Generator power definition according to ISO8528-1:2018

1. Continuous Power (COP)

The "Base-Load" Rating

Definition:

The maximum power which the generating set is capable of delivering continuously while supplying a constant electrical load for an unlimited number of hours per year under the agreed operating conditions, with maintenance carried out as prescribed by the manufacturer .

Key Characteristics for Customers:

· Load Profile: Must be constant (non-varying).

· Average Load Factor: 70% to 100% of the rating. Unlike other ratings, COP allows running at 100% load continuously (provided maintenance is followed) .

· Overload: Not available under ISO standards .

Best Application:

· Applications with no utility grid connection (Island mode/Remote mining).

· Base-load power plants where the generator runs 24/7 to supply a steady factory load.

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2. Prime Power (PRP)

The "Variable Load" Unlimited Rating

Definition:

The maximum power which a generating set is capable of delivering continuously whilst supplying a variable electrical load when operated for an unlimited number of hours per year under the agreed operating conditions .

Key Characteristics for Customers:

· Load Profile: Variable (load goes up and down).

· Average Load Factor: The permissible average power output over 24 hours shall not exceed 70% of the PRP rating .

· Overload Capability (Industry Standard): Typically 10% overload available for a maximum of 1 hour in every 12 hours (total not exceeding 25 hours per year). Note: While common in the industry, confirm with the specific manufacturer if this overload is allowed .

Best Application:

· Construction sites.

· Rural villages or factories where the grid is unreliable, and the load varies between day and night.

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3. Limited-Time Running Power (LTP)

The "Peak Shaving" Rating

Definition:

The maximum power available under the agreed operating conditions, for which the generating set is capable of delivering for up to 500 hours of operation per year .

Key Characteristics for Customers:

· Annual Usage: Maximum 500 hours/year.

· Load Factor: Can reach up to 100% average load factor during those hours .

· Context: This is often used for "Peak Shaving" (reducing demand from the utility grid during expensive peak hours) .

Best Application:

· Facilities with grid connection looking to lower electricity bills by running the generator only during peak tariff hours.

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4. Emergency Standby Power (ESP)

The "Backup" Rating

Definition:

The maximum power available during a variable electrical power sequence, for which a generating set is capable of delivering in the event of a utility power outage or under test conditions for up to 200 hours of operation per year .

Key Characteristics for Customers:

· Annual Usage: Maximum 200 hours/year (This is not for continuous use).

· Average Load Factor: Shall not exceed 70% of the ESP rating over 24 hours .

· Overload: None available.

· Note: This rating assumes a successful start and load acceptance in a short time (typically 10 seconds).

Best Application:

· Emergency backup for offices, residential buildings, and retail stores.

· Data centers (though specific "DCP" ratings exist for high-end data centers, ESP is standard for general backup) .

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5. Data Centre Power (DCP)

The "Mission Critical" Rating

Definition:

A specific rating defined in ISO 8528-1:2018 for generating sets used in data centers requiring high reliability, usually running in parallel with a reliable utility source or other sets .

Key Characteristics for Customers:

· Context: Requires a reliable utility source and specific environmental conditions.

· Grid Interaction: Usually not paralleled with the grid for export, but acts as a high-reliability backup .

· Performance: Intended to provide a very high degree of linearity and transient response for sensitive IT equipment.

Best Application:

· Tier III or Tier IV Data Centers.

· Hospitals (operating theaters).

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