Webinar Q&A Summary
A shutdown does not disrupt the system; while the liquid rubber has some viscosity, it can be moved via pumps and does not cause damage if the plant stops for a period.
Can you explain the manufacturing process from rubber to steel? How does the propane get captured? And how is the diesel in a solid tire?
Tires enter a shredding process where they are separated into crumb rubber and steel; the steel is then recycled through standard steel systems. The rubber shreds enter a proprietary reactor with a catalyst that separates carbons, which are then condensed into diesel and compressed into propane. The remaining material is a utilitarian liquid industrial rubber.
How do I make money as an investor?
Investors buy shares and own equity in the company. As PowerLink grows, scales, and picks up contracts, the intention is to increase the value of the company and its shares.
How much scale do you currently have? How many digesters? Are they all the same or in different geographies?
The company currently operates a prototype R&D facility and a recently opened production warehouse in Arizona for unit deployment. They are also planning operations in South Carolina.
Do you see waste-to-energy plants or gasoline stations as your competition?
The team views other entities as partners in a common goal rather than competition. Because there are billions of pounds of waste tires (stranded resources) and the world’s energy crisis requires multiple solutions, they do not believe they are competing for a scarce market.
Do you have any government contracts? If not, how do you operate profitably?
While not subsidized, the company is in conversations with governments worldwide and has been awarded a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for 100MW in one instance. Profitability comes from fundraising, potential “tipping fees” to accept waste, and selling the resulting commodities (power, fuel, and rubber).
What is the lead time to set up an operation?
Lead times vary by scale: a small modular system could be up and running in a few days once manufactured. Larger warehouse-style systems depend on construction and equipment timelines. Grid connectivity timing also depends on local regulations.
Are you capable of recycling all tires (automotive, agricultural, industrial)?
Yes, any tire rubber can enter the system, though yields vary based on the original tire’s composition.
Who is your biggest competitor?
They do not believe they have a direct competitor because their process—catalytic molecular deconstruction—is wholly unique and different from pyrolysis, gasification, or incineration.
Are you looking for municipal partners to set up plants?
Yes, they are open to these conversations and have already spoken with several local, state, and foreign governments.
What would the investors’ money be used for?
The funds are used to “move the mission forward,” which has already included opening their manufacturing warehouse plant.
Do you have any pushback from communities about power plants being built?
No, the system is non-intrusive with minimal noise, no water consumption, and no steam, smoke, or off-gassing.
How costly is your technology per megawatt?
A specific cost per megawatt was not disclosed, but the company stated their production costs are low enough to remain highly competitive, noting they were one of only three organizations chosen out of 33 for a recent PPA.
When will your first commercial plant be operational? Will you allow investors to visit?
A specific “go-live” date has not been established for the next full-scale plant. Investor visits may be possible depending on partner regulations and the specific facility.
Do you intend to make microgrids?
Yes, the technology is highly conducive to microgrids for small-to-medium towns and villages.
Are there any federal or state regulations that you have encountered?
Not yet, as the process produces no exhaust, waste, or sludge, which typically triggers such regulations.
In case of a shutdown, what is the procedure? Does the rubber set up in the pipeline?
A shutdown does not disrupt the system; while the liquid rubber has some viscosity, it can be moved via pumps and does not cause damage if the plant stops for a period.