What is an Organic Rankine Cycle?

It is very similar to a steam cycle like the kind used in producing electricity by heating water. Water boils at 212 degrees and the resulting steam comes out of the boiler at high pressure which then drives a turbine. When the steam exits the turbine it is cooled and condenses back into water. A pump then sends the water back to the boiler to make a continuous cycle. An Organic Rankine Cycle uses an organic compound instead of water and the organic working fluid boils furiously at low temperatures, about 140 degrees. The cycle is the same as a steam cycle but it requires much less heat so low temperature solar water panels can be used along with low temperture geothermal wells or waste heat from industrial processes.

Are the PowerVerde systems better than photovoltaic panels that are so popular now?

The PowerVerde systems have several advantages over Photovoltaic systems. Number one is that the PowerVerde systems work with any hot water source, not just solar thermal panels, including geothermal, industrial waste heat and biomas. Also, the system can store heat for use after the sun goes down by using an underground tank that is full of the new Phase Changing Materials. Photovoltaics rely on batteries which are expensive, environmentally unfriendly and need replacing periodically. The most important advantage is the intial cost of installation.

How much electrical power will the systems produce?

At present, two systems are under development. One that will produce up to 10kW and the other will produce up to 20kW.

When are you going to answer some of the questions about home and business installations?

We are testing different installation methods at this time.  As we complete our methods of installation and instructions they will be posted to a special page on this web site.  Sign up for our newsletter and you will be notified by Email!