Kohler Engines and Grastim agreement for a hybrid self-generation plant
Kohler Engines and Grastim agreement for a hybrid self-generation plant proceeds with first inauguration
Dec. 18, 2023 – A new photovoltaic plant, developed by Grastim JV, a company specialized in industrial decarbonization, is now operational at the Kohler Engines site in Reggio Emilia, Italy. The inauguration of this facility marks the tangible realization of an ambitious hybrid and self-generation project resulting from the agreement between Grastim and Kohler Engines.
The project entails the integration of an 860.2 kW photovoltaic system, situated on the roof of the SMUT building (Block A), with an expected output of 1148 MWh. Comprised of 1870 panels, each with a capacity of 460 W, this plant is part of a broader initiative that encompasses a 2 MW trigeneration plant, currently in the permitting stage.
The combined impact of these two plants is substantial, anticipating a noteworthy reduction in CO2 emissions, potentially reaching 1,300 tons per year, equivalent to 19.5 percent of the site's total energy emissions. Additionally, a savings of up to 15 percent in energy costs is projected.
The hybrid power plant is poised for future expansion, with plans to extend photovoltaics to parking areas and other buildings, adding an extra 2 MW. Moreover, the cogeneration module is designed to be "hydrogen ready," capable of incorporating up to 20 percent hydrogen in the fuel mix. Green hydrogen, produced on-site through electrolysis in times of excess PV production, can be reintegrated into the trigenerator.
Baldo Pavolini, Investments and Operations Director of Grastim, emphasizes the significance of this initiative, stating, "The future lies in hybridizing new technologies with more established ones. Technological innovation and the integration of diverse energy sources are essential for a sustainable energy transition, benefiting both the environment and businesses."
Grastim remains committed to developing and incorporating cutting-edge technology solutions for industrial multinationals striving to decarbonize their manufacturing operations. As a global player in the cogeneration sector, Grastim's commitment extends beyond solar and hydrogen to include innovative solutions like CO2 capture, biomethane, and "waste to power."
Through this venture, Kohler Engines reinforces its sustainability strategy by investing in various advanced technology solutions on the path to energy transition.
About Grastim
Grastim develops high-efficiency technology solutions for industrial customers committed to decarbonizing their manufacturing operations. Entering the market as one of the leading companies in the design of co-trigeneration systems, the organization is steadily expanding its portfolio with increasingly cutting-edge, integrated and "green" technologies. Grastim's goal is to ensure economic savings, a reduction in pollutant emissions, self-consumption, and greater electrification and flexibility of the grid. Grastim is present in Italy, and several EU countries, as well as in the UK and the USA for a business that is now worth more than 70 million euros annually and boasts among its customers primary multinational groups such as Unilever, PPG, Novamont, Froneri, Kraft-Heinz and Nomad Foods. For more details, please visit www.grastim.it.
About Kohler Engines
Kohler has been manufacturing engines for more than a century and has continued to grow its product portfolio ever since its inception to increasingly bring ease and convenience to the lives of end users worldwide. The company offers a comprehensive range of diesel, petrol and gas engines up to 140 hp of power – adopted globally by machine and equipment manufacturers in the most important sectors of industry (construction, earth-moving, agriculture, generators and gardening). For more details, please visit kohlerengines.com.
About Kohler Energy
Kohler Energy, a global leader in energy resilience solutions, brings bold design and powerful impact to the energy systems that sustain people and communities everywhere around the world. It is an integral part of Kohler Co., with solutions across Home Energy, Industrial Power Systems, and Powertrain Technologies. Leveraging the strength of its portfolio of brands – Power Systems, Home Generators, Kohler Uninterruptible Power, Clarke Energy, Heila Technologies, Curtis Instruments, and Engines. With more than a century of industry leadership, Kohler Energy builds resilience and goes beyond functional, individual recovery to create better lives and communities. For more details, please visit kohler.com/energy.
Contatti
Elena Veronelli
Grastim
