Michael Koopman (Termina)

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Overview

Michael Koopman is the co-founder and CEO of Termina, an innovative Australian startup focused on revolutionizing the energy savings sector for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Established in 2020, Termina is renowned for its platform that utilizes collective buying power to secure better energy rates for its clients, which include well-known brands like Betty’s Burgers and Pizza Hut. Koopman's background in chemistry and experience at the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) laid the foundation for his career in the energy sector. His leadership at Termina aims to shift the perception of energy costs from being an operational expenditure to a capital investment by integrating renewable energy solutions.

Recent Developments

  • Pre-Series A Funding (June 2025): Termina secured $3 million in a pre-Series A funding round led by EVP. This investment is crucial for Termina’s plans to expand globally, with an eye on the UK market after already launching in New Zealand. The company is also enhancing its platform to manage energy data across multiple sites and assist in emissions tracking and reporting.
  • Innovative Business Model: Termina distinguishes itself with a business model where revenue is based on customer savings rather than commissions from energy retailers. This approach has enabled Termina to double its annual recurring revenue and has provided significant savings for customers, exceeding $2,300 annually on average.
  • Market Expansion: Beyond Australia, Termina is looking to strengthen ties with the renewable energy sector and improve its collective buying power to deliver lower energy costs. The platform manages over 4,000 energy meters in Australia and is actively exploring further expansions internationally.
  • Recognition and Support: EVP's Allen Zhu has praised Termina's user-centric and innovative approach to the energy market in Australia. Investors have recognized the platform's potential to transform energy buying practices for SMEs, confirming its value and strategic importance.

Personal Information

AttributeInformation
Full NameMichael Koopman
BornUnknown
NationalityAustralian
OccupationCEO and Co-founder of Termina
Known ForLeading Termina and innovations in energy savings
Net WorthNot publicly disclosed
EducationStudied Chemistry

Early Life and Education

Michael Koopman pursued his studies in chemistry, which provided him with a strong scientific foundation and a keen understanding of the energy landscape. His career began with a stint at the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), where he gathered insights into the operational and regulatory complexities of the energy sector. This experience, coupled with his academic background, equipped him with the necessary skill set to innovate within the energy sector and eventually spearhead Termina's founding.

Career and Notable Achievements

Michael Koopman’s career took a pivotal turn with the founding of Termina in 2020, alongside Rodrigo Garcia-Mulder (Head of Sales) and Tom Dempster (CTO). His notable achievements include:

  • Establishment of Termina: Under his leadership, Termina emerged as a leader in the energy savings sector, focusing on consolidation of energy management and procurement for SMEs.
  • Expansion and Innovation: Introduced a business model centered on customer savings, setting a precedent for energy brokers.
  • Global Aspirations: Successfully expanded operations to New Zealand with future plans for UK entry.
  • Investor Confidence: Secured substantial funding rounds, including a $3 million pre-Series A round, enhancing Termina's growth trajectory.

Current Work and Impact

Currently, as CEO of Termina, Michael Koopman is at the forefront of developing comprehensive solutions for energy management. His work focuses on transforming energy buying practices for SMEs, advocating for the integration of renewable energy, and ensuring that energy costs contribute positively to a business's asset portfolio rather than its operational liabilities. The platform continues to attract significant interest from the energy sector, reinforcing Koopman's vision for sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.

Conclusion

Michael Koopman's journey as a co-founder and CEO of Termina underscores his innovative approach to addressing energy costs for SMEs. By transforming how energy is perceived and purchased, Koopman is not only contributing to operational savings for businesses but also facilitating a broader transition towards renewable energy. As Termina expands its global footprint, Koopman's leadership holds the potential to significantly impact the energy sector, offering a model of efficiency and collaboration that aligns closely with future sustainable practices.

References

  1. Startupdaily
  2. Capital Brief
  3. Mighty Partners Blog
  4. IT Boltwise
  5. SmartCompany