Solar Brother

Solar Brother, founded in 2016 by Gilles Gallo and Gatien Brault, specializes in the design and sale of concentrated solar power products. The company's genesis traces back to a 2003 trip to Timbuktu by Gilles Gallo, who, after a career in finance, was inspired to pursue a more humanistic project focused on solar thermal technology. This experience led him to partner with Gatien Brault, an arts and materials engineer, to democratize solar energy. Together, they leverage over two decades of combined experience in solar technology, from large-scale thermal plants to consumer products.

The company operates in the household appliance and recreational goods market, targeting environmentally conscious consumers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those interested in sustainable living. Its business model involves direct-to-consumer sales through its website and a network of nearly 300 retailers in Europe, with a growing presence in Japan and plans for expansion into the U.S. and German markets. Solar Brother also embraces an open-source philosophy, making self-build plans for its products freely available to foster a community of co-creation and knowledge sharing. Revenue is generated from the sale of its products, which include solar ovens, barbecues, lighters, chargers, and dryers. The company offers payment installment options through a partnership with Klarna.

Solar Brother's product line is designed in France and focuses on simplicity and performance. Key products include the SunGood solar cooker, the Sungood 360, and the Suncase solar lighter, several of which have received awards at the Lépine competition. These items utilize concentrated solar power, captured through parabolic mirror systems, to cook food, heat water, or start fires without flames, smoke, or carbon emissions. The products are portable and designed for a variety of settings, from urban balconies to outdoor camping. The company has sold over 110,000 units and has received support from BPI Innovation Export and investments from firms like ENGIE Rassembleurs d'Energies and Mandarine Gestion to fuel its international growth.

Keywords: concentrated solar power, solar cooking, outdoor gear, sustainable products, renewable energy consumer goods, solar ovens, solar lighters, eco-friendly appliances, solar barbecue, off-grid solutions, solar chargers, product design, open-source hardware, DIY solar projects, solar thermal technology, portable solar cookers, adventure equipment, solar dehydrators, French tech, sustainable living