App/tech business of the week – Greensense

Company       Greensense

“sustainability monitoring and reporting software”

What is it?    Software that monitors a building’s performance in terms of its energy and water use, in real time, with the aim of saving money and enhancing sustainability.

Founders       Three founders, Derek Gerrard, Fabian Le Gay Brereton and Peter Tickler, worked previously in a consulting business. Five years ago they set up Greensense, and now employ 14 staff from their offices in Subiaco and an office in Melbourne. Recently, the company brought in a new investor, who is also the chairman.

Where Accessed?   You can contact Greensense at greensense.com.au; it connects to meters and sensors in buildings, which pull in real-time data for automatic rating and benchmarking, interactive dashboards and smart alerts.

Funding         Initially funded by the founders, two years ago they attracted a new investor (and chairman), John Clifford. Derek Gerard is still a shareholder, Fabian Le Gay Brereton is managing director and can be contacted at fabian@greensense.com.au

Market Size  Even though the carbon pricing issue has fallen away, there is a strong interest in making buildings more sustainable and reducing energy costs. Some large competitors operate in this space.  Clients include RAC WA, Lend Lease, Department of Defence, NAB and Toyota. The company recently won iiNet’s ‘Innovator of the Year’ award and ‘Best Green Start-Up’ at the Startup Smart Awards.