TORCH smart urban solutions
At Torch, we design urban infrastructure powered by sovereign artificial intelligence and sustainable energy autonomy, placing people at the center of mobility.
We have developed Europe’s most energy-efficient edge AI, and the first capable of operating entirely on solar energy. This technology enables safer, more accessible and more resilient cities, anywhere.
By transforming public infrastructure into intelligent, energy-independent systems, Torch contributes to 7 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), protecting the planet while reducing operational costs.
Founders
Javier Peña: Architect and urban planner with more than 15 years of experience in urban mobility and accessibility projects. He has worked on international projects, contributing his knowledge in urban strategies and management with various stakeholders.
Walter Gálvez: Electronic engineer with more than 20 years of experience and 20 patents in urban technology. His technical approach and experience in developing innovative solutions form the technological basis of Torch.
Sustainability
SDGs Impact
At Torch, one of our core objectives is to support cities on their journey towards achieving the 2030 Agenda by directly contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our solutions —whether in urban mobility, accessibility, or energy efficiency— are designed to help cities reach these goals, fostering urban environments that are more inclusive, safe, and sustainable.
Economic Impact
Through our licensing model, we provide local manufacturers and municipalities with access to advanced technology without significant upfront investment, generating jobs and promoting economic growth in their communities. Additionally, we support startups and small businesses by offering our technology as a platform to facilitate their market entry and allow them to self-finance with direct benefits. This collaborative strategy drives local innovation and contributes to economic growth, aligning with the development goals of the 2030 Agenda.
Social Impact
Our initiatives aim to create safer and more accessible environments for all citizens, especially those in vulnerable situations. Additionally, we collaborate with universities by providing access to our data so it can be used in doctoral theses and research, promoting academic knowledge development and data-driven urban solutions. From bus stops with real-time communication to smart traffic lights, each Torch product is designed to enhance urban quality of life and support social inclusion.
Environmental Impact
At Torch, we design solutions that reduce carbon footprints and respect the environment. By leveraging solar energy, we minimize dependence on the electrical grid and extend equipment lifespan. We have also developed Europe’s most energy-efficient edge AI, capable of operating exclusively on solar energy, enabling intelligent urban infrastructure to function without grid connection. Our approach ensures that every stage, from implementation to end-of-life, minimizes waste and supports the environmental commitments of the 2030 Agenda.
Technological Sovereignty
Around 90% of the AI systems used worldwide belong to companies from the United States and China. This means that public services, mobility systems, and in many cases even parts of the defense infrastructure of many countries rely on technologies controlled by these countries. This not only grants access to highly sensitive data, but also creates the risk of technological dependence.
Data Privacy
With our edge AI, data remains anonymous and is not transferred to companies in third countries for political or corporate interests.
Sustainability
Our processing system fits inside a shoebox and runs on solar energy. It does not rely on massive data centers that occupy tens of square kilometers of land, consume millions of kWh of electricity, and require millions of liters of water for cooling.
Self-sufficiency
Our AI does not require internet or connection to the electrical grid. It can operate day and night, keeping infrastructure running and ensuring continuous and safe mobility even during large-scale blackouts such as the one that affected Spain on April 28, 2025.
Economic Savings
Our solar-powered edge AI eliminates electricity consumption and usage fees. With no monthly subscriptions or tokens per query, it can save cities millions of euros every year.
Contributing to the Innovation Ecosystem
• Tech4Good Commission
• GovTech Tractor Group
Awards & Recognitions
2022
- 1st Prize at the TMBHackathon Innovation Barcelona (November 2022)
2023
- 2nd Prize at the International Hackathon of the UITP Summit Barcelona
- Selected for the Pre-accelerator: "Towards Sustainable Mobility!
- Finalist at BNEW Awards (Barcelona New Economy Week)
- Finalist at the Ciutat Proactiva Challenge (Barcelona)
- Finalist at the Programa Primer Awards of the Government of Catalonia
2024
- Finalist at the Barcelona Innova Lab Mobility Challenge of the Smart City World Congress
- Finalist at the European Mobility Expo (EuMo) in Strasbourg
- Selection for the Smart City World Congress
- Selected for the eWorks Accelerator Program of ESADE
- Selected for the SEE BRIDGE 2024 Founding Programme, co-funded by the European Union
2025
- Representative in "Red Innpulso" of the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities
- Finalist in the Graines de Boss Spain Awards
- Speaker at the session "Startup Success: Tips from Entrepreneurs Who Made It" at the EIT Higher Education
- Recognized as one of the Top 5 Mobility Startups at BNEW
- Speaker at the session “The Contribution of Catalan Tech Startups to the Sustainable Development Goals” at BNEW
- Finalist at the Catalan Pitch 2025 by ACCIÓ (Top 15 Startups in Catalonia)
2026
- Startup Forum Winner, eMobility Expo World Congress (MOW), Malaga.
