Key Takeaways
- ICM, Inc. forms strategic partnership with Energy Integration Inc. (EII) to deploy Doublr™ MVR technology
- Technology captures and reuses vapor heat to reduce energy demand and carbon intensity
- MVR systems have operated in an ICM-designed ethanol plant since 2020
- Solution compatible with both pressure and vacuum distillation configurations
- Collaboration expands access to energy-efficiency solutions across the biofuels sector
ICM, Inc. Expands Energy Efficiency Offering Through MVR Partnership
ICM, Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Energy Integration Inc., LLC (EII) to commercialize mechanical vapor recompression (MVR) systems for the ethanol industry.
Under the agreement, ICM will incorporate EII’s patented Doublr™ MVR technology into its design, engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services. The collaboration is intended to broaden the availability of energy-efficient solutions for ethanol producers and the broader biofuels industry.
Chuck Gallop, Director of Innovation at ICM, explained the operational benefits of the system. “In a typical process, valuable heat is lost when vapors are condensed and sent to cooling systems. The MVR system captures those vapors and uses compression to raise their pressure and temperature, allowing that heat to be reused elsewhere in the process. The result is lower energy demand and reduced carbon intensity while maintaining stable, reliable performance.”
Proven Technology with Flexible Integration
According to the companies, the MVR system has been operating in an ICM-designed ethanol facility since 2020. Its performance during that period supports its readiness for broader commercial deployment.
The technology can be integrated into both pressure and vacuum distillation configurations, allowing it to support a variety of plant designs and operational setups. By recovering and repurposing thermal energy within the production cycle, the system is designed to improve overall plant efficiency.
Bill Schafer, Owner of EII, said, “When combined with EII’s MVR technology, which has demonstrated proven efficiency and reliability, the result is a complete, bankable package for ethanol producers.” He added that ICM’s capabilities in process design, project execution, and operational support strengthen the commercial offering.
ICM, Inc. Focuses on Strategic Technology Integration
For ICM, the partnership aligns with its approach to disciplined technology integration and continuous operational improvement. For EII, the agreement provides expanded execution capacity and market reach through ICM’s established platform.
Shaun Hubler, Director of Technology Commercialization at ICM, stated, “By combining these commercially proven systems with our expertise, we can deliver solutions that help our customers optimize energy utilization and position their operations for long-term success.”
The companies indicated that the partnership will enable ethanol producers to access a commercially validated system designed to enhance efficiency while supporting evolving energy and carbon intensity targets within the biofuels industry.
