42watt is setting the course for its next development phase. As of January 27, 2026, Obi Group Holding has acquired a majority stake in Enovato GmbH, the company behind 42watt. For the cleantech company, this move means accelerated growth, greater reach, and a stronger market position in the energy renovation sector.
Obi and 42watt have been closely partnered since November 2023. Following an early-stage investment, this is now the next logical step. From 42watt’s perspective, the majority stake creates the structural prerequisites to roll out its own business model nationwide and support even more property owners in implementing renovation projects.
Scaling a digital one-stop shop
42watt positions itself as a central contact point for energy renovation in the residential building sector. The startup pursues a universal one-stop-shop approach: customers receive consulting, planning, and implementation from a single source. This includes building analysis, creation of an individual renovation roadmap, and support through project completion. Additionally, 42watt assists in identifying and accessing funding opportunities.
A key differentiator lies in the openness of the model. 42watt doesn’t work with fixed component suppliers but instead relies on its own network of local specialized trades. At the same time, the startup integrates both new renovation projects and measures already implemented that can be further expanded or combined. This way, 42watt addresses a central problem for many property owners: the complexity and fragmentation of energy renovations.
With Obi’s entry, 42watt can significantly scale this approach. Energy renovation projects can now be launched online via Obi and the Hey-Obi app. Ultimately, the offering is to be available in more than 350 Obi stores in Germany. For 42watt, this creates direct access to a large existing customer base.
Growth with a strong partner
Marcus Dietmann, founder and managing director of 42watt, says:
“With Obi at our back, we can bring our technology to people on an even broader scale. For us, this is the opportunity to apply exactly the lever for climate protection in the building sector that we’ve always had in mind: simple, digital, and doable for everyone.”
At the strategic level too, 42watt sees clear advantages. Obi’s strong brand and nationwide presence create a platform to establish its own approach in the market. At the same time, the startup’s operational focus remains on further developing its digital offering and collaboration with regional tradespeople.
Sebastian Gundel, CEO of Obi Group Holding, on 42watt’s role within the group:
“We’ve accompanied 42watt since November 2023 and seen the passion with which the team works on solutions for the energy transition. 42watt is strategically a perfect fit for Obi.”
For 42watt, Obi’s entry marks the transition into a phase with new operational scope. The combination of digital approach, regional craft network, and the reach of an established retail partner creates the foundation to carry out energy renovation projects on a larger scale in the future.
