The start-up WattAnyWhere is developing an electricity generator that runs on renewable ethanol. The company reached a decisive milestone in 2025 with a full-scale test at a gas station. Buoyed by the excellent results of this proof of concept, the start-up is now exploring new markets, particularly in the military sector.
WattAnyWhere is fully committed to the energy transition. “We are designing an ethanol-powered electricity generator, using a fuel that is very dense in energy and can be produced locally,” explains Alexandre Laybros, co-founder of the start-up. The goal is clear: “to get rid of fossil fuels in order to generate electricity independently and switch to a fuel that is 100% renewable.” The technology is based on an electrochemical process using a fuel cell, offering very attractive efficiency, up to twice as efficient as a diesel engine.
A conclusive test at Shell
The year 2025 saw a concrete demonstration of WattAnyWhere’s capabilities. “We successfully conducted a full-scale test at a Shell gas station in France, which proved to be a truly relevant proof of concept in all areas,” says Alexandre Laybros.
The WattAnyWhere generator, which comes in the form of a small container, successfully powered the test gas station. But the full-scale experiment also validated several crucial aspects, from transport from Sion to France to the delivery of ethanol by a local producer. “We were able to verify the possibility of working in a short supply chain.”
The speed of deployment is a major advantage. “The system was delivered and up and running in a single day,” emphasizes Alexandre Laybros. This ease of installation makes it possible to respond quickly to energy needs. “It’s a temporary solution that can become permanent because the power grid situation is disastrous in some regions.”
The challenge of fundraising in cleantech and energy in particular
WattAnyWhere is actively seeking investors to finance the final phase of industrialization and commercialization. The situation is particularly complex in the cleantech sector. The geopolitical context further complicates matters. «Geopolitical tensions are enormous. Investors are keeping cash close at hand so they can rescue or help the start-ups in their portfolios as a priority. ».
Faced with these challenges, WattAnyWhere is exploring new opportunities. “We are currently looking into deploying our solution in the military sector,” reveals the co-founder. The “made in Valais” solution is generating a great deal of interest. The electrochemical nature of the process offers a decisive advantage, as it is silent. “This is a crucial point for the military, as is reducing dependence on fossil fuels.” To be continued.
Additional information : www.wattanywhere.com
