In the scope of renewable energy, we draw attention to a little known technique to harness solar and geothermal energy. The design here proposed and analyzed is a conceptual hybrid of several patents. By means of a modified organic Rankine cycle, energy is obtained utilizing buoyancy force of a working fluid. Based on thermodynamic properties we propose and compare the performance of Pentane and Dichloromethane as working fluids. Theoretical efficiencies up to 0.26 are estimated for a 51 m (Pentane) and 71.5 m (Dichloromethane) high column of water in a regime below 100 degrees C operation temperature. These findings are especially relevant in the scope of distributed energy systems, combined cycle plants, and low-temperature Rankine cycles. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.