3 Green Alternatives to Fossil Fuel Generators
14th Jun 2022
To meet ambitious Net Zero emission reduction targets, global trends are pushing for a transition away from fossil fuels.
As such, many industries, particularly mining and construction, are considering ways to incorporate alternative power solutions to replace dirty, noisy diesel generators.
Here, we’ll look at what alternatives are out there and how industries are making the transition to cleaner power without disrupting profitability or efficiency.
3 Green Alternatives To Fossil Fuel Generators
Realistically, a total transition to clean power sources cannot happen overnight, nor is it feasible to eradicate the use of diesel fuel altogether.
Instead, companies can take what we call a ‘bite size chunk’ approach to decarbonisation.
By gradually integrating renewable technologies and reducing reliance on diesel generators, businesses can quickly build up an impact on their net zero balance sheet.
3 green power sources assisting the transition include:
1. Hybrid Power Systems
Any combination of two or more renewable and non-renewable energy sources can classify as a hybrid power system. Popular configurations include:
- Battery energy storage system (BESS) + Solar
- BESS + Diesel/Hydrogen generator
- BESS + Diesel/Hydrogen generator + Solar
In comparison to a single source system, hybrid power systems deliver a reliable, more efficient power supply for any construction, mining or agricultural site. They offer a reliable, scalable and low emission solution for operations in remote locations with limited or no access to the grid.
Reducing generator runtime from 24/7 to just a few hours a day (if that), hybrid power systems deliver significant CO2 and diesel savings and 30x less noise pollution. The integration of battery storage also acts as a buffer for fluctuating power and load demands – extending generator lifespan and decreasing maintenance costs over time.
By implementing renewable technologies like BESS and solar with existing diesel gensets, hybrid power systems make a significant impact without a 100% commitment to renewables.
2. Hydrogen Generators
When harnessed as a fuel source, hydrogen has the potential to transition some of the world’s largest CO2 emitting industries to a more sustainable future.
Hydrogen powered generators like the EODev GEH2 are specially designed to replace diesel or gas gensets in mobile, prime or standby applications. The GEH2 uses hydrogen with a Toyota fuel cell and a lithium-ion phosphate battery to produce 100kVA of clean, instant power with zero noise or CO2 emissions.
Compact and robust, the GEH2 is designed for use in rental, mining and construction industries. It’ll comfortably power everything from site offices, cranes and electric construction equipment to food stalls, telecommunications towers and service centres.
For more information on FAQs and popular applications of the GEH2, see our helpful article.
3. Solar
Solar power converts sunlight into a reliable source of energy. It’s one of the most popular clean power alternatives to fossil fuels.
Solar farms like the 5B Maverick are ideal for powering Australia’s construction, agricultural and mine sites with minimal carbon footprint. The Maverick is a 48-50 kilowatt ground mount solar array that seamlessly integrates into a hybrid power system.
The Maverick’s dense, compact layout outputs up to 1.6x more power per hectare than traditional single axis tracking or fixed tilt solar systems. Better yet, its preconfigured, pre-wired design ensures rapid setup, scalability and operation, so you can start generating clean power sooner.
Industries can also utilise solar power for other on-site equipment such as solar water pumps and solar light towers.
Get The Right Advice, Contact Us Today
Blue Diamond Machinery has been powering the industries that power Australia’s economy for over a decade. Now, we’re helping them transition to an emission-free future.
Whatever stage your business is at, we have the know-how and expertise to recommend the right solution.
For advice on taking the first steps to reduce your onsite emissions without compromising productivity or efficiency, get in touch with the team today.