Dutch climate tech startup Brineworks has successfully raised €6.8 million (approximately $7.3 million) to enhance its innovative Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, which aims to achieve carbon removal costs below €100 per ton. This funding round, spearheaded by SeaX Ventures and supported by several other investors, comes at a critical juncture as global scrutiny intensifies on emissions from aviation and shipping, which collectively account for over 5% of worldwide CO₂ emissions. Founded in 2023, Brineworks is on track for commercial readiness by 2026, bolstered by a €1.8 million grant from the European Innovation Council to expedite pilot deployment of its technology, which also produces hydrogen for sustainable fuel applications.
Brineworks’ patented electrolyzer is designed for flexible operation with renewable energy sources, allowing it to capture CO₂ and produce hydrogen simultaneously. This dual output is pivotal for generating synthetic fuels like e-methanol and sustainable aviation fuel, providing a viable solution for industries facing stringent decarbonization pressures. If successful, Brineworks could localize the production of carbon-neutral fuels, reducing reliance on imports while aiding climate targets. Achieving the sub-€100 per ton capture cost would not only enhance the economic feasibility of DAC but also position it competitively against traditional offset markets, making it a critical player in the transition to sustainable energy and transportation solutions.
