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Torch Sensors is preparing to raise up to $10 million this summer to expand production of its camera-packed wildfire detectors, the company tells Axios.

Why it matters: The devices aim to offer hyperlocal fire detection to accelerate alerts and response times.

The big picture: Solar-powered Torch Sensors devices contain six cameras and sensors to spot or sniff out a blaze. 

Each device can cover up to 10 acres and sends alerts via an app.

Driving the news: Torch Sensors plans to launch an $8 million to $10 million raise in Q2 or Q3 to fund production with a contract manufacturer.

"We've been trying to iron out whether this will be seed or Series A," COO Joseph Morris tells Axios. "It's dependent on revenue numbers in the next six months."

Flashback: The San Francisco-based startup previously raised $2.75 million in pre-seed funding from Starship Ventures.

State of play: The company has distributed about 25 sensors since its launch in 2020, including some given to Los Angeles residents in the wake of large wildfires there earlier this year. 

Torch Sensors in the next few weeks expects to deploy about 100 sensors in a paid pilot with an undisclosed solar energy company, and it aims to field roughly 1,000 sensors by the end of the year, Morris says.

How it works: The startup charges "a couple hundred dollars" for each device and a subscription fee for the associated app, CEO Vasya Tremsin says.

It's initially focusing on business customers, such as its pilot with the solar company, but is also eyeing consumer and government sales.

"Our recent trip to LA, which was pretty overwhelming," Morris says. "It inspired us to think about this as a consumer product."

Exclusive: Torch Sensors raising up to $10M for wildfire detection

The startup aims to provide hyperlocal fire alerts.

A photo of a gray and black Torch Sensor fire-detection device, attached to a tree.

Each Torch Sensors device contains multiple cameras and sensors. Photo: Courtesy of Torch Sensors

Torch Sensors is preparing to raise up to $10 million this summer to expand production of its camera-packed wildfire detectors, the company tells Axios.Why it matters: The devices aim to offer hyperlocal fire detection to accelerate alerts and response times.

Exclusive: Torch Sensors raising up to $10M for wildfire detection

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