Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) waste heat recovery systems are gaining traction in energy efficiency, suitable for both new builds and retrofits. Orcan Energy’s recent partnership with Goltens highlights the growing market potential, with CEO Andreas Sichert noting that over 100 TWhth of waste heat in shipping could be captured, enough to power 6.3 million people. Ships lose over half of their fuel energy as waste heat, primarily through exhaust gases, with about 50% available as low-temperature heat, ideal for ORC systems that convert this energy into electricity.
Jonah van Sluijs, Marine Sales and Business Development Manager at Orcan Energy, emphasizes that retrofits are increasingly popular, and new vessels are being designed with waste heat recovery in mind. Recent developments include modular ORC packages for constrained spaces and multi-source heat harvesting systems. The ePM200 XR unit is optimized for moderate-temperature sources, delivering up to 200 kW of electrical output, making it suitable even for vessels operating at partial loads.
Climeon’s HeatPower 300 system is particularly effective for vessels using alternative fuels like methanol, which produce a favorable waste heat profile. Recent orders for this system indicate its growing adoption in new vessels, including a cement carrier expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by over 60%. The market for ORC systems includes about 30% of new vessels and 8-10% of the existing fleet, particularly those under 15 years old, highlighting significant opportunities for energy recovery and cost savings in maritime operations.
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