MAN 51/60G Engines Bound for Texas Gas Power-Plant

The Kerrville Public Utility Board (KPUB) has selected MAN Energy Solutions to supply six 18V51/60G gas engines, providing a total capacity of 124 MW. The gas engines are used in a peak-load power plant in Texas, which increases grid stability. It provides fast and flexible power during periods of high demand or when other sources are unavailable. KPUB is a municipal utility that supplies electricity to over 24,000 customers in Kerrville and the surrounding area.

 “We’re proud of the experienced team we’ve assembled for this project, with MAN Energy Solutions serving as its foundation,” said Mike Wittler – KPUB General Manager and CEO. “Their technology, professionalism, and support through the early stages of development have impressed us at every turn. This partnership strengthens our ability to protect our ratepayers and continue offering some of the lowest electric rates in Texas for decades to come.”

Alexander Stöckler – Head of Sales, Tendering & Project Management, Power Segment – at MAN Energy Solutions, said: "We are delighted that KPUB has chosen our proven gas engines that are already being used in a large number of power-plant projects worldwide. As a reliable and efficient solution, they will prove ideal for ensuring grid stability. This is now our second power-plant order for 18V51/60G engines in the USA, boosting our reputation as a competent partner for American gas power-plant projects."

MAN Energy Solutions will also provide engine’ and plant-specific systems and components, and will handle the transport of the engines to the site. The project was selected in the first group of applications for potential support through the Texas Energy Fund (TEF) and is currently undergoing the fund’s due diligence process. The TEF provides financing for gas-fired power generation projects across the state. MAN Energy Solutions has supported KPUB throughout the application process and continues to assist during the review phase. The engines are scheduled for delivery in mid-2026, with operation starting in 2027.

Reliable energy supply with low emissions

The ongoing expansion of renewable energy in Texas requires measures to stabilise the power grid. MAN Energy Solutions' gas engines are ideally suited to flexibly stepping in at times of high power demand such as during periods without sun or wind due to their low ramp-up times of under five minutes.

Johann Stocks – Head of Power, Americas – at MAN Energy Solutions, said: “Our engines reliably and efficiently deliver electricity whenever required and for as long as necessary. Similarly, their exhaust after-treatment system has been specifically developed and optimized for the requirements of the US market to achieve ideal emission values."

KPUB will operate the engines with natural gas. The exhaust after-treatment system reduces harmful emissions – such as nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds – to an absolute minimum through catalytic reduction and oxidation catalysts. Thanks to their ability to operate with synthetic methane, biofuels, or a hydrogen mixture, the engines offer additional pathways to further reducing CO₂ emissions.

Modular power-plant design

Through this project, MAN Energy Solutions is delivering its customer-friendly power-plant concept, which is characterised by a high degree of modularization. Prefabricated assemblies, especially for engine-specific systems, reduce complexity, simplify, and accelerate the construction process while clear building interfaces significantly facilitate planning with other project participants.