5 Tips for a Successful Turnkey Installation of a Generator

Turnkey Generator Installation

MTU 250kW Diesel Genset with Unique Turnkey Site Conditions: Distance, Trench, Slope, Fencing, Bollards, Slab Height and Vent Stacks.

We know a thing or two about generators.

“Turnkey” is an ambiguous term in the Power Generation industry. Everyone seems to have their own definition of what it means with respect to the installation of a generator set, but for us it’s simple. Turnkey means we do everything required to successfully furnish and install the equipment. The initial site visit, design & engineering, electrical, procurement, startup & testing, maintenance & monitoring and other related tasks are all on us. All you have to do is sit back and relax.

Why do we call it turnkey?

It is turnkey for our customers because we cope with all projects ups and downs, we provide expertise to turn unexpected obstacles into working solutions.

A turnkey power solution is only as good as the experience of the provider and the transparency provided before, during, and after the plan is approved. Each solution has common points but a large majority of a generator installation projects will be unique to each jobsite.

The Basics Come First

“What would it cost to install a generator at my site?” That’s always the first question our customers ask. There are many factors that will dictate the cost of an installation, and it’s important that your installer is familiar with those factors. Where will the generator be located? Is there landscaping required? How many feet of conduit will be required?

An initial site-walk and load monitoring are a first step. Our qualified local electricians will gather onsite data for proper load sizing, review potential installation locations, and collect any information necessary to allow us to develop a proposal for the project.

We’ll also evaluate your required timelines relative to manufacturer lead times for the equipment and explore avenues to speed things up if you’re in a rush.

Plan for the Unexpected

Different cities have completely different processes and requirements. Whether it is permits, codes, construction, unions, transportation, flood zones or after-hour work requirements – these impact almost every aspect of a project timeline. There are numerous variables that impact permit approvals. We’re experienced in working with municipalities across the country, so we can get the job done anywhere.

Environmental Considerations

Air quality permits and fuel permits may require equipment specifications changes. Making poor or flawed estimates related to emissions, noise, or proximity of fuel to buildings can make for unpleasant change orders and delays. This includes:

• Location of the concrete pad

• Adding after-market PM exhaust controls

• Sound attenuation inside the enclosure

• Relocation of conduits

• City Inspections

• Fuel tank codes and requirements

• Our goal is always to identify what is needed ahead of time, so you aren’t caught by surprise.

Landlord Approvals

Landlord coordination can impact an otherwise approved and permitted plan. Fencing, walls, bollards, and landscaping should be reviewed by the landlord ahead of permitting, not after. Considerations made by owners/landlords need not surprise. The ping-pong of permitting and landlords needs to be managed quickly, efficiently and with tact.

Importance of Transparency

Building credibility and trust through transparency from the beginning eliminates conflict between all parties. We’ll advise you in establishing contingencies and we’ll utilize place holders for items that may or may not be required. Experience is an advantage, but the work is ever-changing, and transparency is key in getting your project accomplished successfully, on time and on budget.

For more information about Global Power Supply’s turnkey power and installation services contact us today at 1-800 706-0906.