FAQ
How does it work?
A modified steam cycle is used to generate power the same way a conventional power plant does—just at a smaller scale.
Where does it work best?
Cool weather homes and small businesses that need both power and heat, as room heat or domestic hot water.
What separates BRASH from other CHPs?
BRASH is an external combustion hydronic heating system first, that also generates power. The BRASH patented engine cycle generates heat and uses steam energy for power proportional to the homes demand for that heat and power. Internal combustion CHP systems mostly use lawnmower or snowmobile engines to make power first, then use engine exhaust to heat the home or bath water.
How big is the system’s footprint?
BRASH is a direct replacement for the home’s current basement furnace. Similar in size.
Does BRASH have “black start” capability?
Yes, a BRASH CHP delivers heat and electric power during a power failure.
How many installers needed to install?
BRASH requires 3 steps to install: [1] initial site visit by a qualified tech to measure clearances and identify interfaces, [2] HVAC tech installs the BRASH unit as a working boiler to restore heat and hot water in the home, [3] a qualitied electrician completes the power interface to the grid and “handshake” the IoT features. Roughly 4-5 hours of installation time.
What is the near-term plan to roll out BRASH?
We have systems to install and some interested gas and power utilities around North America. We’re looking for HVAC/electrical contractors who are ready for something more advanced than simply another HVAC or solar installation.
Path to Market?
Utilities, Installers, Homeowners.
Who benefits and who pays?
They all do: Utilities will subsidize the installation for the distributed energy resource benefit, homeowners benefit from the first complete energy solution, and installers will make it happen. Estimated cost per home installation: $18,000.
How long to commercialization?
First twenty systems available 2021, initial production 2022.
Where do you see setting up U.S. operations?
Northeast HQ with regional offices in Midwest, Canada, New England.