FAST RESPONSE FOR RESILIENCY & SAVINGS

University of Maryland Baltimore
University of Maryland Baltimore

Powering Campus Continuity At The University Of Maryland

Overview

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Power Need

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), strengthened its intra-campus power plant to support critical operations across its medical and academic facilities. With growing demand and no room for disruption, the university needed a solution that could respond instantly, integrate seamlessly, and scale with future needs.

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Solution

The university expanded its on-site generation with a Cat® G3520 fast-response generator set designed for rapid load acceptance and seamless integration into its campus power system. Supporting both peak shaving and standby applications, the system works alongside existing infrastructure to stabilize performance and respond instantly to demand shifts or grid interruptions helping maintain consistent, reliable power across campus.

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Results

With enhanced generation capacity and fast-response capability, UMB improved resilience across its campus power system, reducing the risk of disruption while supporting critical operations without interruption. The upgraded plant also provides greater flexibility in managing energy use and positions the university to adapt to future growth, giving operators more control over performance, efficiency and reliability in a complex, high-demand environment.

Summary

By strengthening its intra-campus power plant with a Cat® G3520 fast-response generator set, the University of Maryland, Baltimore improved reliability, responsiveness, and operational control across critical campus facilities. The upgrade supports uninterrupted performance today while providing a flexible, scalable foundation for future energy needs.

summary
summary

Key Statistics

What keeps critical campus operations running without interruption? 

7 MW
On-site generation supports
reliable campus-wide power

~10-second
Startup time enables rapid
response to demand shifts  

Up to 70%
Load acceptance stabilizes
large load changes fast 

Actual results may vary based on site specific factors and requirements. Contact your local Cat dealer to understand the best solution for your needs.

The Impact

The upgraded system strengthens campus-wide reliability by delivering fast, dependable power when it’s needed most, helping reduce the risk of disruption across critical facilities. With greater control over energy use and the ability to respond quickly to demand changes, the university can operate more efficiently while supporting long-term growth and maintaining continuous performance in a high-demand environment.

the impact
the impact

Quote

“The Cat® generator is head and shoulders over
what we had had here.”

Gregory Payne
Manager of Systems Reliability
University of Maryland Baltimore 

Gregory Payne quote
Gregory Payne quote

What solution supports fast, dependable campus power? 

  • Gas Standby Rating
    2500 ekW @ 0.8pf
    2500 ekW @ 0.8pf
    Fuel Type
    Natural Gas, Hydrogen Blend (up to 5%)
    Natural Gas, Hydrogen Blend (up to 5%)
    Emissions/Fuel Strategy
    U.S. EPA Stationary Non-Emergency Certified
    U.S. EPA Stationary Non-Emergency Certified

    G3520 with FAST RESPONSE

    Caterpillar is leading the power generation marketplace with Fast Response generator sets engineered to deliver unmatched performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

    Learn More

Resources to Help You Succeed

FAQs

They provide immediate power during demand spikes or outages, helping maintain continuity for critical operations like healthcare, research, and campus infrastructure.

It reduces dependence on the grid, enables peak load management and provides backup power, helping ensure consistent performance across facilities.

Fast-response systems can quickly come online during periods of high demand, reducing strain on the grid and helping facilities manage peak energy use more efficiently without disrupting operations.