Hershey Chocolate Company Western Plant
Oakdale, California

Plant Description - The 5.6 MW 501-KH Cheng Cycle cogeneration facility at Hershey's Western Plant began operation in February of 1987. Engineering services were provided by Gibbs & Hill, Inc. The cogeneration system incorporates an Allison 501 gas turbine modified for Cheng Cycle operation, an ABCO boiler, and a Bailey Network 90 control system.

Hershey was the owner and operator of the plant. During construction and startup, International Power Technology (IPT) provided design and controls engineering and training of Hershey operating personnel.

Project development was  provided by IPT. IPT supplied Hershey with periodic operations and maintenance support for the standby facility. Operators at the site were provided and directed by Hershey, with ongoing operations and maintenance support provided by IPT under a formal long-term contract.

Steam and electricity produced by the plant were used in chocolate processing. The plant steam load fluctuated daily and seasonally. The cogeneration unit filled most of the plant's steam demand with a packaged boiler helping to meet a maximum steam demand of 50,000 lbs/hr. Hershey ceased operations at this location in 2008.

IPT Services Provided - IPT advised Hershey of the best strategy for operation and maintenance scheduling. As the manager, IPT also instituted its proven system for utility management, maintenance management, permitting, cost tracking, and performance monitoring. The operations and maintenance services contract also provided Hershey with preferential access to IPT engineers, technicians, and field service personnel.