Critical Energy, founded by a former SpaceX engineer, has raised $22 million to repurpose rocket engines as geothermal power plants. The startup aims to deploy 300 GW of annual capacity by 2045.
Critical Energy is leveraging aerospace technology to address energy infrastructure gaps. The company's approach converts rocket engine designs into geothermal drilling and power generation systems, combining high-temperature expertise from space applications with terrestrial energy needs.
Geothermal energy provides consistent baseload power with minimal environmental footprint. By adapting proven rocket technology, Critical Energy bypasses traditional drilling constraints that have limited geothermal expansion.
The $22 million funding round positions the startup to advance prototype development and pilot projects. A 300 GW annual capacity target by 2045 would represent substantial growth from current U.S. geothermal output of roughly 4 GW.
The effort reflects broader industry trends applying aerospace innovations to climate and energy challenges. Geothermal remains an underutilized renewable resource, particularly in regions with favorable geology.
Defense tech company Hadrian secured $1.37 billion in Series D funding at an $8 billion valuation. The capital will fund expansion of its manufacturing facilities and Opus software platform.
Singapore-based AI infrastructure startup Acrab raised $130 million in Series B funding, surpassing $480 million in total capital raised. The round was backed by existing investors including Vertex Ventures.
Herdr, a runtime platform, has been accepted into Y Combinator's latest batch. The company is maintaining its open-source commitment despite the funding.
ProvenMetal, a Y Combinator S26 startup, manufactures assembled circuit boards domestically in days rather than weeks. The service accepts design files and specifications, addressing a critical gap in US semiconductor supply chains.