carbon capture as a service'. Algiecel installs its proprietary, containerized photobioreactors at the sites of CO2-emitting clients, such as biogas and fermentation plants. These modular units use photosynthesis, powered by LED lights and renewable electricity, to convert captured CO2 into microalgae biomass. This turnkey solution is managed entirely by Algiecel, from construction to operation. Revenue is generated through two primary streams: long-term contracts for the sale of high-value microalgae ingredients and a fee for sourcing CO2 from industrial partners. The model can also involve revenue sharing with the CO2 supplier from the sale of the derivative products, transforming a cost center into a potential profit opportunity for the client.

The core product is the microalgae biomass itself, which is processed into several valuable components. The resulting output includes a protein-rich fraction for aquaculture and pet food, an omega-3 oil fraction for cosmetics and dietary supplements, and a nutrient-rich press cake for animal feed. These end-products are vegan and rich in vitamins and carotenoids, catering to the growing demand for sustainable ingredients in the feed, food, and personal care industries. To optimize output, the company utilizes natural mutagenesis and gene editing to select the ideal microalgae species for specific applications. After launching its pilot plant in 2022, Algiecel secured approximately €1.3 million in seed funding in early 2023 and a further €6.5 million in late 2024 to construct its first full-scale demonstration unit.

Keywords: carbon capture and utilization, CCU, microalgae, photobioreactor, biosolutions, decarbonization, sustainable ingredients, omega-3 oil, aquaculture feed, CO2 conversion, circular economy, industrial emissions, biogas upgrading, fermentation off-gas, carbon as a service, Henrik Busch-Larsen, modular carbon capture, algae biomass, sustainable protein, green technology, cleantech, biotech