Kohler Co. is increasing its offerings in microgrid technology and clean energy with the acquisition of a Boston-area company that specializes in simplifying the integration and operation of distributed energy resources.
Kohler-based Kohler Co. said Tuesday that it has purchased Heila Technologies in Somerville, Massachusetts, which will operate as a standalone entity within the Wisconsin company's energy systems and generator manufacturing unit, Kohler Power Group.
Francisco Morocz, Heila's general manager, will report directly to Brian Melka, group president – Power. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Heila is an MIT-born company with expertise in the integration and operation of distributed energy resources (DERs), and its mission is to transform the energy industry. In the past year, Heila has raised a $3 million equity investment, doubled the size of its team, earned a $1 million National Science Foundation grant and landed on Guidehouse’s list of the Top 16 microgrid control companies, the only startup to receive that distinction.
Heila's distributed energy resources include the use of batteries, fuel cells, and solar arrays as the pillars of a new resilient, sustainable and reliable grid for communities and businesses.
"Heila Technologies is an ideal fit for Kohler as its hardware and software solutions can be integrated with our residential and industrial generators, energy storage systems, and Clarke Energy's renewable energy services as we continue to expand and diversify our portfolio," said Melka in a press release, referencing a U.K. company Kohler acquired in 2017. "With this acquisition, we are leveraging our history of trusted expertise in power resiliency with newer clean energy technologies. Resilient energy control through DERs is a crucial part of the development of the energy sector's infrastructure needs of the future."
Kohler Power manufactures engines and complete power systems, including portable, marine, residential, commercial and industrial generators, as well as equipment and accessories for emergency, prime power and energy-management applications. Kohler Co. also produces kitchen and bath products, cabinetry and lighting products, and operates hospitality and golf resort destinations.
Sam Mintz of Boston Inno contributed to this report.
