Frequently Asked Questions
Geothermal Power Generation What is the 'Green Machine'?
The Green Machine is a heat-to-power generating system. It captures waste heat from almost any geothermal or industrial source to generate fuel-free, emission-free electricity. Built on a skid, it's both modular and mobile, meaning it's easy to transport and install as a single unit or in multiples to match available heat.


Will ElectraTherm's Green Machine work on any recoverable heat source?
The Green Machine works best with temperatures on the hot water side from 190-240°F (88-116°C) water with flows from 150-170 GPM (34-39 m3/hr). Green Machines also require a cooling source, which should ideally be 50-70°F (10-21°C). Options include cooling towers, direct air cooled radiators, or surface water with a similar flow rate to the heat source up to 220 GPM (50 m3/hr).


Can source heat be of too high a temperature?
No. ElectraTherm power systems have been designed to recover energy from any heat sources previously left to waste. Higher temperatures can be recovered through proper system interface or allocating heat to multiple ElectraTherm systems via secondary loops to those higher temperatures.


What is the environmental impact of using ElectraTherm heat to power systems?
None. Units are self contained, fuel-free, 100% environmentally friendly and give off zero emissions. No EPA permitting is required.


How much maintenance is required?
ElectraTherm Green Machines require minimal maintenance, similar to a standard HVAC unit. Simple activities such as annual belt inspection and assessment, and monthly water treatment and testing are required, often part of current cooling system management conducted by the host facility.


How much operator time is required?
Minimal. ElectraTherm heat to power generating systems are self-contained and self-monitored, allowing direct or remote operation, and on-site or off-site management.


How do I know if the ElectraTherm Green Machine will work with my application?
ElectraTherm can provide an initial assessment of your application and customize a basic cost/benefit analysis. To estimate the ElectraTherm Green Machine's power output at your site, Contact Us.


Does ElectraTherm provide turnkey installation and service?
Yes. Some facilities will find their internal staff adequate to install and service ElectraTherm systems with minimal help from ElectraTherm engineers. However, dealer support is available, as well as third party engineering, installation and 24/7 service support .