Dandelion Energy

An innovative offshoot of Alphabet's "moonshot" X division, Dandelion Energy split off from that corporate parent as an independent company in 2017 to revolutionize access to geothermal energy. Geothermal is the most environmentally friendly way to regulate temperatures within homes, according to the Energy Information Administration, but it typically involves expensive customized systems that few homeowners can afford. Dandelion Energy's method of installation cuts costs by avoiding the need for large-scale excavation, relying instead on a six-inch-diameter borehole that's both less costly and better suited to smaller homes. The New York City-based company started in its home state and has since expanded to Connecticut. While still in early stages—Dandelion currently has about 700 customers—it boasts over 40,000 people signed up to receive a quote on home installation, and a six-month waiting list. Dandelion has helped its existing customers avoid over 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide pollution, the equivalent of taking 18,443 cars off the road, the company says. Dandelion has raised $35 million in funds and is valued at $110 million.