Energy Extraction, Recapture, Generation, & Distribution Applications

Application Overview

Energy extraction, recapture, generation, and distribution processes demand precise monitoring and control to optimize efficiency, ensure safety, and maintain regulatory compliance. Whether harnessing landfill gas for energy, upgrading biogas to renewable natural gas, capturing heat from wastewater, or managing large-scale power generation, instrumentation plays a critical role in process performance. Advanced flow meters, gas analyzers, pressure sensors, and SCADA systems enable real-time data collection, ensuring that operators can respond to fluctuating conditions and maximize resource utilization. Control systems must also integrate with emissions monitoring equipment to verify compliance with environmental standards while optimizing combustion and refining processes.

In these applications, accurate measurement of gas composition, pressure, and flow is essential for reliable system operation. Landfill gas and wastewater energy recovery systems require robust gas analyzers to detect methane, CO₂, and trace contaminants that impact engine performance and pipeline quality. Renewable natural gas upgrading facilities rely on continuous monitoring of H₂S, moisture, and siloxanes to protect equipment and meet pipeline specifications. In traditional power generation and distribution, precision instrumentation ensures stable fuel delivery, steam cycle efficiency, and grid reliability. Effective process control solutions not only enhance operational performance but also support sustainability initiatives by improving energy conversion efficiency and reducing waste.

How Our Products Support Your Industry

Clipper Controls provides advanced instrumentation, control solutions, and analytical technologies to optimize energy extraction, recapture, generation, and distribution processes. Our portfolio includes precision flow meters, gas analyzers, pressure sensors, level measurement devices, and SCADA integration tools, all essential for maintaining efficiency, safety, and compliance in energy operations. Whether managing landfill gas-to-energy (LFG) projects, upgrading biogas to renewable natural gas (RNG), or optimizing wastewater energy recapture, we offer tailored solutions that enhance process reliability and performance.

Beyond equipment, Clipper Controls supports the industry with expert consultation, system design assistance, and technical support to ensure seamless integration of monitoring and control systems. Our solutions help operators maintain regulatory compliance by providing real-time emissions monitoring and gas quality verification. By improving process visibility and control, we enable energy producers to maximize resource utilization, reduce operational risks, and achieve sustainability goals. Whether in traditional power generation, pipeline distribution, or emerging renewable energy sectors, Clipper Controls delivers the tools and expertise needed for efficient and reliable energy management.

Key Applications and Solutions

Flow Measurement & Control

Accurate and reliable flow measurement and control are critical in the energy sector, ensuring operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and process optimization. From extraction and recapture to generation and distribution, precise flow measurement is essential for monitoring fuel, steam, water, air, and gas flows. Proper instrumentation supports energy producers in maximizing efficiency, reducing waste, and maintaining safety standards across various applications.

Applications of Flow Measurement & Control in Energy Extraction, Recapture, Generation, and Distribution Applications

Flow measurement and control technologies are essential for managing fluid movement in energy processes. Depending on the medium—liquid, gas, or steam—different flow measurement methods are used to ensure accurate monitoring, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.

Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFG) & Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Production:

Flow meters measure landfill gas composition and volume to optimize gas collection and ensure efficient conversion into usable energy.
Thermal mass flow meters help detect leaks and inefficiencies in methane extraction systems.
Ultrasonic and Coriolis flow meters track biogas flow rates for processing into RNG and injection into pipeline systems.

Wastewater Energy Recapture & Cogeneration Systems:

Flow control valves regulate steam and hot water distribution in wastewater treatment plant cogeneration systems.
Magnetic flow meters measure wastewater and sludge movement, ensuring efficient energy recapture from anaerobic digestion.
Vortex flow meters help monitor steam flow in heat recovery processes.

Hydroelectric & Geothermal Power Generation:

Electromagnetic and ultrasonic flow meters measure water flow rates through turbines to optimize energy production.
Steam flow meters regulate geothermal energy production by monitoring vapor movement from subterranean reservoirs.
Differential pressure flow meters help maintain efficiency in superheated steam distribution.

Oil & Gas Refining and Distribution:

Coriolis and positive displacement meters measure fuel flow in refineries and ensure proper blending of petroleum products.
Ultrasonic and turbine flow meters monitor pipeline gas and liquid flows, detecting leaks and ensuring precise custody transfer.
Variable area flow meters provide reliable flow measurement for hydraulic fracturing and crude oil transport.

Solar Thermal & Hydrogen Production:

Flow meters track thermal fluid movement in concentrated solar power plants, optimizing heat exchange efficiency.
Mass flow controllers regulate hydrogen production via electrolysis, ensuring proper gas separation and storage.
Ultrasonic and thermal flow meters monitor hydrogen distribution pipelines for safe and efficient transport.

Key Purchasing Considerations

Selecting the right flow measurement and control devices for energy applications requires consideration of process conditions, media characteristics, accuracy requirements, and industry standards. The following factors should guide decision-making:

Media Type & Compatibility:

Ensure flow meters are suitable for gas (methane, hydrogen, steam) or liquid (crude oil, water, thermal fluids).
Consider corrosion resistance in aggressive environments, such as landfill gas extraction or chemical processing.

Accuracy & Repeatability:

High-precision instruments like Coriolis and ultrasonic meters are crucial for custody transfer and fiscal metering.
For applications with fluctuating flows, such as renewable energy systems, look for adaptive control mechanisms.

Operating Environment & Installation Constraints:

Consider temperature, pressure, and viscosity variations when selecting flow meters.
Space limitations may require compact or inline meters instead of large, intrusive devices.

Compliance & Regulatory Requirements:

Select meters certified for industry standards such as API (oil & gas), AGA (natural gas), and ISO 5167 (differential pressure flow meters).
Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including emissions monitoring and carbon accounting.

Communication & Integration:

Choose smart flow meters with digital protocols (HART, Modbus, Profibus) for seamless integration into SCADA and PLC systems.
Wireless and remote monitoring capabilities enhance real-time data collection and system diagnostics.

Maintenance & Lifecycle Costs:

Non-intrusive technologies like ultrasonic flow meters reduce maintenance needs by eliminating moving parts.
Devices with self-diagnostic and predictive maintenance features minimize downtime and optimize operational efficiency

Pressure Monitoring & Regulation

Precise pressure monitoring and regulation are essential for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of energy systems. From extraction and recapture to generation and distribution, maintaining optimal pressure levels prevents equipment damage, improves operational efficiency, and enhances regulatory compliance. Pressure instrumentation plays a critical role in managing fuel flow, steam distribution, gas compression, and fluid transport across a variety of energy applications.

Applications of Pressure Monitoring & Regulation in Energy Extraction, Recapture, Generation, and Distribution Applications

Pressure measurement and control technologies are crucial for energy production and distribution, helping to optimize process efficiency and ensure system integrity. Depending on the medium—gas, liquid, or steam—different pressure sensors and regulators are used to maintain safe operating conditions.

Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFG) & Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Production:

Pressure transmitters monitor gas well extraction pressures, optimizing methane collection efficiency.
Differential pressure (DP) sensors track pressure variations in gas cleaning and upgrading systems, ensuring proper filtration and separation of contaminants.
Pressure regulators maintain consistent pressure in RNG injection into natural gas pipelines, preventing fluctuations that could impact grid stability.

Wastewater Energy Recapture & Cogeneration Systems:

Pressure sensors in anaerobic digesters regulate biogas collection to prevent over-pressurization and ensure efficient gas storage.
Steam pressure transmitters optimize energy recovery in cogeneration plants by ensuring proper steam turbine operation.
Pump pressure monitoring helps maintain consistent flow rates in wastewater heat recovery systems.

Hydroelectric & Geothermal Power Generation:

High-accuracy pressure sensors monitor water column pressures in hydroelectric dams, optimizing turbine efficiency.
Steam pressure monitoring in geothermal plants ensures safe and efficient extraction from underground reservoirs.
Subsurface pressure transmitters provide real-time data on reservoir performance and geothermal fluid dynamics.

Oil & Gas Refining and Distribution:

Pressure regulators maintain optimal levels in gas pipelines, preventing pressure drops that could disrupt downstream operations.
Differential pressure meters ensure proper filtration efficiency in refineries, protecting downstream processing equipment.
High-pressure transmitters monitor wellhead pressure in drilling and fracking applications, preventing blowouts and optimizing extraction.

Solar Thermal & Hydrogen Production:

Pressure sensors track heat transfer fluid pressures in concentrated solar power plants, maintaining thermal efficiency.
Hydrogen electrolysis systems rely on precise pressure regulation to ensure safe gas separation and storage.
Hydrogen pipeline pressure monitoring prevents leaks and ensures safe distribution for industrial and transportation applications.

Key Purchasing Considerations

Choosing the right pressure monitoring and regulation devices for energy applications requires careful consideration of process requirements, safety standards, and operational constraints. The following factors should guide decision-making:

Pressure Range & Accuracy:

Select sensors that can handle the expected pressure range, from low-pressure gas monitoring to high-pressure steam applications.
High-precision pressure transmitters are essential for critical operations such as custody transfer, gas compression, and turbine regulation.

Environmental & Process Conditions:

Consider materials resistant to harsh environments, such as stainless steel or corrosion-resistant coatings for landfill gas and hydrogen applications.
Ensure compatibility with high-temperature and high-moisture conditions in geothermal and steam-based energy systems.

Compliance & Safety Standards:

Ensure pressure instruments meet regulatory requirements, such as ASME, ANSI, API, and OSHA safety standards.
Explosion-proof and intrinsically safe designs may be required for hazardous environments, such as hydrogen production and oil refining.

Communication & Integration:

Smart pressure transmitters with digital protocols (HART, Modbus, Profibus) enhance integration with SCADA and DCS systems.
Wireless pressure monitoring solutions provide remote access and real-time alerts for critical systems.

Maintenance & Long-Term Reliability:

Choose devices with self-diagnostic capabilities for predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and operational disruptions.
Non-contact and solid-state pressure sensors minimize wear and extend service life in demanding energy applications.

Temperature Sensing & Control

Effective temperature sensing and control are critical in energy applications to ensure system efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance. From extraction and recapture to generation and distribution, temperature fluctuations can impact fuel combustion, process efficiency, and equipment longevity. Proper instrumentation helps maintain optimal thermal conditions, preventing overheating, thermal losses, and equipment degradation.

Applications of Temperature Sensing & Control in Energy Extraction, Recapture, Generation, and Distribution Applications

Temperature monitoring and regulation play a vital role in managing energy production processes, ensuring safe operation, and optimizing efficiency. Various temperature measurement technologies, including thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), and infrared sensors, are used to maintain precise thermal conditions in different energy sectors.

Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFG) & Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Production:

Temperature sensors monitor landfill gas well temperatures, ensuring optimal methane extraction conditions.
Infrared and RTD sensors control heat levels in gas upgrading systems to maximize the removal of contaminants like CO₂ and H₂S.
Thermal flow controllers regulate temperatures in pipeline injection systems, preventing condensation and energy loss.

Wastewater Energy Recapture & Cogeneration Systems:

Temperature transmitters measure anaerobic digester heat levels to optimize biogas production and microbial activity.
Steam temperature monitoring ensures efficient energy recovery in wastewater cogeneration plants.
Heat exchanger sensors regulate wastewater temperature in heat recapture systems to maximize efficiency.

Hydroelectric & Geothermal Power Generation:

RTD and thermocouple sensors measure water and steam temperatures in hydroelectric and geothermal plants to optimize turbine performance.
Subsurface geothermal sensors track reservoir heat levels, ensuring efficient and sustainable energy extraction.
High-temperature thermocouples monitor steam pipelines, ensuring proper distribution and preventing thermal stress.

Oil & Gas Refining and Distribution:

Temperature sensors in crude oil refining control heat levels during distillation and cracking processes.
Thermal monitoring of natural gas pipelines prevents hydrate formation and ensures safe transport.
Heat tracing systems use temperature sensors to prevent freezing in pipelines and ensure consistent flow.

Solar Thermal & Hydrogen Production:

Infrared and RTD sensors monitor solar collector temperatures, optimizing heat transfer efficiency in concentrated solar power (CSP) plants.
Electrolysis systems use temperature sensors to regulate hydrogen production, preventing overheating of electrodes and membranes.
Thermal sensors in hydrogen storage and distribution systems detect temperature fluctuations that could impact safety and efficiency.

Key Purchasing Considerations

Selecting the right temperature sensing and control devices for energy applications requires evaluating environmental conditions, process requirements, and integration capabilities. The following factors should guide decision-making:

Temperature Range & Accuracy:

Choose sensors with appropriate temperature range capabilities for applications from cryogenic LNG storage to high-temperature geothermal steam monitoring.
High-accuracy RTDs are preferred for precise thermal control in critical energy processes.

Sensor Type & Response Time:

Thermocouples provide fast response times, making them ideal for dynamic temperature fluctuations in combustion and turbine applications.
Infrared temperature sensors enable non-contact measurement for high-temperature processes and hazardous environments.
RTDs offer long-term stability for consistent thermal monitoring in pipeline and refinery applications.

Environmental Durability & Protection:

Consider corrosion-resistant and explosion-proof sensor housings for use in harsh environments such as refineries and geothermal fields.
High-pressure thermowells protect temperature probes in steam and high-temperature fluid applications.

Compliance & Safety Standards:

Ensure sensors meet industry standards such as ASTM, IEC, and ANSI for temperature measurement accuracy and reliability.
Compliance with hazardous location certifications (ATEX, CSA, or UL) is essential for high-risk energy environments.

Communication & Integration:

Digital temperature transmitters with HART, Modbus, or Profibus compatibility facilitate integration with SCADA and control systems.
Wireless temperature sensors provide real-time monitoring for remote energy applications.

Maintenance & Calibration:

Select self-calibrating temperature sensors to minimize downtime and improve process efficiency.
Devices with predictive maintenance capabilities enhance system reliability by detecting sensor drift or failure before issues arise.

Level Detection & Management

Accurate level detection and management are critical in energy applications to ensure process efficiency, prevent overflows, and maintain system reliability. From extraction and recapture to generation and distribution, precise level monitoring helps optimize fuel storage, manage fluid inventories, and ensure safe operation of tanks, reservoirs, and pipelines. Reliable instrumentation prevents costly downtime, improves process control, and enhances environmental compliance by mitigating leaks and spills.

Applications of Level Detection & Management in Energy Extraction, Recapture, Generation, and Distribution Applications

Level measurement technologies—including radar, ultrasonic, capacitive, and guided wave radar sensors—are widely used in energy production and distribution to ensure precise liquid, gas, and solid material level monitoring.

Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFG) & Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Production:

Radar level sensors monitor condensate levels in gas collection wells to prevent liquid accumulation that could restrict gas flow.
Ultrasonic level transmitters track levels in digester tanks and biogas storage units, ensuring optimal gas production.
Capacitive level sensors detect foam buildup in gas scrubbing units, optimizing chemical dosing for gas purification.

Wastewater Energy Recapture & Cogeneration Systems:

Float switches and radar sensors monitor liquid levels in anaerobic digesters, optimizing biogas yield and preventing overflow.
Guided wave radar level transmitters control hot water and steam levels in cogeneration boilers, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
Hydrostatic level sensors manage sludge levels in energy recovery processes, optimizing solid-liquid separation.

Hydroelectric & Geothermal Power Generation:

Ultrasonic level sensors track reservoir water levels to ensure optimal hydroelectric turbine operation.
High-temperature guided wave radar sensors monitor geothermal brine levels in flash steam plants to optimize power generation.
Subsurface level detection systems monitor geothermal resource depletion, ensuring sustainable energy extraction.

Oil & Gas Refining and Distribution:

Radar level gauges monitor crude oil and refined fuel storage tanks for inventory management and leak prevention.
Differential pressure level sensors measure liquid levels in distillation columns, ensuring optimal refining efficiency.
Non-contact ultrasonic level sensors detect levels in pressurized natural gas storage tanks, preventing overfilling and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Solar Thermal & Hydrogen Production:

Capacitive level sensors monitor thermal fluid levels in concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, ensuring efficient heat transfer.
Hydrogen electrolysis systems use ultrasonic and guided wave radar sensors to track water levels for consistent hydrogen production.
Cryogenic level sensors provide accurate measurements in liquid hydrogen storage tanks, ensuring safety and efficiency in fuel cell applications.

Key Purchasing Considerations

Selecting the right level detection and management solutions requires evaluating process conditions, environmental challenges, and integration requirements. The following factors should guide decision-making:

Measurement Technology Selection:

Radar sensors offer reliable performance in challenging environments, such as steam-filled geothermal plants and high-pressure oil refineries.
Ultrasonic sensors provide non-contact level measurement, ideal for hazardous and corrosive liquid storage applications.
Float switches and hydrostatic sensors are cost-effective solutions for basic level monitoring in wastewater and cogeneration applications.

Media Type & Environmental Conditions:

Consider compatibility with liquids, slurries, and gases when selecting level sensors.
High-temperature and pressure-resistant sensors are essential for geothermal, steam, and refinery applications.
Corrosion-resistant materials are required for aggressive chemical environments, such as landfill gas and hydrogen production.

Accuracy & Reliability:

Choose sensors with high accuracy for critical applications such as custody transfer and pipeline storage management.
Look for self-cleaning or maintenance-free sensors to ensure long-term reliability in dirty or high-viscosity applications.

Compliance & Safety Standards:

Ensure level sensors meet industry standards such as API, ASME, and IEC for energy and industrial applications.
Explosion-proof and intrinsically safe designs may be required for hazardous locations, such as oil refineries and hydrogen storage facilities.

Communication & System Integration:

Smart level sensors with HART, Modbus, and Profibus compatibility enable seamless integration into SCADA and industrial automation systems.
Wireless level sensors provide remote monitoring capabilities, improving real-time process control and operational efficiency.

Maintenance & Lifecycle Cost:

Opt for sensors with predictive maintenance features to reduce downtime and operational disruptions.
Consider total cost of ownership, including installation, calibration, and long-term reliability, when selecting level management solutions.

Gas & Flame Detection for Safety Compliance

Gas and flame detection is essential in the energy sector to protect personnel, assets, and the environment from hazardous leaks, fires, and explosions. Effective detection systems ensure compliance with safety regulations while preventing catastrophic failures in extraction, recapture, generation, and distribution processes. Advanced sensors, alarms, and automated shutdown systems help mitigate risks by providing early warning of combustible gases, toxic vapors, and fire hazards.

Applications of Gas & Flame Detection in Energy Extraction, Recapture, Generation, and Distribution Applications

Energy facilities require specialized detection systems to monitor flammable and toxic gas levels, detect combustion risks, and ensure safe operations. Various sensor technologies, including infrared (IR), electrochemical, catalytic, and ultraviolet (UV) flame detectors, are used to enhance workplace safety.

Landfill Gas-to-Energy (LFG) & Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Production:

Methane (CH₄) sensors detect leaks in gas collection and processing systems, preventing fire and explosion risks.
Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) gas detectors protect workers from toxic exposure in landfill gas upgrading facilities.
Infrared flame detectors provide early fire detection in biogas storage and flaring systems.

Wastewater Energy Recapture & Cogeneration Systems:

Gas sensors monitor biogas storage tanks for methane, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and hydrogen sulfide buildup.
Catalytic bead sensors detect leaks in anaerobic digesters, preventing ignition hazards in confined spaces.
UV/IR flame detectors ensure fire suppression systems are activated in cogeneration plants using waste heat recovery.

Hydroelectric & Geothermal Power Generation:

Hydrogen gas sensors prevent accumulation in generator cooling systems, reducing the risk of explosions.
Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) detectors monitor geothermal emissions to ensure compliance with air quality regulations.
Multi-spectrum flame detectors provide rapid fire detection in steam turbine enclosures and high-temperature environments.

Oil & Gas Refining and Distribution:

Fixed and portable gas detectors monitor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hydrocarbon vapors in refineries.
Infrared gas detectors provide real-time monitoring of pipeline leaks, reducing environmental and safety risks.
Explosion-proof flame detectors are deployed in hazardous locations to detect fires caused by fuel leaks or vapor ignition.

Solar Thermal & Hydrogen Production:

Hydrogen (H₂) gas sensors detect leaks in electrolyzers, preventing the risk of flash fires and explosions.
Oxygen (O₂) deficiency sensors ensure worker safety in enclosed spaces where hydrogen production occurs.
Optical flame detectors safeguard concentrated solar power (CSP) plants from fire risks associated with high-temperature operations.

Key Purchasing Considerations

Selecting the right gas and flame detection solutions requires careful assessment of process risks, environmental conditions, and regulatory requirements. The following factors should guide decision-making:

Gas Type & Sensor Selection:

Infrared gas detectors are ideal for hydrocarbon detection, offering fast response times and low maintenance.
Electrochemical sensors provide accurate detection of toxic gases like hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and carbon monoxide (CO).
Catalytic bead sensors are effective for combustible gas monitoring in landfill gas and biogas applications.

Flame Detection Technology:

Ultraviolet (UV) flame detectors are suitable for detecting fires caused by hydrogen and other non-carbon-based fuels.
Infrared (IR) flame detectors work well in outdoor environments and high-temperature industrial areas.
Multi-spectrum flame detection systems enhance reliability by minimizing false alarms from welding, sunlight, or hot surfaces.

Environmental Durability & Hazardous Locations:

Explosion-proof and intrinsically safe gas detectors are essential for hazardous areas such as refineries and hydrogen storage facilities.
Corrosion-resistant sensors protect against aggressive chemical environments in geothermal and landfill applications.
Weatherproof enclosures are necessary for outdoor installations in pipelines, landfill gas extraction systems, and offshore platforms.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety Standards:

Ensure detectors comply with safety regulations such as OSHA, NFPA, IECEx, ATEX, and ANSI standards.
Calibration and maintenance requirements should align with industry best practices for continuous safety assurance.
Compliance with EPA and air quality regulations is crucial for facilities handling methane, CO₂, and sulfur-based emissions.

Communication & Integration with Control Systems:

Smart gas detectors with digital outputs (HART, Modbus, BACnet) enable seamless integration into SCADA and PLC systems.
Wireless connectivity provides real-time monitoring and remote alert capabilities for large-scale energy facilities.
Automated emergency shutdown systems should be integrated with gas and flame detection networks for rapid response to hazards.

Maintenance & Calibration:

Choose self-diagnostic gas detectors with predictive maintenance features to minimize false alarms and ensure reliability.
Calibration-free or long-life sensors reduce operational costs in remote or hard-to-reach installations.
Redundant sensor systems provide additional safety layers for critical energy applications.

Industry Standards & Regulatory Compliance

The energy industry—including power generation, cogeneration, district energy systems, and thermal utilities—must adhere to an extensive network of regulations, codes, and performance standards to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations. Regulatory oversight spans air and water quality, emissions control, equipment safety, and energy efficiency, with requirements enforced by agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and Department of Energy (DOE). In addition, facilities must comply with technical standards from organizations such as ASME, NFPA, ISO, and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

To remain compliant, energy producers must continuously monitor and control critical process variables including steam pressure, fuel gas flow, stack emissions, water chemistry, and combustion efficiency. Accurate, real-time instrumentation is essential for meeting permit conditions, performing regulatory reporting, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring worker and community safety. These systems often interface with SCADA, Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), and other digital platforms to automate compliance and support performance optimization.

Key Regulatory Frameworks and Standards for Energy Facilities

Energy facilities are required to comply with specific regulations based on fuel type, generation method, and facility size. Core standards include:

EPA Clean Air Act (CAA) – Emissions Monitoring and Control

Requires facilities to control and monitor emissions of CO₂, NOx, SO₂, particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) must be used in fossil fuel power plants and large combustion units to report real-time emissions data.
Title V operating permits mandate emissions tracking, performance standards for control technologies, and documentation for EPA and state agencies.

Clean Water Act (CWA) – NPDES and Effluent Guidelines

Power plants and combined heat and power (CHP) systems with water discharges must obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.
Monitoring of discharge temperature, pH, total suspended solids (TSS), metals, and chemical additives is required.
Closed-cycle cooling water systems and blowdown monitoring help ensure compliance with thermal pollution and chemical discharge limits.

OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) – 29 CFR 1910.119

Applies to facilities handling flammable or toxic chemicals such as natural gas, ammonia, or hydrogen.
Requires implementation of automated safety shutdown systems, gas leak detection, pressure relief systems, and emergency response procedures.
Instrumentation used in safety-critical processes must be rated for hazardous environments and tested regularly for reliability.

ASME, NFPA, and IEEE Standards for System Design & Safety

ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC): Governs design, operation, and inspection of boilers, heat exchangers, and pressure vessels.
NFPA 85 & NFPA 70E: Cover burner management systems, combustion safety, and electrical safety programs.
IEEE 1547 & 519: Apply to distributed energy integration and power quality management in grid-connected systems.

Energy Efficiency, Carbon Reporting & Future Regulations

In addition to traditional environmental and safety mandates, energy facilities must address evolving standards related to sustainability and decarbonization:

EPA Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP):

Requires large facilities to monitor and report GHG emissions, including CO₂ from combustion and CH₄ from fuel handling.
Emissions monitoring instruments must be EPA-certified and support electronic data submission.

ISO 50001 Energy Management Systems:

Promotes continuous energy performance improvement through process optimization and system-level monitoring.
Requires integration of real-time flow, power, temperature, and efficiency data into energy dashboards.

Hydrogen, Battery, and Renewable Integration:

As new energy technologies emerge, regulations around hydrogen safety, battery storage fire risk, and power conversion are expanding.
Instrumentation used in these systems must be compliant with IECEx, ATEX, and emerging UL safety standards.

Benefits of Working With Clipper Controls

Clipper Controls provides energy facilities with precision instrumentation and control solutions that support safe, efficient, and compliant operations. Our expertise spans flow, pressure, temperature, emissions monitoring, and SCADA integration—helping teams optimize performance while meeting regulatory demands.

We offer field-proven products for power generation, district energy, and cogeneration systems, backed by deep technical knowledge and responsive support. Whether you're modernizing plant infrastructure or improving data accuracy, Clipper Controls delivers tailored solutions that enhance reliability, reduce downtime, and streamline compliance reporting.

Case Studies & Success Stories

Discover how Clipper Controls has helped energy producers improve system efficiency, enhance emissions monitoring, and meet regulatory compliance through innovative instrumentation solutions.

Click here to read our energy case studies.

A Clipper Controls employee in a branded company hardhat in a control room testing equipment with a multimeter

Real Results, Real Impact:

Thanks to Clipper Controls, our wastewater treatment plant improved efficiency & compliance with top-tier flow meters. Reliable solutions, great support! We recommend Clipper Controls to all our partner companies.

~ John Smith, Controls Engineer @ ABC Company

Clipper Controls helped our city upgrade water monitoring systems, ensuring accuracy & compliance. Reliable solutions & excellent customer service!

~ Nancy Patel, Procurement @ ABC Company

Thanks to Clipper Controls, we streamlined our storm drain monitoring, preventing issues before they start. Great team to partner with on big municipal projects, and we all noticed great improvements!

~ John Smith, Controls Engineer @ ABC Company