Energy Plant Operations

The Central Energy Plant operates 24/7 to provide safe, sustainable, cost-effective heating and cooling services to Michigan Tech's campus. The Central Energy Plant was constructed in 1949-1950. Originally coal was used as fuel for the boilers, but the boilers were upgraded to natural gas in the 1970s. The Central Energy Plant also has 4 generators, which are rarely used, but are available in the event of a power outage. The University would be able to provide 100% backup coverage to campus using these generators.

130K

lbs of steam per hour at 80psig
9.0MW

of electrical generation at 12,470 volts
50%

electricity purchased is from renewable wind power

Frequently Asked Questions

How are the buildings on campus heated?

Most of the buildings on campus are heated using steam that is produced in the Central Energy Plant (CEP) down by the Keweenaw Waterway. The steam is generated at 80 psi and is reduced in pressure at each building to 15psi or less. The newer buildings are often heated with smaller hot water boilers or heat pumps. Our best steam boiler is about 86% efficient (not bad for a 75 year old boiler), and our newer technologies can achieve 95%+ efficiency.

What kind of fuel is used to heat the buildings on campus?

Natural gas is used in our boilers, which are fitted with low NOx burners that efficiently mix the fuel and air to precisely control combustion to minimize emissions. In the newer buildings, some burn natural gas in smaller hot water boilers locally, and others have electric heat pumps.

Why can't we use only solar and wind energy?

While wind and solar energy offer tremendous benefits, presently there are not enough of these devices in service to provide all of the power that we need to both heat and operate the University. In addition, the ability to store wind and solar energy for use around the clock is not yet available. Michigan Tech uses over 50% wind and solar power.

Does the Central Energy Plant produce electricity?

Yes, the plant contains a generating plant with four Caterpillar 16 cylinder diesel generators. They can generate a combined 9 megawatts of electricity. presently, campus uses about 5 megawatts of power, so we have some extra capacity to allow for maintenance downtime. Producing power with diesel fuel is not cost effective or as clean as other power generating technologies, so the generators are only used for emergency backup power. The generating plant was built in 2006 and has less than 800 hours of operation since it went online. Most of that operating time is from the monthly test runs to ensure that the units are ready for work at a moment’s notice.

Can you tour the Central Energy Plant?

Yes, we can arrange a 60 minute tour of the plant for groups up to 15 people. We do tours year round. Tour attendees must be 12 years of age or older. We provide the necessary safety gear, but please wear good walking shoes that are suitable for walking on concrete and steel grating. We can even customize the tour to the particular interests of your group.

To schedule a tour, send a request to chp-l@mtu.edu and we will work with you to schedule the event. Tours must be scheduled several days in advance.