Founder

Dr. Walter Holaus on Motivation, Vision and the Role of Investors

„Now is the moment when grid operators
are looking for
clean, safe, and immediately deployable solutions "

Dr. Holaus, why is now the right time for Hivoduct?

The energy transition is advancing, while at the same time global electricity demand is rising. Conventional transmission systems are reaching their limits - technically, environmentally, and from a regulatory perspective. With compressed air cables, Hivoduct offers the only market-ready alternative to SF₆- and PFAS-based technologies for high-power transmission. Now is the moment when grid operators, cities, and policymakers are searching for clean, safe, and quickly implementable solutions.

What personally motivated you to develop this technology ?

I have worked my entire career in power engineering and witnessed how dependent we have become on systems that are neither sustainable nor safe in the long term. I was driven by the question: How can we design high-voltage networks in a way that solves today’s problems while benefiting future generations - instead of leaving them with new ones? Compressed air cables are my answer to that challenge .

Was there a defining moment that convinced you things couldn’t go on as they were ?

One of the most formative experiences for me was working with SF₆ gas. Everyone knows about the long-term risks it poses to the environment—yet there was no real alternative. We can no longer accept “stopgap solutions.” Publishing studies or research reports is not enough. We must build a better, market-ready product that can be manufactured in Switzerland. That’s why I have pursued the development of compressed air cables with full commitment until they reached market maturity. 

„Private investors have the chance to actively take part in a systemic shift.“ 

What does it mean for private investors to be part of this change?

Private investors have the opportunity not only to provide capital but also to actively participate in a systemic transformation. They are investing in a technology that reduces emissions, enhances safety, and is globally scalable. It’s an investment that not only offers returns but also creates meaning: to be part of a movement that makes our energy future more sustainable . 

 How do you define success—technically, economically, and personally ?

Technically, success means reliable, safe, and low-loss power transmission that sets new standards. Economically, it’s a profitable, growing company with a strong market position. And personally? It’s proving that a Swiss innovation can improve our future. When investors, customers, and employees are proud to be part of Hivoduct, that is true success.

„Become part of this change"