Starfire Energy

About Starfire Energy

Based in Denver, Colorado, Starfire Energy operates as a developer of modular systems designed for the production of carbon-free ammonia (NH3).

The company was founded in 2007 by Joe Beach and Jennifer Beach. Initially focused on solar energy, the company pivoted in 2016 to concentrate on ammonia fuel. Joe Beach, who holds a Ph.D. in Applied Physics, previously co-founded a thin-film PV startup that was acquired by General Electric. His experience in the solar industry led him to identify energy storage as the next significant challenge in reducing carbon emissions. Jennifer Beach has a master's degree in Technology Management and over two decades of experience in project and program management.

Starfire Energy is developing modular chemical plants that produce green ammonia using only renewable energy, air, and water as inputs. This process addresses the significant carbon footprint of conventional ammonia production, which typically relies on natural gas. The company's business model is centered on selling these mass-produced, modular plants that are assembled on-site. This approach aims to provide maximum reliability and repeatable costs. The company serves a diverse client base across several sectors, including power generation, grid storage, industrial heat (for industries like steel and cement), maritime shipping, mining, and transportation.

The company's core products include the 'Rapid Ramp NH3' ammonia synthesis technology and the 'Prometheus Carbon-free Fire' system. The Rapid Ramp technology is designed to connect directly with renewable energy sources, offering a scalable and distributed method for producing zero-carbon ammonia. A key feature is its ability to operate flexibly with intermittent power from sources like wind and solar. The Prometheus system is an ammonia cracking technology that converts ammonia back into hydrogen. This provides an efficient way to store and transport green hydrogen, which can then be used as a fuel for utility gas turbines, large-scale ships, fuel cell vehicles, and industrial processes.

Starfire Energy has secured significant funding to advance its technology. A major funding round in April 2021 was led by AP Ventures and included investors such as Chevron Technology Ventures, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Osaka Gas USA. In October 2022, the company announced a $24 million Series B funding round led by Samsung Ventures. As of late 2023, the company has raised a total of $39.6 million over nine funding rounds.