START European Thermoelectric Systems (SETS)

START European Thermoelectric Systems ÖÜ is a service-oriented company established to support the commercialization of sustainable thermoelectric (TE) technologies and to facilitate the development of a European thermoelectric ecosystem.

Created within the START initiative, SETS acts as an intermediary and ecosystem enabler, supporting the activities of the Sustainable Thermoelectric Alliance and its members in promoting their technologies, building partnerships, and accessing market opportunities.

Role

SETS contributes to the implementation of the Alliance’s objectives by providing practical support services and tools that strengthen collaboration, innovation, and market uptake across the thermoelectric value chain .

It bridges the gap between research, industry, and market deployment, helping stakeholders move from innovation to real-world applications.

Mission

To accelerate the deployment of thermoelectric technologies by:

  • Supporting the activities and growth of the Sustainable Thermoelectric Alliance
  • Connecting stakeholders across the value chain
  • Enabling commercialization and market uptake
  • Promoting sustainable and competitive solutions in Europe

Core Services

SETS offers a range of services supporting innovation, collaboration, and ecosystem development:

Digital Platform Services

Operation of the START Technology Marketplace (TM), enabling visibility and interaction across the ecosystem.

Matchmaking & Networking

Connecting stakeholders across the thermoelectric value chain and facilitating collaboration.

Fundraising & Business Development

Supporting access to funding opportunities and development of innovation projects.

Market Intelligence

Providing insights on niche markets, applications, and business opportunities.

Regulatory Compliance

Guidance on relevant environmental, industrial, and materials regulations.

Sustainability Assessment

Services including Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC).

Raw Materials & Circular Value Chains

Evaluation of mining by-products and circular approaches for thermoelectric applications.

Supporting the European Thermoelectric Ecosystem

Through its activities, SETS plays a key role in supporting the Sustainable Thermoelectric Alliance and contributing to:

  • The development of a coordinated European thermoelectric ecosystem
  • The industrialization and commercialization of TE technologies
  • Stronger collaboration across research, industry, and policy stakeholders

For enquiries related to:

  • Membership and joining the Alliance
  • Collaboration within the thermoelectric ecosystem
  • Policy, research, and networking activities