Our Partners

Address

Purdue University's Wade Utility is a combined heat and power (CHP) central power plants that generates steam to satisfy the heating and cooling needs of the University's campus. Purdue's system is the only source of steam for heating academic buildings, research facilities, and residence halls. Along with heating and cooling the campus, the Wade Utility plant also generates varying quantities of electricity (about 50 percent of campus needs) with steam driven turbines.

Though the plant is connected to the grid for base load needs, the University does not sell power to the grid. The power plant is critical for the functioning of the campus for it ensures reliable power supply to the West Lafayette campus's multitude of labs and teaching activities. In addtion to ensuring research and teaching continues despite possible failures in the grid, the plant's ability to supply reliable power at a moment's notice helps ensure the safety of Purdue's faculty and students.