Montpelier, Vermont Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
Algepower LLC has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for its groundbreaking hydroponic system that transforms waste into sustainable resources. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 7536827, titled ‘Hydroponic growing enclosure and method for growing, harvesting, processing and distributing algae, related microorganisms and their by products’, introduces a self-contained, climate-controlled structure designed to cultivate algae and similar microorganisms efficiently.
Algepower’s system utilizes a translucent, air-supported enclosure housing vertically stacked cradles where a nutrient-rich slurry flows, promoting optimal growth conditions. This design enables continuous production of algae, which can be harvested for biofuels, animal feed, and other valuable byproducts. The integration of light sources beneath the cradles ensures consistent illumination, enhancing photosynthesis and yield.
What sets this innovation apart is its ability to repurpose agricultural waste into a productive medium, addressing both waste management and resource scarcity. The system’s modularity and scalability make it suitable for various settings, from urban environments to remote locations, offering a sustainable solution for food and energy production.
By combining advanced hydroponic techniques with efficient resource utilization, Algepower’s invention represents a significant step toward sustainable agriculture and renewable energy. This patent not only showcases technological ingenuity but also underscores the potential of integrating environmental responsibility with industrial innovation.