Enel X is the market leader in deploying backup generation to participate in demand response (DR) programs. Working across hundreds of unique generator facilities in North America since 2016, Enel X and its vendors have accumulated deep technical expertise in emissions upgrades and permitting.
Our turnkey solution helps energy consumers earn payments, reduce emissions, and ensure regulatory compliance with federal, state and local permitting requirements. Enel X charges no upfront cost to customers, and recovers hardware and installation costs through DR earnings. Once the payback period is complete, the traditional DR revenue-sharing model passes payments onto customers.
Why do I need to upgrade my engine to participate?
In 2010, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruled that reciprocating internal combustion engines (RICE) must comply with the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESAHP). The key pollutant this ruling seeks to regulate is carbon monoxide (CO).
Enel X will install equipment that reduces CO emissions from generators by an average of more than 70%. After installation, we continuously monitor generator emissions to ensure the engine remains compliant.
What happens during the installation process?
The installation will take approximately 1 business day, and the Enel X team will install two pieces of equipment:
- A Diesel Oxidation Catalyst, which is operationally similar to catalytic converters in automobiles, will be installed along the exhaust stack where space is available.
- A Continuous Parametric Monitoring System (CPMS) reads the outputs from the catalyst to ensure emissions improvements are realized. The CPMS also stores and transmits this data for ongoing compliance tracking.
In some cases, crankcase ventilation may also be installed.
How do I ensure my equipment continues to be compliant?
Enel X will work with customers to develop a site-specific monitoring plan. This includes 3 hours of initial stack tests (or emissions tests) at connected load, with additional stack testing every 3-5 years depending on generator run time.
Our vendor will handle the EPA permitting paperwork, including annual compliance reporting for all engines larger than 300 HP and an annual CPMS performance evaluation, which requires on-site thermocouple replacement to ensure accurate temperature reads.
Non-compliant generators require the following upgrades to meet EPA emissions requirements:
Equipment
- Diesel Oxidation Catalyst, sized to reduce CO emissions by a minimum of 70%
- Continuous Parametric Monitoring System (CPMS)
- Crankcase ventilation, if needed
Monitoring and Reporting
- Three 1-hour stack tests at connected load, additional stack testing every 3-5 years depending on generator run hours
- Annual compliance reporting (for engines greater than 300 HP)
- Annual CPMS performance evaluation (for engines greater than 500 HP)
