Orcan Energy is implementing together with Holcim and Eon Energy Infrastructure Solutions A large-scale project for industrial waste heat utilization. At the Holcim cement plant in Dotternhausen, previously unused waste heat from the production process is to be harnessed. The energy will flow into internal processes, potential heating networks, and electricity generation.
The strategic partnership aims to establish a cost-effective and scalable model for greater energy efficiency in energy-intensive industries. The focus is on recovering approximately 10 megawatts of thermal energy from the rotary kiln. At a height of approximately 70 meters, a heat exchanger extracts the waste heat from the exhaust gases. The heat is then transported to the respective consumers via a high-temperature thermal oil circuit.
ORC technology as the key to the energy transition
A central component of the project is power generation using Orcan Energy's ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) technology. The new high-performance eP 1000 system, which was specifically developed for large-scale industrial applications, is being used. The installed turbine responds flexibly to fluctuating heat quantities and operates efficiently at both full and partial load.
“Together with Holcim and Eon, we are demonstrating how ORC technology can drive the industrial energy transition – scalable, efficient and economical,”
explained Andreas Sichert, CEO of Orcan Energy.
E.ON will assume responsibility for the planning, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the plant as part of an energy-as-a-service model. Holcim will thus benefit from CO2 savings over the entire operating period – without any initial investment of its own. Dieter Schillo, Plant Manager Holcim Southern Germany, says:
"With this project, we are setting an important milestone on our path to decarbonizing cement production. The smart use of industrial waste heat not only reduces our Scope 2 emissions but also strengthens our role as a pioneer in sustainable building materials."
Orcan Energy plans further projects
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK) is funding the project. Further rollouts are already being planned. Eon CEO Marten Bunnemann sees great potential in this:
"For energy infrastructure, our goal is to reduce energy consumption where the greatest potential lies. This is especially true in highly energy-intensive industries. Projects like this demonstrate how industrial waste heat can not only be used efficiently but also integrated into the regional heat market."
Orcan Energy currently employs over 80 people and develops modular ORC systems for various industries in Munich. Pursue According to its own information, it already has more than 650 modules in use worldwide with over seven million operating hours.
