US-based household energy monitor developer Sense has completed a $18m series B round led by industrial group Schneider Electric that featured robotics technology producer iRobot and oil and gas supplier Shell.
Prelude Ventures, Capricorn Investment and Energy Impact Ventures also participated in the round, with Shell investing through corporate venturing subsidiary Shell Ventures.
Founded in 2013 as Sage Devices, Sense has developed a household energy monitor that uses machine learning to track electric signals emitted from various devices spread across the home. The technology plugs into the central electrical system to help customers monitor energy costs and usage patterns.
Sense will use the series B capital to pursue a broader distribution strategy involving partners from the home construction, energy supply and smart home industries.
The company has amassed $38.6m in funding to date. Shell Ventures, then known as Shell Technology Ventures, and Energy Impact Partners co-led its $15m series A round, which was closed in January 2017.
The series A round also featured a $1m investment by iRobot and contributions from Capricorn Investment, Prelude Ventures, CRV and Bolt. Sense had previously raised $4m in equity funding in 2015, according to a securities filing.