Kohler publishes product lifecycle analysis

This data-centric document facilitates sustainable purchasing choices and supports end users in adopting low-carbon strategies en route to achieving net zero.

The environmental declaration, embodied as a PEP ecopassport, was initially released for the KD3750-F backup generator as a model product. This foundational data will be used to estimate the environmental impact of other generators within the K175 series, spanning from KD2000 to KD4500. A PEP is classified as a Type III environmental declaration under the ISO 14025 standard, detailing environmental impacts at each lifecycle stage.

KD Series generators are essential for providing critical power in settings like data centres, hospitals, and water treatment facilities. While the current PEP ecopassport pertains to generators manufactured in France, Kohler Energy plans to extend this environmental declaration to products manufactured in the US.

“The publication of the market’s first environmental declaration for a generating set is a crucial step in our long-term sustainability strategy,” said Charles Hunsucker, President of Power Systems at Kohler Energy. “The transparent and standardised information in the document provides mission-critical generator customers with complete visibility about the environmental impact of generators from KD2000 to KD4500 – allowing them to make informed buying decisions as part of low carbon strategies. Kohler Energy is the first company to publish an environmental declaration for a generating set in mission-critical markets, emphasising leadership in sustainable technologies.”

The environmental declaration provides detailed insights into the environmental impacts of the KD Series generators across various stages including raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, installation, usage, and end-of-life. To compile this assessment, Kohler Energy worked collaboratively with key suppliers to gather data on energy use, emissions, resource consumption, and other significant factors. The accuracy and standard compliance of the environmental declaration were verified by independent external auditors.

The lifecycle analysis revealed insightful findings, such as the KD3750-F emergency generator predominantly consisting of recyclable metals (over 94%), and it does not rely on rare materials like lithium or cobalt, which are commonly used in electric batteries. The analysis also highlighted the environmental benefits of using alternative fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).

As part of Kohler Energy's broader sustainability strategy, which aims to enhance generator efficiency and invest in zero-emission technologies, the company’s range of mission-critical diesel generators is now compatible with HVO. This biobased fuel can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional diesel, without requiring modifications.

Furthermore, Power Systems has introduced Conscious Care, a novel maintenance programme designed to help clients reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease their carbon footprint. Additionally, Power Systems has unveiled its inaugural hydrogen fuel cell power system—a 100 kW Solid Polymer Electrolyte Membrane fuel cell that utilises green hydrogen for emergency backup, peak shaving, and demand response applications.

“We remain committed to offering a diverse range of power solutions and strategies that meet the varied needs of our customers as they transition to net zero,” added Charles Hunsucker.