FAQs

Q:	Is COGEN a proven and reliable technology?
A:	Yes, it is documented that COGEN has saved hospitals, food-processors, educational facilities, fitness centers, hotels, office buildings, and telephone exchanges over $750 million over last 5 years.
Q:	How can SDP meet the tough California emissions requirements, when all other COGEN suppliers have left California?
A:	SDP meets CARB-7 by using MAN rich-burn engine, a 3-way catalyst with air fuel ratio control, and state-of-the-art controls.
Q:	If I let SDP build out COGEN on my site, how can I be sure I will receive the “guaranteed” savings on my power bills?
A:	SDP produces monthly reports, which explain clearly how savings are calculated based on actual power produced and used at customer site.
Q:	How much space does COGEN take up and where is it normally located on the customer site?
A:	For a single unit 250kW COGEN plant, 3 car parking spaces is enough space for the plant.
Q:	If COGEN is installed, do I cancel my accounts with utilities?
A:	No, CA requires 5% minimum electricity be provided by utility and gas company requires they receive a “transportation fee”.
Q:	Is COGEN noisy?
A:	No, it is housed in a sound-attenuated enclosure and meets local city permit requirements of 70 dcba.
Q:	What if my power needs expand beyond what is initially installed?
A:	SDP COGEN units are modular so new units can easily be added.
Q:	What if gas prices, which fuels the COGEN unit, go up more than electrical rates?
A:	The gas price vs. electric rate is known as the “Sparks Spread”. Historically gas has been less than 50% of the electrical rate. For COGEN to provide 40% savings, Gas rates must be less than 60% of electrical rates. SDP buys forward to protect this ratio.
Q:	Why is SDP so competitive against other COGEN suppliers?
A:	SDP produces in China and is fully integrated, thereby avoiding 3rd party mark-ups.
Q:	How can I check if SDP is really the best COGEN supplier?
A:	SDP has close relations with the utility companies, who will testify that SDP has met CARB-7 and has installed successful COGEN systems. SDP is also the North American Distributor for MAN engine company, who can confirm SDP is the only COGEN company actively doing new projects and meeting CA emissions requirements.