The component and installation costs are difficult to qualify because of the size of the facility and the other variables associated with the existing plumbing and electrical codes. A rule of thumb is that a complete install can cost up to $35,000 (or even more) depending upon locale and whether it's a retrofit or new construction. This cost would include engineering design, installation, and components -- ecopower unit, holding tank, valves, disconnect switch, and electrical interface. A certified technician is required to install the system.
Every 4,000 hours—which under normal operation is once per year-- is the recommended time for changing oil, spark plug, and wire. Cost is about $200 and takes about an hour.
The sound made by the ecopower unit is less than 56 db(A) at one meter. This is quieter than a dishwasher, and about as loud as a refrigerator. It is designed to run inside, not outside.
The units are available for sale in North America now. (California certification is pending.)
The ecopower microCHP appliance has been in existence since 2000, and is fully implemented in Europe with over 1,600 installs.
The engine was developed in the late ’80’s as a long life engine for use in a heat pump. Development costs alone were over $70 million. Engine life is 40,000 hours (ten years under standard usage) and has proven itself to that level of operation. It can run 24/7 for 4,000 continuous hours if necessary, however, normal operation dictates that it will run intermittently, and therefore the standard maintenance interval is one year.
The units are assembled/manufactured at our facility in East Troy, Wisconsin. To be specific, the engines are manufactured in Wisconsin, and the complete units are assembled and tested there. Many of the components come from our European partner company in Germany which is also responsible for sale and distribution to the European community.
Dealers throughout North America are currently being contracted. However, if you have questions, contact Marathon Engine Systems, 2050 Energy Dr., East Troy, WI. 53120. 262.642.6436 or go on the web at www.marathonengine.com.
The savings associated with the ecopower appliance depend upon a number of variables. To begin with, the costs for electric power (grid power) and gas (natural gas or propane) will be the main determining factors. This unit is designed to complement grid power; however, the ability to do that effectively is based on the costs for fuel in your area. A rule of thumb is that if you are paying more than $0.14 to $0.16/ kwh, the unit will pay for itself. Please use our Energy Calculator located on the Cogeneration / ecopower: Grid Connected tab to aid you in determining if ecopower will be an advantage for your application.
Again, the answer is based on where you live and what the local policy is. Each state has it’s own regulations regarding Net Metering. You should research this to determine what amount of payback you can expect.
Again, legislation varies from state to state, and Federal Green Energy legislation is working toward a tax rebate, but homework relating to specific regions would have to be done.
Currently, the unit is designed to work with a grid interconnect (i.e., it must see grid power to function). We do have a grid independent version that will be available in 2009. The unit is called ecoisland and will be completely grid independent.
Again, as above, the current unit is designed to work with a power grid. Independent operation from the grid will be available with the ecoisland unit: That will also function as a backup power supply for your facility.
Without getting into thermodynamics, the unit will generate enough heat to handle a 2,500 sq. ft. house in Wisconsin with adequate heat. A note should be made that each residence varies because of insulation factors and related issues. More severe climates or larger houses might require two or more units which can be synched to complement each other. Also, boilers can be designed into most systems for supplementary heat.
There is always a place for the unused electricity to go - back to the grid. However, excess heat is a bit more complicated. In months where heat demand is minimal, the unit goes into "Summer Production Mode" and would be utilized for domestic hot water heating only. Swimming pools or spas are ideal "heat sinks" for the heat during these months when building heat is not required and you want to generate electricity.
2050 Energy Drive - East Troy, WI 53120
Ph: 262-642-6436 – Fax: 262-642-6437