Caterpillar introduces power node for its natural-gas generator set

Caterpillar has unveiled a 3.1 MW power node for the Cat G3520 Fast Response natural-gas generator set, marking the company’s largest single-unit output with fast-response capability.

The launch enhances Caterpillar’s offering for grid-connected and microgrid projects, supporting both standby and demand response applications.

The Cat G3520 Fast Response generator set is designed for critical operations where continuous power is essential. It offers key advantages, such as diesel-like performance that significantly reduces downtime and enables customers to join utility-sponsored demand response programmes, creating new opportunities for cost savings and revenue generation.

Built for reliability and speed, the generator set can start and accept load from a cold start in under 10 seconds, meeting NFPA 110 standards for dependable emergency power. This rapid performance ensures operational continuity for essential facilities such as hospitals, data centres, emergency service hubs and high-occupancy buildings. It is available for both 50 and 60 Hz applications, offering flexibility for global markets.

Key features

In addition to ensuring power reliability, the Cat G3520 Fast Response also delivers financial advantages. Customers can participate in demand and emergency response programmes that reward users for reducing or shifting power consumption during peak times. These benefits can be further enhanced through integration with Caterpillar’s Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS), such as Cat AMP, which automates programme enrolment and verifies participation in real time to maximise economic returns.

“Our fast-response natural-gas generator sets deliver unique performance, comparable to the start-up and load acceptance of diesel-fueled power solutions,” said Melissa Busen, senior vice president for Caterpillar’s Electric Power Division. “This new 3.1 MW power node supports our customers’ energy resilience in critical power applications.”

The new model expands Caterpillar’s line of natural-gas power solutions with fast-response capabilities, built upon the proven Cat 3500 engine platform, trusted worldwide for its durability and performance. Caterpillar now offers seven 60 Hz standby power nodes ranging from 500 kW to 3.1 MW, all certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for both emergency and non-emergency applications. The company also provides 2.5 MW and 3.1 MW models for 50 Hz operating environments, further strengthening its global portfolio of high-performance power systems.