In a significant shift in branding, Kohler Energy has officially changed its name to Rehlko, marking a new chapter for the company known for over a century of innovation in energy solutions. The rebranding comes as a surprise to many, but leaders assert it is rooted in the company’s history and future vision.
“Rehlko is an anagram of Kohler. We reshuffled the letters,” explained Francis Perrin, Chief Brand and Sustainability Officer. “However, it carries much deeper meaning as it reflects our heritage while symbolizing our commitment to a sustainable energy future.”
Established as an independent entity in May 2024, Rehlko emerged following a transaction in which Platinum Equity acquired a majority stake, while Kohler retains an investment partnership. Despite the new name, the company remains headquartered in Wisconsin, with operations spanning over 100 locations worldwide. Its diverse portfolio includes Power Systems, Engines, Uninterruptible Power, Home Energy, Clarke Energy, Curtis Instruments, and Heila Technologies.
Embracing Independence
With the rebranding, Rehlko is focusing on autonomy, directing its efforts toward offering innovative energy solutions that address complex challenges in power generation, energy storage, and renewable technologies. “Our strategic shift allows Kohler Co. to concentrate on kitchen, bath, and plumbing products, while we zero in on energy solutions for areas without grid access,” Perrin noted. “This new direction positions us for growth and innovation in our industry.”
The Power Systems and Engines divisions will lead the transition to the Rehlko brand by the end of 2024, followed by other divisions in due course. Perrin emphasized that, while the company is undergoing a branding transformation, the expertise and product reliability that customers have come to trust remain unchanged.
“Our primary focus is continuity; we want our customers to know that we’re still delivering the same reliable products and maintaining the same teams and processes,” he stated. “The most noticeable change for our customers will be our increased agility. As a standalone company, we can make faster decisions, enhancing our responsiveness to market needs.”
Innovating for the Future
Rehlko is not only focusing on continuity but also on evolving its approach to meet industry demands. The company is increasingly partnering with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to deliver integrated solutions. “Our engineers collaborate with OEMs to create tailored solutions, moving towards a service-oriented model,” Perrin explained. This collaborative approach enables Rehlko to provide comprehensive packages, such as the integration of Curtis Instruments’ technology in electric and hybrid vehicle applications.
Looking ahead, Rehlko is optimistic about the potential for innovation in fuels, particularly hydrogen. The company showcased its KDH hydrogen internal combustion engine at Agritechnica 2023 and is collaborating with Toyota Motor North America on fuel cell power systems. “We anticipate launching backup generators utilizing hydrogen fuel cell technology by the end of this year,” Perrin announced.
As electrification trends rise, particularly in smaller engines, Rehlko is keenly monitoring market developments. Perrin emphasized that while the shift towards sustainable energy is crucial, the company recognizes the ongoing value of clean diesel engines, enabling customers to transition at their own pace. “All Rehlko diesel engines are certified for hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) use, catering to clients seeking more sustainable power solutions.”
In conclusion, Rehlko is poised to advance its mission of delivering innovative and reliable energy solutions while embracing its rich heritage. With a clear focus on R&D and sustainability, the company is preparing to lead the energy transition effectively, regardless of its timeline. “We’re committed to fostering advancements in both traditional and new power technologies,” Perrin stated, reinforcing the company’s readiness for the future.
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