Wisconsin-based Kohler Co. said its power group acquired Merseyside-based Clarke Energy Ltd., a multinational specialist in the engineering, construction, installation and maintenance of engine-based power plants.

Knowsley-based Clarke employs more than 1,100 people.

Kohler said company founder Jim Clarke and current CEO Jamie Clarke “and all other company leaders will be maintaining their roles” following the acquisition.

“Clarke Energy’s end-to-end capabilities are very highly regarded around the world and the company’s products and services are an excellent fit within our existing power systems business,” said Kohler CEO David Kohler.

“We’re excited about this acquisition because it adds the distribution of large gaseous generators – viewed as a clean power source – to our product portfolio.

“We believe Clarke Energy’s prime and continuous gaseous solutions are an ideal complement to our existing diesel generator offering for standby applications.”