Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Company Background and Capabilities


What does USP&E do?

USP&E is a global provider of engineering, procurement, construction, and O&M services for power plants. The company supplies new, used, and surplus generators (diesel, gas turbine, natural gas, HFO), offering turnkey EPC solutions, feasibility studies, modular rapid deployment, parts sales, and ongoing maintenance services. We also leverage our own proprietary software called SMARTPOWER AI/ML, supply and refurbish compression stations and fuel farms, and have a suite of renewable products and services as well.


How many years has USP&E been in business?

USP&E was founded in 2002 and has over 22 years of industry experience.


In which countries does USP&E have active projects?

USP&E has completed projects in over 35 countries and currently operates live projects in the USA, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, with notable recent experience in countries like South Africa, Mali, Liberia, Togo, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Syria, Qatar, UAE, Sierra Leone, Saudi Arabia, and Ukraine.


How many employees does USP&E have globally?

USP&E maintains a highly skilled staff of more than 250 employees worldwide, including engineers and project managers.


Does USP&E own the assets it sells or act as a broker?

USP&E owns a portion of its inventory, is exclusive on specific assets, and acts directly with asset owners for additional listings. The company is not just a broker; it operates as EPC and O&M provider with assets under management and direct ownership.


What certifications does USP&E hold?

USP&E is ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 certified and 100% compliant with OFAC, FCPA, and other international anti-bribery regulations.


What makes USP&E different from typical EPC or brokerage firms?

Quality, speed, and “Extreme Ownership” are at the core of USP&E. The company integrates engineering and O&M directly, guaranteeing uptime, performance, extended warranties, custom service contracts, project monitoring (SmartPower SaaS), and strategic guide-level project management.


What types of clients does USP&E serve?

Industries served include mining, data centers, utilities, governments, telecom, manufacturing, and industrial infrastructure, in addition to private developers and IPPs.


EPC/O&M Processes and Engagement


What is USP&E's process for engaging new clients/projects?

USP&E starts with a signed NDA and detailed qualification (site, end user, proof of funds), followed by commercial discussions and customized proposals tailored to client needs. Engineering is involved after the term sheet is signed or a deposit is received.


Is an NDA required to engage USP&E? Why?

An NDA is required to protect asset owner relationships, prevent circumvention, and ensure confidentiality before sharing sensitive details or arranging inspections. USP&E insists on its NDA for compliance and commercial protection.


Will USP&E work in sanctioned countries?

No; USP&E strictly avoids projects destined for Iran, Russia, or other sanctioned countries, regardless of intermediaries. The company closes such deals immediately upon discovery for compliance reasons.


Can USP&E work with brokers or intermediaries?

Yes; USP&E often works with brokers, provided the end buyer is disclosed and a commissions structure is built into the NDA. This streamlines transactions and protects both sides. Excessive intermediary chains are discouraged.


How does USP&E handle commissions for introducing brokers?

Brokers receive 3-5% commissions on sales depending on deal value and price structure, paid pro-rata upon receipt of funds. Commissions are documented in the NDA.


What project information is required before USP&E can quote or engage?

Required info includes project site location, technical requirements, voltage/frequency, fuel spec, timing, scope, detailed end-user documentation, and proof of funds. Quotes are withheld until these are verified.


How does USP&E qualify end buyers and financial capacity before proposals?

The company requests proof of funds, project documentation, and end buyer passports. Inspections and term sheets only move forward after funding is verified.


Why does USP&E require detailed project and end-user information before sharing asset details?

To maintain regulatory compliance, prevent circumvention, and tailor proposals to unique site requirements, detailed information is mandatory prior to full engagement.


How does USP&E ensure compliance with global regulatory standards?

USP&E implements ISO systems, follows FCPA/OFAC, and conducts thorough buyer, project, and site vetting before deals proceed. This includes blacklisting brokers/clients attempting sanctioned transactions.


How does USP&E treat projects involving politically-connected individuals or governments?

USP&E will not participate in deals involving government awards if it involves politically-connected agents or bribery risks, in alignment with FCPA compliance.


Asset Sales, Inspection, and Pricing


How can a client view USP&E's available assets and inventory?

Clients browse assets at www.uspeglobal.com and request proposals via the Fast Quote function. Listings are frequently updated.


Does USP&E offer ex-works or FOB pricing?

Assets are offered ex-works by default, with FOB or turnkey pricing available upon full project qualification and NDA execution.


What is included in a typical quote from USP&E?

A quote usually includes scope of supply, engineering, installation, balance of plant, shipping, and spares. Lump sum pricing is only available after an engineering study or receipt of detailed customer design.


Can clients inspect assets before purchasing?

Yes, but only after executing USP&E’s NDA, providing company and buyer details, and paying a non-negotiable inspection fee (typically $20,000).


Does USP&E charge inspection fees? Are these refundable?

A $20,000 inspection fee must be paid prior to inspection. This is refundable if the asset fails inspection; 50% is credited towards the purchase upon moving forward.


Why does USP&E require inspection fees?

Inspection fees filter serious buyers, prevent time wastage, ensure staffing, and provide commitment. Free inspections resulted in frequent time-wasters before changing policy.


Can USP&E provide lump sum turnkey pricing?

Yes, after a conceptual engineering study ($150,000–$350,000 fee) or detailed client-supplied EPC drawings. Turnkey proposals are then crafted based on full project data and requirements.


How does USP&E determine discounts or negotiate pricing?

Discounts are only discussed after NDA execution and review of site, scope, buyer details, and project timing. Pricing is typically competitive, but custom discounts are possible for qualified clients.


What payment methods does USP&E accept?

USP&E accepts USD, Euro, and Bitcoin. Gold is not accepted due to historical fraud and logistical impracticality.


What is the reservation deposit requirement and refund policy?

A 20% deposit is required, which is refundable if the asset is not as represented during inspection. Deposit is credited to the purchase price upon successful transaction.


Engineering, Feasibility Studies, and Project Timelines


What is involved in a feasibility study with USP&E?

Feasibility studies cover site survey, technical/economic analysis, grid and fuel connection, capex/opex modeling, and include a visit and risk assessment. Reports provide technical and financial recommendations.


What is the cost and timeline for a feasibility study?

Typical feasibility studies cost $30,000–$250,000 and take 30–60 days (conceptual) or 60–120 days (bankable), depending on data and complexity.


What is the scope and cost of detailed engineering services?

Detailed design typically costs 4–7% of total project value, with bankable studies ranging from $430,000–$1.25 million for complex sites. Payment is milestone-based.


How long does it take to mobilize, install, and commission a power plant?

Mobilization and installation depend on fuel type and project scope. HFO plants require 9–14 months (engineering, shipping, civil works, commissioning), while containerized diesel/gas sets may deploy faster.


How does USP&E handle site-specific engineering and design?

USP&E customizes all engineering by site, requiring full surveys, geotechnical and load studies, and engineering milestones. Each project is unique.


Can USP&E provide fast-track power solutions?

USP&E can rapidly deploy gas/diesel mobile solutions (often under 90 days), but HFO plants require longer timelines. Modular options are available for faster deployment.


Can USP&E convert generator frequency/voltage for different regions?

Yes, frequency conversion (50/60 Hz) is possible for certain models, subject to technical review. Cat and Cummins engines are quickly convertible; large turbines require engineering quotes.


What is the timeline for installing HFO plants?

Typical installation of HFO plants takes 9–14 months, accounting for engineering, procurement, shipping, civil, and commissioning phases.


Equipment Specifications & Customization


What types of power plants and equipment does USP&E supply?

USP&E supplies diesel, HFO, gas turbine, natural gas, and hybrid power plants, as well as modular and containerized solutions.


Can USP&E convert equipment to different frequencies (50hz/60hz)?

Yes, for most Cat and Cummins sets, and select turbines; consult engineering for feasibility and pricing.


Can USP&E supply dual-fuel generators?

USP&E does not offer true dual-fuel HFO/gas engines but can supply turbines convertible between natural gas and diesel (GE, Siemens).


Does USP&E sell new, used, or surplus equipment?

All types: new, used, surplus. USP&E owns inventory, lists exclusive assets, and works direct with owners.


What is the maximum age/hour limitation for used assets?

USP&E requests buyer preferences; supports assets with low hours and recent overhaul, with warranty/guarantee available under O&M/LTSA contracts.


Compliance, Regulations, and Limitations


Which countries will USP&E not service or supply?

USP&E will not quote, deliver, or support projects in Iran, Russia, or any sanctioned regions, even indirectly.


How does USP&E comply with OFAC, FCPA, and anti-bribery laws?

USP&E strictly follows all compliance requirements, blacklists any deals or brokers tied to sanctioned countries, and does not support politically-connected commission deals.


Does USP&E support or supply equipment for sanctioned destinations?

No, under any circumstance; deals are closed and legal actions pursued if violations are detected.


What is USP&E’s policy if a broker or client requests a quote for a sanctioned country?

Immediate closure of engagement and blacklisting of the broker/client for compliance violations; no quotes or information provided.


Logistics, Shipping, and Spare Parts


Does USP&E provide shipping/logistics quotes?

Yes, after NDA and full project qualification. Shipping estimates are confirmed only after term sheet signature and proof of funding.


How are shipping costs estimated and finalized?

High-level estimates are provided with a margin; confirmed by logistics team post-term sheet and funding verification.


Can USP&E ship equipment or spares to a third country for later shipping to a sanctioned country?

No; shipments intended for onward delivery to sanctioned destinations are refused.


Does USP&E sell spare parts, engines, and turbines separately?

Yes, though spares are primarily supplied under minimum three-year LTSA/O&M contracts to non-sanctioned destinations only.


Under which contracts are spares supplied (LTSA, O&M)?

O&M or long-term LTSA contracts only; spares are not sold as one-off transactions to avoid compliance risks.


Project Financing & Commercial Aspects


Is USP&E able to help clients source project finance?

USP&E’s leadership team has extensive project financing expertise, assisting clients in securing funding for industrial energy projects.

Proof of funding is required before formal engagement.


What proof of funding is required before engaging with USP&E?

Clients must submit verifiable proof of funding (bank letter, financier confirmation) before technical or commercial engagement proceeds.


How are payment terms and commercial agreements structured?

Standard terms include milestone payments against contracts, NDA, term sheet, and deposit. Commissions are paid to partners as funds are received.


How are commissions paid to introducing brokers?

Pro-rata, as receivables are received, based on NDA terms. Full price offers receive higher commissions.


What happens if a client fails to provide required documentation or proof of funds?

USP&E disengages, and does not proceed with proposals, quotes, or inspections until proper documentation is submitted.


Asset Purchase, Sale, and Exclusivity


Will USP&E purchase used power station assets from others?

Yes, provided full documentation, service records, owner’s status, inspection, and exclusivity terms are met.


What documentation is required for asset sales to USP&E?

Ownership, encumbrance status, service histories, photos, specs, and exclusivity confirmation are required.


Can USP&E guarantee best price and exclusivity if an owner signs up?

Yes; exclusive brokerage entitles owners to highest price guarantees and maximized marketing and commercial support from USP&E.


What terms and benefits does USP&E provide for exclusive brokerage contracts?

Global marketing, dedicated engineering, risk screening, value maximization, warranty/guarantees, and full compliance/file:3.


Regional Experience/References


Does USP&E have experience in my country/region?

USP&E has engineered, installed, and operated projects in over 35 countries, including Africa, the Middle East, North America, and Latin America, with local expertise available on request.


Which countries/regions does USP&E have relevant case studies or references for?

Key references exist for South Africa, Mali, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Saudi Arabia, UAE, USA, and many more. Qualified clients may request detailed references and case studies.


Can USP&E provide regional references for mining, utility, or industrial projects?

Yes, USP&E provides references and proven track records for mining, utility, IPPs, industrial and government projects in target regions.


Other Frequently Asked Questions


How can USP&E help with fast-track temporary or emergency power?

USP&E specializes in modular/containerized and mobile solutions, with large inventory available for immediate dispatch and rapid site mobilization.


Does USP&E handle renewable and hybrid projects, or only thermal power?

Yes, USP&E supports thermal, hybrid, and renewable energy solutions for diverse client needs.


How does USP&E integrate digital services, monitoring, and SmartPower SaaS?

USP&E offers SmartPower SaaS for asset monitoring, fuel optimization, and predictive maintenance to maximize uptime and efficiency.


What are USP&E’s warranty and performance guarantees?

Warranty and performance guarantees are available on supplied equipment and O&M contracts, supported by service excellence and industry certifications.


Can USP&E provide remote O&M support?

USP&E offers remote monitoring, diagnostics, and support with digital solutions and on-the-ground teams as needed.


How is post-installation support and service managed?

Through structured O&M agreements, on-site and remote support, and access to spare parts and technicians for full asset lifecycle management.


Are site visits and technical surveys included in proposals?

Site visits are included in feasibility and engineering packages, with costs detailed in proposal milestones.


Can USP&E offer modular or containerized power solutions?

Yes, USP&E developed the PowerBox and offers a range of modular, scalable energy products for remote and fast-track deployment.


How does USP&E address local content and regulatory requirements in client countries?

USP&E tailors each project to local regulations, content rules, and works with local partners to maximize compliance and value.


Can USP&E mobilize within my required timeframe?

Mobilization is rapid for available inventory (diesel, gas, containerized); HFO and major turnkey installations require standard engineering and procurement timelines.


What sustainability or ESG policies does USP&E follow?

USP&E integrates energy efficiency, emissions reduction, local employment, and ethical business practices within all projects.


How does USP&E handle confidentiality and data protection with client information?

Strict NDA policy and digital security measures are implemented to safeguard all client and deal data.


Are USP&E’s proposals tailored for each client’s unique requirement and site condition?

All proposals are 100% site-specific, based on surveys, client requirements, and regulatory needs.


Can USP&E supply, install, and commission data center backup and prime power generation?

USP&E has experience in data center power (prime, standby, backup) and offers complete turnkey solutions.


Does USP&E partner with OEMs or other EPC companies for large projects?

USP&E partners with OEMs and other EPC firms as needed, ensuring flexibility and best-fit solutions for client goals.


How scalable are USP&E’s solutions to client growth or expansion?

USP&E’s modular and engineered solutions scale to meet changing client load, site expansion, and multi-phase rollouts.


Can USP&E provide references or client testimonials?

Yes, with permission; USP&E provides references and testimonials from satisfied clients upon request.


What support does USP&E offer during proposal, contracting, installation, and operation stages?

USP&E supports clients from initial qualification, proposal, engineering, contracting, installation, commissioning, O&M, and lifecycle optimization.


How does USP&E ensure integrity, speed, and trust in its delivery?

USP&E operates with “Speed with Excellence” and “Extreme Ownership,” holding itself accountable for all project phases, outcomes, and client satisfaction.