History
Seahorse Power Company was founded in 2003 with a mission to solve environmental problems through the use of innovative cost-saving devices. We continue that mission today.
Originally, Founder Jim Poss investigated ambitious new approaches to geothermal power plants and offshore wind energy—the nexus of the name Seahorse Power (horsepower from the sea). As he pursued his work, he started to realize that environmental problems everywhere needed solving and he turned his attention to the challenges of waste management.
While doing an independent study in business school, Poss learned that garbage trucks consume over 1 billion gallons of diesel each year in the U.S. alone. The vehicles get only 2.8 mpg on average, and they are one of the most expensive vehicles to operate. Drawing on this insight, as well as his experience in electric vehicle engineering and an enthusiasm for environmental solutions, Poss formed a new company—one that gave birth to the world's first solar-powered compactor.
To date, over 1,500 BigBellies have been sold across the U.S. and in 15 countries around the world. Improvements have been made to the original machine and the newest version is 200 lbs. lighter with a 33% smaller footprint. The product line has expanded to include BigBelly accessories such as animal latches, advertising panels and attachable recycling units (kiosks). New innovations are being developed, including a BigBelly wireless notification system and a larger commercial scale version of BigBelly.
