Four states of “new enough” on this site
- Factory-new — built to order or fresh OEM release on the book.
- New-surplus / low-hour OEM-class — never or lightly operated, verified title, still “new” in commercial language when documentation supports it.
- Used / refurbished — operational history, life-extension or overhaul path, EPC wrap essential.
Decision matrix
| Criterion | Factory-new | New-surplus | Used / refurbished | FX-45 (from 2028) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical schedule fit | Longer OEM queues | Often nearer-term if config matches | Can be fast if verified | Slots from 2028 |
| Frequency risk | Orderable 50/60 Hz when queue allows | Must verify as-built Hz | Must verify as-built Hz | Platform framed 50 and 60 Hz |
| Documentation burden | OEM pack + FAT | Title + history + FAT/inspection | Heavy diligence + refurb plan | Programme planning |
| CapEx posture | Highest capital, cleanest paper | Often lower than factory-new | Lowest entry; lifecycle cost honesty required | Not published as CapEx tables |
| Best when | Lender/OEM lock-in, long COD | COD soon, match found in stock | Bridge or budget-constrained with EPC | Phased hyperscale after 2028 |
How to walk the matrix without broker chaos
- Freeze duty, MW class, fuel, and 50 or 60 Hz — frequency guide.
- Map COD against OEM queue reality — lead times.
- Filter natural gas turbines; keep diesel/dual-fuel options visible for contingency on diesel generators and dual-fuel generators.
- Demand FAT/inspection posture — FAT narrative.
Worked scenarios (illustrative, not quotes)
Scenario A — Mine needs 50 Hz in nine months. Screen new-surplus and used matching 50 Hz; wrap EPC; keep OEM factory-new as backup if diligence fails.
Scenario B — Utility wants clean factory-new 60 Hz with long COD. OEM book plus FAT; inventory as contingency for construction power.
Anti-fraud filters every matrix scorecard needs
- Refuse deposits without verified ownership pathways and USP&E or equivalent lifecycle accountability.
- Reject listings that refuse frequency, hours, or documentation under NDA.
- Confirm FCPA/OFAC destination compliance before funds move.
- Use the USD 20,000 inspection participation fee framework when inspections are warranted.
Continue with EPC & O&M, watch videos, and request brochures after inventory screening. Sister inventory+stations discovery remains on newgasturbines.com; keep equipment specification language on newgasturbinegenerators.com.
Handover scorecard after the matrix choice
Schedule a joint review with engineering and commercial leads after SEARCH INVENTORY shortlists are ready. Bring the matrix scores, frequency freeze, and COD. Phone +27 10 822 2324 · info@uspeglobal.com · contact.
Common questions
Is new-surplus “used”?
Commercially it is often treated as OEM-class new when hours and title support that language. Diligence still applies.
Should I wait for FX-45 instead of buying now?
Only if COD aligns with slots from 2028. Earlier megawatts need live inventory or OEM packages.
Next steps
- Score your project against the matrix rows above.
- SEARCH INVENTORY and open GT category filters.
Why owners choose USP&E
USP&E is a full-service engineering, EPC and O&M company, not a broker. One team designs, builds and runs your plant, so nothing falls between contracts.
Racing a go-live date?
Tell us your load, fuel and timeline. A USP&E engineer will come back with options for New Gas Turbine Generators projects, not a sales pitch.