News Summary

DACLab, a startup focused on direct air capture of carbon dioxide, has emerged from stealth with a $3 million seed funding round led by Peter Relan, an early Discord investor. The company, co-founded by Aditya Bhandari, claims its technology can capture CO2 for less energy than many competitors, using approximately 1,500 kWh per metric ton. DACLab’s approach involves separating the capture and release processes, a method typically used in industrial sites, to reduce energy consumption. The company has built units capable of capturing 100 metric tons per year, with plans for larger versions. These units are priced under $500,000 and will be deployed in Washington state and Kenya. DACLab aims to supply its technology to oil and gas companies, carbon project developers, and e-fuel manufacturers. The startup’s goal is to further reduce energy usage to below 1,000 kWh per metric ton, potentially lowering capture costs to $250 per metric ton, while maintaining realistic promises in the carbon capture industry.