Gregor Novak is the co-founder and president of SunContract, a global energy marketplace that utilizes blockchain technology to create a new disruptive and innovative business model for buying and selling electricity and other energy services. He has over 20 years of experience in the power industry, having worked in two of the most important and complex national electricity companies in the Republic of Slovenia.

Early Life

Gregor Novak grew up in Jelovo, small village in Radece, Slovenia. After building a successful SONCE group which includes also SunContract, he made his birthplace naighbour village Zavrate completely energy self-sufficient.

Education

Gregor Novak has a diverse academic background. He began his educational journey at the University of Maribor, specifically at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Informatics. He furthered his studies with a postgraduate scientific master’s degree at the Faculty of Economics of the University of Ljubljana, majoring in Information Management Sciences. His career began in 2000 at the IT company Hermes Softlab, followed by various engineering and subsequently managerial positions in the field of information technology and telecommunications across several energy companies. Initially employed at Borzen (a Slovenian power market operator and regional power exchange) in 2002, he advanced to become the director of the IT and telecommunications sector at ELES (a transmission system operator) before embarking on his independent entrepreneurial path.

Professional Journey

Gregor Novak embarked on a distinguished professional journey, marked by leadership roles in Slovenia’s energy sector. His tenure as a System Administrator and Chief Information Officer at BORZEN showcased his adeptness in managing complex systems and driving technological advancements. As the leader of the ICT department at ELES, he ensured the reliability and efficiency of Slovenia’s electric power transmission system, demonstrating his commitment to national energy security. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident through the founding of SONCE group, where he led over a thousand solar energy projects, signifying a shift towards sustainable energy solutions. In addition to his professional roles, Gregor is a regular lecturer at international conferences on energy, IT, blockchain, and future trends, having presented in Davos at The World Economic Forum, and United Nations in New York, thereby contributing to the global dialogue on these critical topics.

Beginning of the Crypto Journey

Gregor Novak’s entry into the crypto space is not only marked by the launch of NFTs at SunContract but also by his revolutionary approach to energy trading. He has utilized blockchain technology to create first worldwide retail a peer to peer energy trading platform on the national scale, significantly transforming how energy is bought and sold and advancing the use of blockchain and cryptocurrency in the energy sector.

Vision and Philosophy

“As an entrepreneur, you must always be one step ahead.” This has always been Gregor’s personal motto and is also the guiding principle of the SONCE group. Indeed, what drives him in his work is the curiosity to step into something new, something better for his clients, for the planet, for the future, which is much more than just working for oneself and one’s own benefit. For him and his team, there is no such thing as ‘it can’t be done’; what can’t be done becomes a challenge to solve. Whether it’s a technical, operational, legal, or any other kind of challenge. Gregor fosters deep commitment to enhancing energy systems, promoting sustainable practices, and embracing innovative technologies. His leadership in various national energy institutions and his entrepreneurial success with SONCE group indicate a forward-thinking approach, aiming to harmonize technological advancements with environmental stewardship.

Contributions to the crypto industry

Gregor Novak’s contributions to the crypto industry are profound, extending well beyond introducing NFTs. By establishing a blockchain-based energy marketplace through SunContract, he’s effectively redefined energy transactions, promoting a sustainable and direct trading platform. This innovative application of blockchain not only boosts renewable energy use but also supports a decentralized, peer-to-peer energy sharing economy. His visionary approach signifies a meaningful fusion of renewable energy initiatives with the transformative potential of cryptocurrency, setting a pioneering precedent for future eco-conscious and technologically advanced solutions in the energy sector.

Recognitions and Honors

Gregor Novak’s leadership at SunContract has been recognized with prestigious accolades, reflecting his impactful work in the energy sector. The company received the Energy Award for the best promotional project from the Slovenian national newspaper Finance, emphasizing their commitment to efficient energy use and renewable resources. Additionally, SunContract was honored as the Environmental Project of the Year at the AIBC Eurasia Conference in Dubai, further highlighting their innovative and environmentally conscious approach in the field of renewable energy and blockchain technology. Moreover, SunContract has been recognized as one of the best European green energy startups by Valuer Magazine. Gregor himself, as a co-founder and president of SunContract, received a prestigious accolade as a leader in sustainable development at the 12th Danube Business Forum in Serbia. Furthermore, he has shared his expertise on the global stage, including lecturing in Davos at the World Economic Forum and in United Nations in New York on the potential of blockchain technology in the energy sector. These awards and recognitions testify to Gregor’s significant contributions and the industry’s acknowledgment of his pioneering work.

Current Roles and Affiliations

Gregor Novak’s current professional status reflects his enduring commitment to the energy sector. As the co-founder of SONCE group, he remains at the forefront of energy innovation, driving initiatives that promise a more sustainable and efficient energy future. His role indicates continuous involvement in project development, strategic partnerships, and advocating for renewable energy solutions.

Legacy and Future Prospects

The legacy of Gregor Novak is still being written, with his ongoing efforts in the energy sector shaping a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. His vision for integrating renewable energy, efficient infrastructure, and innovative technologies like blockchain sets a course for continued impact. The future holds promise for further achievements, as he continues to champion energy solutions that meet the evolving needs of society and the environment.