The Reunion Island specialist in energy solutions for buildings and housing Gaïa Groupe joins forces with the private investment fund Spice Capital. This collaboration opens a new chapter of development for the company.
Founded in 2008, Gaïa Group occupies a leading position in the field of energy transition in Reunion Island. This visionary company specializes in the energy management of buildings, intelligent solutions and networks of connected objects. She has developed a global approach, which includes energy needs by controlling each element of its offer, from equipment design to energy infrastructure. More recently, it optimized their operation thanks to the establishment of an internal low-speed network. The group positions itself in key markets, encompassing the production of renewable energy, notably solar hot water on an individual and collective scale, as well as photovoltaic power plants. Gaïa Groupe also plays a leading role in the energy management of buildings and mobility. This comprehensive offering allows it to target a wide range of customers, ranging from individuals to tertiary and industrial companies, through private operators, local authorities and social landlords.
Gaïa Groupe broadens its horizons
Fund manager Apicap has supported the growth of the Gaïa group since 2014 : “In almost ten years, the group has established itself as a leader in energy transition solutions in Reunion Island. We are delighted with the arrival of Spice Capital alongside the historic leaders, which will allow the group to continue this dynamic in the territory of Reunion”, declares Alain Esnault, president of Apicap. “This new partnership will allow us to explore targeted external growth opportunities., as well as the possibility of covering new geographical areas”, concludes Yan Rivière. The operation is structured as a minority investment in shares, with a convertible bond component.
The leading market for the energy transition
Under the direction of Yan Rivière, founding president, and Thibault Rebelle, general manager, Gaïa Groupe maintained robust growth despite the challenges posed by the health crisis. Between 2019 and 2021, the company recorded an average annual growth rate of more than 10%. In 2022, Gaïa Groupe achieved a turnover of nearly 20 million euros and maintains ambitious projections for 2023 and 2024. The association with Spice Capital made it possible to offer a solution consistent with the exit deadlines for funds managed by Apicap, who supported the company, notably the Essor PME La Réunion co-investment fund and the PME 974 funds n° 4 and 5, while allowing the two managers to retain the majority of the capital. “Our decision is driven by the underlying growth potential of the market, driven by the energy transition and the strategic need for the island to guarantee its energy independence”, explains Maryline Kulawik, Managing Partner de Spice Capital. Spice Capital's support will focus on the development of new products and growth channels, particularly in the field of the Internet of Things.
