Global Life Sciences Company Gains Cost Stability through CHP Solution

The Challenge

With hundreds of facilities worldwide, the company sought ways to reduce operating expenses, lower emissions, and improve protection against volatile energy prices. Following the successful implementation of an energy project at another facility, the organization identified a larger site in South Wales, UK as a strong candidate for additional energy optimization initiatives.
Solar was evaluated but ultimately deemed unsuitable due to site constraints. The company required an alternative solution that could deliver meaningful savings, increase energy independence, and support critical business operations while minimizing capital expenditure.

The Solution

Centrica Business Solutions designed and delivered a fully funded 1 MW combined heat and power (CHP) trigeneration solution tailored to the facility’s energy and cooling requirements.
The system uses an MTU 8V4000 series generator to produce on-site electricity while recovering waste heat that would otherwise be lost. That heat is then used to power an absorption chiller, providing cooling for the facility and reducing reliance on traditional electrically driven chillers. By generating power and cooling more efficiently on-site, the solution helps lower overall electricity demand and reduces dependence on utility-supplied energy.
To accelerate deployment, Centrica Business Solutions completed early-stage development activities, including planning, permitting, and grid connection work before final contract execution. The project was delivered under a fully funded model, enabling the client to benefit from the system without upfront capital investment.

The Result

The CHP trigeneration system is expected to generate approximately $900,000 in annual cost savings while improving operational efficiency and reducing exposure to fluctuating energy prices and outages. By producing electricity and cooling on-site, the facility can reduce dependence on grid electricity while gaining greater predictability over future energy costs.
The project also supports the company’s broader emissions-reduction objectives and positions the site for future energy transition opportunities. The installed engine is hydrogen-ready, helping provide flexibility as energy technologies continue to evolve.