Genentech Critical Power System

South San Francisco, California

Genetech's Building 8 features an integrated diesel critical power system that allows the entire building to be backed up, instead of a select few critical loads. This system consists of a package unit with all the required appurtenances, simplifying the installation. The installation required bringing in power to the module and connecting the output to the building's main switchboard.

The system module consisted of 2 x 1800kva diesel engine, induction coupling and generator bolted on a solid base frame. In normal mode, the diesel engine sits idle and the generator acts as a dynamic filter and provides power factor correction. Upon loss of utility power, the engine starts, and then the generator provides electrical power to the entire building. The induction coupling contains an inner rotor that stores sufficient energy to bridge the diesel start time.