The Business Journal’s DC Startups to Watch
Dandelion Energy
About the company: Dandelion Energy Inc. is harnessing the natural heat of the Earth to equip its geothermal systems with warming and cooling capabilities for residential properties across the country. Advancements in heat pump technology have allowed the Arlington startup to create a looping water system that, in the winter, uses water to absorb ground heat for circulation into the home. In the summer, it concentrates indoor heat into the water loop and transfers it to the ground for cooling before circulating it back into the residence. Dandelion, founded in 2017 by President Kathy Hannun, employs over 100 and has raised more than $130 million from investors, the most recent being a $40 million Series C led by Google Ventures in September 2024.
Why we’re watching: Interest in Dandelion Energy’s geothermal systems is growing. The company recently reached over 2,000 installations across single-family, townhome, multifamily and commercial developments. Much of Dandelion’s demand is fueled by nearly $400 billion in federal clean energy incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act, which, depending on eligibility, means some homebuilders can see the system’s cost drop to $0 when certain rebates and credits are used to offset installation costs. But the Trump administration has temporarily frozen funds tied to the signature Biden administration bill, potentially complicating builders’ efforts to claim the credit. — Nate Doughty