Volvo Penta enhances power generation portfolio with G17 natural gas engine
As global energy consumption accelerates, driven particularly by data centers, utilities and other mission-critical infrastructure, the need for reliable, scalable and lower-emission backup power has never been greater. Volvo Penta’s new natural gas engine is designed to deliver dependable performance that scales with the demands of these high-growth sectors.
The G17 natural gas engine, a counterpart to Volvo Penta’s proven D17 genset engine, represents a significant step forward in the company’s transformation journey, delivering fuel flexibility, scalable performance, and a pathway toward a more decarbonized and resilient energy future.
“The energy transition isn’t one-size-fits-all,” says Kristian Vekas, Product Manager for Industrial Power Generation at Volvo Penta. “It requires multiple technologies and fuel pathways working in parallel. The G17 expands our power generation portfolio with a gas option engineered to meet rising global demand for dependable, lower-emission solutions that are backed by the strength of the Volvo Group and our global support network. It reflects our commitment to providing customers with fit-for-purpose solutions to support their energy objectives as the landscape continues to evolve.”
Built on the same platform as the powerful D17 engine, the G17, a 17-liter, 6-cylinder, spark-ignited model, operates on both pipeline-quality, conventional natural gas and renewable natural gas, offering a power alternative that can support customers in reducing their carbon footprint today while maintaining the performance, uptime and reliability they depend on.
Pipeline-ready natural gas engine
The G17’s ability to run using both pipeline-quality natural gas and renewable natural gas provides customers with a lower-carbon alternative to diesel in applications where uptime, environmental performance and operational resilience are critical. The flexible design allows operators to connect directly to existing gas infrastructure, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for additional fuel-conditioning systems.
“The G17 is engineered to deliver lower emissions without trade-offs,” says Kristian. “Its flexible fuel capability helps reduce carbon intensity while maintaining the power density, responsiveness and durability customers expect from Volvo Penta’s heavy-duty platform.”
Engineered to deliver approximately 450 kWe at 1800 rpm, the G17 offers high power output from a compact footprint. With a smaller enclosure, customers have the capability to reduce installation space and housing material costs, while optimized load acceptance and fast power delivery help ensure dependable performance during demand spikes or grid transitions.
Flexible, cost-effective solution
The G17 is designed for reduced emissions, NOₓ and particulate matter. Advanced combustion controls, low-pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), high-efficiency three-way catalyst and compliance with U.S. EPA stationary power application standards make it a relevant option for companies with strong ESG commitments or strict air quality zones.
The engine’s compact, stackable platform is ideally suited for space-contained environments such as data centers. The natural gas engine can also be integrated into broader energy strategies that combine internal combustion engines with renewable fuels and battery systems for energy storage. This modular, scalable architecture enables operators to build flexible power systems that can evolve with changing demand. The potential for lower fuel costs compared with diesel and reduced noise levels further enhance both economic and community compatibility.
Built on Volvo Group’s proven automotive-scale technology, the G17 benefits from platforms trusted globally in demanding heavy-duty applications. With a footprint and cooling system equivalent to the D16 and D17, the engine simplifies installation and retrofit opportunities and is delivered as a fully integrated OEM solution. A streamlined component layout and fewer cylinders improve serviceability and can contribute to reduced total cost of ownership over the engine’s lifecycle.
Support for mission-critical operations
As with the entire Volvo Penta power generation range, the G17 natural gas engine is supported by the company’s extensive global dealer network, working to strengthen performance, reliability and uptime throughout the solution’s service life.
“With the G17 gas engine, Volvo Penta is expanding its ability to deliver integrated energy solutions that combine proven technology, emerging fuel pathways and strong service,” concludes Kristian. “This approach gives customers a reliable, scalable foundation to progress with their long-term energy goals.”
G17 natural gas engine premiere at PowerGen
Volvo Penta will showcase the G17 natural gas engine at PowerGen in San Antonio on January 20-22 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and invites attendees to engage and learn more at Booth 2529.