Sunairio Secures $6.4M to Address Grid Volatility and Boost Renewable Integration

Sunairio, a software company that uses high-resolution climate data to simulate energy asset risk and grid variability, has announced the close of an oversubscribed $6.4 million funding round. This latest round, led by Buoyant Ventures, with participation from Constellation Technology Ventures, MassMutual Ventures' Climate Tech Fund, Rosecliff Ventures, and existing investors, brings the company’s total funding to $8.8 million.

As power grids face unprecedented volatility fueled by the rise of intermittent renewable energy sources, growing electrification demands, and the intensifying effects of climate change, Sunairio steps in with innovative solutions. Founded by energy trading veteran Rob Cirincione, the company has developed a high-fidelity probabilistic climate model that forecasts renewable energy production and demand variability over medium—and long-term horizons (15 days to 15 years).

Unlike conventional physics-based climate models that provide generalized regional weather predictions, Sunairio’s platform employs advanced statistics and generative AI to generate site-specific, asset-level climate simulations. These simulations integrate seamlessly with existing energy modelling tools, empowering energy stakeholders to make data-driven decisions amidst growing uncertainties.

"Sunairio's commercially ready grid modeling solutions provide the practical tools necessary to account for weather variability and climate trends as the integration of renewable energy generation accelerates." —Alex Behar, Principal at Buoyant Ventures

Sunairio’s technology is already making waves in the energy sector. Key use cases include:

• Xcel Energy uses Sunairio’s high-resolution climate modelling in a grid planning pilot.

• Constellation uses the platform to analyze its customer offsite renewables portfolio.

• Global renewable developers and commodity trading firms rely on Sunairio for precision modelling and risk assessment.

The platform has earned recognition for its innovation, including a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant in 2024 for its research into generative AI for climate simulation.

Currently operating across four major U.S. power market regions and select utility footprints, Sunairio plans to use the fresh funding to expand its market coverage and grow its team. The financing will enable the company to enhance its platform, reach new markets, and solidify its position as a climate-informed energy risk management leader.

Sunairio’s ability to simulate extreme weather risks and long-term climate variability at the asset level has made it an indispensable tool for renewables investors, energy traders, and utilities navigating the complexities of modern power markets. Sunairio is reshaping how the energy sector approaches risk, volatility, and sustainability by combining climate data with AI.

With its innovative technology and the backing of leading investors, Sunairio is poised to redefine energy risk management and ensure a more resilient and efficient grid for the future.