EGSA: The Voice of the On-Site Power Generating Industry

In 1965, at a time when on-site electrical power generation was still in its infancy, a handful of U.S. generator-set manufacturers saw the need for a more focused identity for their industry. Banding together, they formed what is known today as the Electrical Generating Systems Assn . (EGSA).

After 43 years of service to the industry, the association has come a long way from its modest beginnings. It now boasts more than 600 companies doing business in virtually every corner of the world. Member firms include manufacturers, consulting and specifying engineers, manufacturer’s representatives, distributors, service firms, energy management companies, end-users of electrical power systems, and others. In fact, EGSA is now the world’s largest organization dedicated to on-site power generation.

On-site power generation technology goes far beyond supplying emergency power in the event of a power outage. Today’s installations guard against power fluctuations at computer hubs and medical establishments where constant and reliable power is critical; low-emission hybrid batteries power cars and wind-powered generators provide electricity for entire towns; and portable power generation devices allow mobile army divisions to produce their own power at the battlefield. Fuel cells generate power on a small scale without harmful emissions, enabling factories and businesses to produce their own power right in their own back yard. On-site power generation eliminates dependence on power lines and centralized power plants and decreases the impact natural disasters have on heavily populated areas.

As the demand for reliable, quality power increases, more businesses are taking advantage of on-site power generation to cut costs, safeguard their computer systems, and reduce pollution. The industry, in turn, has continued to adapt to consumer demands with new products and innovative technology. Thanks to skyrocketing gasoline prices, the need for alternative, cheaper energy has never been greater. As a result, the on-site power generation industry is increasingly playing a major role in meeting the world’s energy needs through such advanced technologies as fuel cells, wind and solar power.

About the Association

EGSA’s mission is to bring together representatives of the various segments of the global on-site power generation industry and improve the performance and profitability of members and the quality of service to power users. The association strongly believes that the industry can be improved through education, and has taken the lead in providing quality educational opportunities through its Conference Programs, On-Site Power Schools, and Generator Technician Certification Program.

EGSA also has authored and published On-Site Power Generation: A Reference Book, a 500-plus page book that has long been considered the “bible” of the industry. Currently in its fourth edition, the reference book contains the most complete and up-to-date technical information covering virtually all phases of on-site electrical power generation, including diesel and natural gas engine generator sets, switchgear, controls, software, induction generators, fuel systems, cooling systems, batteries and chargers, and more.

As the world’s energy demands increase and traditional energy resources are depleted, forecasts predict it is only a matter of decades before the current energy generation infrastructure will become inadequate to supply the needs of the world. While on-site power generation may not be the only answer to the world’s energy problems, our industry and our association are committed to developing technology and products to alleviate them.

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