Giving Power a Second Life
At Generators For Export, we believe in more than just supplying reliable used generators, we believe in sustainable power solutions that minimise waste, reduce emissions, and extend the lifecycle of high-quality equipment. Almost every generator that enters our Pershore yard goes through a meticulous inspection process, preparing it for a second life of dependable performance.
This approach isn’t just practical, it’s crucial. With the environmental cost of manufacturing new generators continuing to rise, repurposing presents a smarter, greener way forward for the power generation industry.
What Is Generator Repurposing?
Repurposing involves carefully inspecting, repairing, and upgrading used generators to meet or exceed their original performance specifications. It’s far more than a cosmetic refurb. At Generators For Export, our expert technicians carry out:
- Full engine servicing and overhauls
- Component replacements where needed (e.g., bearings, seals, injectors)
- Electrical testing and load bank testing
- Cleaning, painting, and soundproofing upgrades
- New control panels or modernisation of existing systems
Whether it's a 40kVA unit or a large-scale 1000kVA generator, our goal is always the same: restore high-quality used generators to peak performance.
Why Repurposing Matters for the Environment
1. Reducing Industrial Waste
The generator manufacturing process is resource intensive. From mining raw materials to casting metal components and assembling engines, each new unit leaves a significant environmental footprint. By repurposing existing generators, we avoid the need for:
- Extracting new metals like copper, steel, and aluminium
- Producing new engine blocks and alternators
- Shipping parts across global supply chains
Every repurposed generator represents tonnes of raw material and manufacturing emissions saved.
2. Cutting Carbon Emissions
Manufacturing new diesel generators can produce hundreds of kilograms of CO₂, depending on size and materials. By extending the lifespan of existing units, repurposing significantly cuts lifecycle emissions, especially important in today’s push toward carbon neutrality.
A repurposed generator also allows businesses to deploy reliable standby or prime power without the carbon cost of new production. It’s a practical step in reducing Scope 3 emissions, which many industries are now expected to report and manage.
3. Preserving Engine Value
Brands like Cummins, Perkins, and Volvo Penta build engines to last, often running tens of thousands of hours if maintained properly. When we repurpose a generator, we’re not just salvaging components, we’re unlocking the untapped potential of engineering excellence.
Browse our range of Cummins powered generators to see the models we have in stock.
Reuse Without Compromise
One common misconception is that recycled generators are less reliable than new ones. In fact, many of our units are tested and restored to performance levels equal to, and sometimes better than, when they first left the factory.
Our rigorous inspection process ensures that only viable machines are reconditioned, and every generator is load tested before sale. That’s how we confidently supply units to businesses across industries, from agriculture and construction to data centres and export customers overseas.
How We Do It at GFE
At Generators For Export, repurposing isn’t just a service, it’s built into our business model. We regularly acquire ex-hire fleet generators, trade-ins, ex-standby and decommissioned units from across the UK. Once they arrive at our facility, the work begins:
- Initial assessment: We inspect for signs of wear, oil leaks, electrical issues, and physical damage.
- Servicing: Engines are flushed, filters replaced, fluids topped up or changed, and components repaired or swapped.
- Upgrades: Where possible, we install modern control systems, offer custom enclosures, or convert between single-phase and three-phase output.
- Testing: Every unit is load bank tested to ensure it performs at its rated capacity.
View some our most recent used diesel generator stock.
Supporting the Circular Economy
Repurposing fits perfectly into the principles of the circular economy, where products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible.
Unlike the traditional “take, make, dispose” model, the circular systems seek to reduce waste at every stage. By selling repurposed generators, we enable businesses to access affordable, reliable power without contributing to avoidable waste.
This is especially important for clients operating in remote or export markets, where the logistical cost of shipping new generators is high, both financially and environmentally.
Exporting Repurposed Generators
We regularly export repurposed generators worldwide. Whether it's a bulk container of 60kVA to 100kVA units for Africa or a custom-spec high-capacity generator for Asia, our used generator exports give equipment a new lease of life in environments where demand for robust, affordable power is rising.
Looking to buy in bulk? Get in touch to talk to us about container load deals and export-friendly stock.
GFE, Supporting You Through Sustainability
Sustainability isn’t just about wind farms and solar panels, it’s about using what we already have, wisely. At Generators For Export, repurposing is our way of delivering high-quality power while reducing environmental impact.
When you choose a repurposed generator, you're not just saving money, you're:
- Reducing emissions
- Extending the life of valuable equipment
- Supporting the circular economy
- Keeping power generation affordable and sustainable
Let’s keep powering progress, the smarter way.
Ready to make a sustainable power choice? Browse our full used diesel generators or get in touch for expert advice on your next generator solution.