Diesel power plants differ in terms of electrical output, type of current (three-phase alternating / single-phase, direct current), output voltage, and current frequency (for example, 50, 60 Hz).

By designation, diesel power plants are main, reserve, emergency. 

In terms of power, small – up to 50 kW, medium – up to 200 kW and large – more than 200 kW. By the degree of automation: first, second or third.

Also, diesel power plants are divided according to the type of diesel engine cooling, air or liquid. Power plants with a liquid-cooled diesel engine are units of large power and size.

Diesel power plants are:

• Mobile – power plants with a capacity, as a rule, up to 1000 kW. They are used as a portable (portable) or backup power supply. They are often presented in a special soundproof casing or container with standard (permitted) transport dimensions.

• Stationary (industrial) – power plants, of any capacity and type, integrated into a single system of the power complex.

By design:

• Linear or traditional rotation generator.
• The open version is the basic version of the power plant intended for placing the electrical installation in a specially equipped room.
• In a soundproof casing – for indoor or outdoor installation with requirements for noise reduction.
• Container – the installation of the power plant in a block container is carried out for the operation of the installation in severe climatic conditions and increased vandal resistance.
• The power plant can be installed in a van, car or chassis. Thus, it acquires the status of a mobile power plant.