Runwise

Runwise, initially known as Heat Watch, embarked on its journey in 2010 with a clear mission: to tackle the pervasive energy waste in buildings. The story began when co-founder Jeff Carleton, then a property manager in New York City overseeing 150 multifamily buildings, noticed stark inefficiencies in heating systems. He observed that some buildings consumed significantly more energy than others for no apparent reason, leading to millions of dollars in wasted energy. This firsthand experience with the operational and financial burdens of outdated heating technology sparked the idea for a smarter solution.

Carleton partnered with Lee Hoffman, who brought a strong background in computer science and a history of building successful tech startups. Together, they envisioned a platform that could bring modern technology to an industry largely reliant on antiquated systems, some dating back to the 1960s and 70s. Their goal was to create a system that was not only intelligent and efficient but also easy to install and use, addressing a critical need for building owners and operators struggling with rising fuel costs and increasing environmental regulations. The company set out to develop a proprietary heat computer and sensor network, coupled with machine learning, to optimize boiler and heating system performance. This innovative approach aimed to reduce fuel consumption, lower carbon emissions, and enhance tenant comfort, transforming how buildings manage energy. From its initial focus on New York City, Runwise has expanded its reach, now operating in thousands of buildings across the United States, continuously evolving its technology to include cooling systems and water management, and driving significant energy savings and environmental impact.