Startup Nights 2025

6–7 Nov 2025 | Winterthur, Switzerland

Thursday, 6 November 2025 | 20:35 - 21:00

Dare to decarbonize: The challenges of building a new fuel economy in a fossil system

Location:Main Stage "Unicorn" (Hall 1)Track:Keynote

Dr. Philipp Furler is the CEO and Co-Founder of Synhelion, a Swiss clean energy company that produces renewable synthetic fuels that can directly replace fossil fuels. Philipp Furler holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich since 2014 and completed his Executive MBA at the University of Strathclyde in 2018. Under his leadership, Synhelion raised over CHF 100 million and built its first industrial solar fuel plant, delivering sustainable fuels to customers across various transportation sectors. In 2025, he was recognized as a Sustainable Shaper by Sustainable Switzerland in the category Vision & Innovation.

In his talk, “Dare to decarbonize: The challenges of building a new fuel economy in a fossil system,” Philipp shares how belief in a vision isn’t enough — it takes scientific precision, adaptability, and a great team to redefine an industry built on oil. His message: Don’t fall in love with your solution – fall in love with solving the problem.

Philipp Furler, CEO & Co-Founder, Synhelion

1 speaker