Orcan Energy offers modular solutions for clean power generation from waste heat. The Munich-based startup is now cooperating with international turbomachinery specialist Howden and equipping its new ORC system “efficiency pack eP 1000” with a high-performance turbine developed by Howden. Major projects are already underway, including a collaboration between Holcim and Eon at the Dotternhausen cement plant.
With the new technology, the ORC system achieves efficiencies of over 20 percent. It operates efficiently even at partial load and responds flexibly to fluctuating waste heat volumes and temperatures. This makes the conversion of large industrial waste heat quantities – such as from cement or steel production – into clean electricity more economical and more reliable.
Waste heat as an energy treasure
Industrial waste heat is considered one of the largest untapped energy resources. Orcan Energy develops modular “efficiency packs” to unlock this potential and generate CO₂-free electricity. The new system is designed for high temperatures from about 200 degrees Celsius, but can also be used in geothermal projects from 120 degrees Celsius.
The core of the new “efficiency pack eP 1000” is a high-performance turbine developed by Howden, which is being used for the first time instead of a screw expander. While expanders are designed for limited performance ranges, the turbine allows significantly higher energy output. This increases the system’s efficiency to over 20 percent.
The turbine also operates stably over 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.
The hermetic seal is also new. This prevents the working fluid from escaping, keeps the system permanently sealed, and prevents explosion-hazard zones. This simplifies installation, reduces maintenance effort, and lowers operating costs.
Contributing 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 recovery and geothermal energy. The partnership with Howden enables us to combine the benefits of advanced 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 bring our technology into this pioneering ORC system. Together with Orcan Energy, we offer industries a future-proof solution to reliably convert waste heat into clean energy.”
Energy-intensive industries such as cement, steel, and glass particularly benefit from a scalable solution that reduces CO₂ emissions and lowers energy costs.
