VARM: Insulating Homes, Warming Futures

As summer temperatures soar, a Berlin-based startup is reminding us that smart insulation isn't just for winter. VARM, founded in 2023, is on a mission to keep homes comfortable and energy-efficient all year round.

According to a recent press release, VARM has secured €5.7 million in seed funding to accelerate its efforts in decarbonizing Europe's building sector. The company's innovative approach addresses two critical issues: the shortage of skilled workers and the urgent need for energy-efficient homes.

In Germany alone, residential heating accounts for nearly a fifth of CO₂ emissions. VARM's ambitious goal? To insulate one million homes in the next decade.

"In the next 10 years, we have to transform high emissions buildings to become energy-efficient. The most effective way to do this is insulation and not heat pumps or solar," says Christian Gruener, VARM's co-founder and CEO.

VARM's strategy is twofold. First, they're training a new generation of insulation installers. Then, they're equipping these professionals with a "business-in-a-box" solution, enabling them to start their own firms and connect directly with homeowners.

This approach not only tackles the blue-collar skills gap but also makes professional insulation more accessible and affordable. VARM's focus on air-gap insulation promises to reduce installation time and costs while significantly improving energy efficiency.

With three-quarters of EU buildings deemed energy inefficient, VARM's solution couldn't come at a better time. As energy prices soar and climate concerns escalate, their affordable insulation approach offers a win-win for homeowners and the environment alike.