Wärtsilä to power Rapid City grid

Wärtsilä will supply six dual-fuel 50DF engines, delivering a total of 99.6 MW, for a new power plant in Rapid City, South Dakota, operated by Black Hills Energy. Designed for flexible fuel use, the engines will ensure steady power even when severe weather affects natural gas supplies.

Scheduled for installation and commercial operation by Q3/Q4 2026, the project leverages Wärtsilä’s experience in reciprocating internal combustion engines to support grid reliability and rapid response to demand fluctuations.

“Wärtsilä’s reputation in the reciprocating technology market made them the right choice for Black Hills Energy. Notably, these RICE units will enhance resiliency of the electric system and the ability to quickly respond to fluctuations in demand needs for our customers,” said Derek Silbaugh, Director of Generation Engineering and Environmental Services at Black Hills Energy.

“We strive for responding to our customer’s needs by providing them with timely solutions for reliable and flexible power,” comments Jon Rodriguez, Energy Business Director, Engine Power Plants, North America at Wärtsilä Energy.

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