Manufacturer Linamar Contracts Caterpillar Gas-Fired Gen-Sets for Ontario Sites
Automotive and medical technology parts manufacturer Linamar Corp. will power several of its Canadian facilities with behind-the-meter gas-fired electricity generation through a long-term agreement with Caterpillar and Alectra Energy Solutions.
The integrated project announced this weekend involves 12 Cat G3500 series natural gas generator sets for on-site power to reduce Linamar’s energy costs during periods of peak demand. The 15-year power purchase agreement is contracted for Linamar’s operations in Guelph and Windsor, Ontario.
Alectra recently deployed the Caterpillar gen-sets for behind-the-meter power production.
“These capabilities from Caterpillar and Alectra support our long-term sustainable business model through an innovative and efficient energy solution that reduces our operational costs and enhances our position in a highly competitive industry,” Jim Jarrell, CEO of Linamar Corp., said in a statement.
Cat Financial facilitated the construction funding for the on-site power project. Local dealer Toromont Cat led engineering, procurement and construction work.
The turnkey power systems are dispatched through Caterpillar’s distributed energy resource The system (DERMS) software solutions to reduce Linamar’s energy costs during periods of peak grid demand.
“Our engagement with Alectra and Linamar demonstrates how our portfolio of power solutions leverages leading-edge digital technologies to improve performance and help customers achieve preferred energy outcomes,” said Melissa Busen, senior vice president of Caterpillar’s Electric Power Division.
Caterpillar’s G3500 series of engines and generators have been utilized for industries from oil and gas to manufacturing to data centers. The Irving, Texas-based company also has developed and contributed to numerous microgrid projects.
The DERMS software solutions from Caterpillar is designed to help customers monitor, manage, and monetize on-site energy assets. The Cat Active Management Platform (AMP) monitors patterns from the grid and client facilities, analyzes opportunities in energy markets, and then dispatches DERs to maximize results without disrupting normal business operations.
Linamar delivers manufacturing components for the mobility, medical and agricultural sectors. The Canadian firm has more than 60 manufacturing locations globally.
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