2022.09.20
Hybrid Power Systems: Myths Debunked
Hybrid power systems are becoming an increasingly common sight across a range of sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and even large-scale events.
And it’s easy to understand why. Harnessing a hybrid power supply poses demonstrable sustainability benefits, as well as adding an increased degree of flexibility and scalability to a project.
But even the most innovative ideas have their naysayers, and hybrid power systems are no exception, with myths regarding cost, efficiency, and implementation frequently popping up.
Sadly, these myths often stem from a lack of understanding, so we thought we’d address them head-on. Hybrid power generation is a valuable tool in the push for cleaner, more sustainable projects, and, if used correctly, can reduce operational costs.
But before we get to myth debunking, let’s define our terms.
What is hybrid power?
Boiled down to their essence, hybrid power systems are a type of multi-faceted power generation that bring different types of power generation and storage together into a single system.
Initially, they were designed using non-renewable fuels, but as technology has continued to progress, hybrid power generation has kept pace.
For example, by harnessing zero-emission generators – such as the Stage V generator – and running on HVO fuel, it’s now possible to assemble a hybrid power supply that is cleaner and greener that traditional power generation methods.
However, myths regarding the effectiveness and convenience of hybrid power systems often crop up, and, in the interest of helping you lower your emissions, we thought we’d debunk a few of them.
MYTH: THEY’RE EXPENSIVE TO RUN
A common – and wildly inaccurate – myth surrounding hybrid power systems regards cost. Specifically, the notion that they’re more expensive to run than more traditional power generation methods.
And while it's easy to imagine the cause of this myth (prices are expected to be higher for battery technology), it couldn’t be further from the truth. For example, switching to a low-emission generator, combined with a battery hybrid in a construction silo application, can deliver a 47% reduction in fuel consumption, drastically slashing your operational costs in the process.
What’s more, by taking advantage of remote monitoring services, it’s possible to have total oversight of your fuel consumption, 24/7, meaning that you’ll be able to limit fuel wastage, saving even more of your budget.
MYTH: THEY DON'T MAKE MUCH OF A DIFFERENCE
As is always the case with technological change, some argue that hybrid power systems don’t make too much of a difference in emissions.
By integrating low-emission generators and battery energy storage options into your power generation plans, you’ll make a significant dent in your emissions. (Especially if you use HVO fuel as a renewable alternative to diesel!)
Case-in-point, units such as our Stage V generator and battery hybrid solution significantly lowers both NOx and CO2 emissions – both of which are major contributors to on-site emissions.
Of course, this means that the emissions reduction you see will depend on the equipment you choose, so it’s important to ask an expert when planning your hybrid power system.
MYTH: THEY LIMIT OPERATIONS
They don’t. In fact, the opposite is true. By harnessing low-emission generators and a battery, hybrid power generation makes operations significantly more efficient, especially when there’s fluctuating load throughout the day.
For example, when power demands are higher during the day, you’ll need to run the generator, but as operations slow - or even stop - overnight there will be a lower demand for energy, meaning you could switch to battery power. By doing so, you’d reduce both fuel costs and emissions.
In addition, if you’re operating in a city or built residential area, you’ll likely need to observe noise guidance, potentially limiting when you’re able to operate, and for how long.
However, by selecting a generator and battery hybrid system that emits little to no noise, you’ll be able to maximise productivity whilst meeting all noise legislation.
And there you have it. The most common myths about hybrid power systems, busted. If you’re eager to enjoy the benefits of hybrid power, get in touch with our experts.