Orcan Energy The Munich-based startup offers modular solutions for clean power generation from waste heat. Now, they are cooperating with the international turbomachinery specialist Howden, equipping their new ORC system, "efficiency pack eP 1000," with a high-performance turbine developed by Howden. Initial large-scale projects, including a collaboration between Holcim and Eon at the Dotternhausen cement plant, are already underway.
With this new technology, the ORC system achieves efficiencies of over 20 percent. It operates efficiently even at partial load and reacts flexibly to fluctuating waste heat quantities and temperatures. This makes the conversion of large quantities of industrial waste heat – for example, from cement or steel production – into clean electricity more economical and predictable.
Waste heat energy resource
Industrial waste heat is considered one of the greatest untapped energy resources. Orcan Energy is developing modular "efficiency packs" to unlock this potential and generate CO₂-free electricity. The new system is designed for high temperatures starting at around 200 degrees Celsius, but can also be used in geothermal projects starting at 120 degrees Celsius.
At the heart of the new "efficiency Pack eP 1000" is a high-performance turbine developed by Howden, which is used for the first time instead of a screw expander. While expanders are designed for limited power ranges, the turbine allows for a significantly higher energy yield. This increases the system's efficiency to over 20 percent.
The turbine also operates stably across a wide load range and automatically adapts to fluctuating temperature and pressure conditions. This is particularly important in industrial processes where the available waste heat is not constant.
Also new is the hermetic seal. This prevents any working fluid from escaping, ensuring the system remains permanently sealed and eliminating the risk of explosion. This simplifies installation, reduces maintenance, and lowers operating costs.
Contribution to industrial decarbonization
Andreas Sichert, CEO of Orcan Energy, says:
"With the eP 1000, we are opening up a new performance segment for industrial waste heat utilization and geothermal energy. The cooperation with Howden enables us to combine the advantages of highly developed turbine technology with our modular ORC platform."
The technology partner is also pleased about the collaboration. Volker Brakel, Head of Steam Turbines at Howden, explains:
“We are delighted to contribute our technology to this pioneering ORC system. Together with Orcan Energy, we offer industries a future-proof solution for reliably converting waste heat into clean energy.”
Particularly energy-intensive industries such as cement, steel and glass benefit from a scalable solution that reduces CO₂ emissions and lowers energy costs.
