PHENOGY AG outlines growth strategy in Columbia, strengthening City’s role in clean energy innovation
February 19, 2025
PHENOGY AG, a Swiss-based energy storage startup, outlined its growth strategy in Columbia, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub for clean energy innovation.
“Columbia is the ideal launchpad for PHENOGY’s U.S. expansion, and we are already seeing strong interest in our mission and growth,” said PHENOGY AG founder and CEO Peter E. Braun. “We are taking a strategic, long-term approach to workforce development — partnering with the University of South Carolina on research and manufacturing, identifying top talent through internships and engaging experienced professionals to help shape our future.”
Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brennan
Following its announcement in January that Columbia would be the site of its U.S. headquarters, the company outlined plans for expansion and collaboration with local institutions to advance next-generation battery storage solutions during a press conference with Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brenan, along with the support of the Columbia World Affairs Council, University of South Carolina and Columbia Metropolitan Airport.
“If you want to do something anywhere in the world, you can do it right here in the City of Columbia,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Will Brennan. “We are committed to grow and incubate companies to shine here in our City. Our vision is that we are the best destination for all entrepreneurs and by working collaboratively with our partners like Richland County, University of South Carolina, Columbia Metropolitan Airport and the Columbia World Affairs Council, we can showcase that vision is reality.”
Peter E. Braun, PHENOGY Co-Founder and CEO
PHENOGY’s expansion aligns with Columbia’s broader push for energy innovation. In July 2024, the city secured more than $22 million in grants to support workforce development and battery technology research through projects led by the University of South Carolina and the South Carolina Technical College System. These investments not only reinforce Columbia’s position as a center for energy innovation, but also create new opportunities for collaboration with companies like PHENOGY, further driving economic growth and technological advancement.
“This development emphasizes our city’s commitment to attracting new members to our community creating opportunities for our residents and,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “Columbia has the brains and talent needed to drive innovation across all sectors. PHENOGY’s decision to grow here reinforces our city’s reputation as a destination for companies interested in shaping the future of energy and advanced manufacturing.”
City of Columbia, Columbia Economic Development, Richland County, University of South Carolina, Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Columbia World Affairs Council and PHENOGY AG
Columbia’s growth in this industry places it at the center of a burgeoning hub for start-ups and future-focused technology. The City will continue to expand and add jobs as graduates of the University of South Carolina – a major economic driver and competitive asset – have more opportunities in the entrepreneurship, technology and clean energy industries, driving innovation and fostering growth.
“We are so excited PHENOGY is embarking on its U.S. expansion right here in Columbia,” said Teresa Wilson, City Manager, City of Columbia. “I am confident this addition to our great city will further our trajectory of growth and transformation.”
About PHENOGY
PHENOGY AG, based in Root near Lucerne, Switzerland, is a leading innovator of energy storage solutions for the green electrification of the planet. Founded in 2019, currently around 30 employees work on future-proof and truly sustainable battery storage systems that are powerful, safe and robust – with circularity as a central principle. In addition to Exentis Group AG, the provider of a 3D technology platform for large-scale industrial production, the technology partner network also includes selected institutes of the Fraunhofer Battery Alliance. PHENOGY AG is currently supported by investments from over 320 shareholders. For more information: www.phenogy.com
About the City of Columbia Office of Economic Development
As the leading economic development agency for the City of Columbia, the office focuses on recruitment of new business, retention and expansion of existing industry, and support of job growth through entrepreneurship and innovation. Columbia, South Carolina is one of the fastest growing cities in the Southeast and an ideal place for commercial development. With a world class workforce, high quality of life, low-cost corporate environment, and extensive transportation infrastructure, Columbia is positioned to assist businesses in gaining a competitive edge in the global marketplace. For more information about the Office of Economic Development, please visit our website.
