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The Power of a Residential Generator for Back-Up Power

South Africans are being obliged to consider providing backup power systems, such as residential generators, for their homes. Eskom’s capacity problems are forcing them to implement higher and higher levels of load-shedding in order for them to cope with demand. Technical outages are also occurring more frequently as Eskom continues to struggle to maintain an ageing generation fleet. Despite the introduction of two new power plants, the utility is still obliged to keep using load-shedding to “balance the books” due to technical and design problems at their two new plants.

The biggest advantage of generators is that they are incredibly versatile and adaptable sources of electrical power. Gensets generally consist of an engine and, on a unit designed to output AC power, an alternator. Generators find applications in various scenarios, serving two primary roles. Firstly, they are used to supply electrical power to locations without access to the grid, known as prime power generators. Secondly, they serve as back-up units in areas with a grid connection, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid failures. Critical facilities like hospitals, communication hubs, fire stations, and server farms rely on back-up gensets to maintain continuous electricity. In the South African context, the requirement is typically for standby or back-up purposes.

This holds true for both businesses and homeowners – the difference being one of scale. A residential generator for a home is a smaller version of what would be employed at a large factory or office block. Consumers usually turn to one of two solutions, either a residential generator or a solar power generation system with energy storage in the form of batteries. Sometimes, both these options are used in tandem to provide a more robust solution.

 

Residential Generator as a Back-Up Option

A residential generator is attractive for several reasons. It provides an immediate source of power. A generator can be installed quickly and provide immediate power during grid outages, ensuring that essential appliances and systems in your home continue to function.

A residential generator will be substantially less costly, size for size, than an equivalent solar power system with a battery. Where power outages are not that common in your area, investing in a generator may be a more cost-effective solution compared to installing a solar power system with batteries. There are areas in South Africa that do not experience load-shedding – areas where Eskom does not switch off the power for strategic or other reasons. These areas are, however, not free from breakdowns or interruptions for grid maintenance.

Generators can run on various fuel sources, including diesel, natural gas, propane, or petrol, making them flexible so fuel choice can be based on availability, cost, and personal preference.

Unlike a solar power system, a residential generator is not reliant on weather conditions or time of day. A residential generator can operate regardless of the availability of sunlight or the presence of cloud cover.

Arguments against the use of a residential generator as a back-up solution include the fact that a residential generator will rely on a fossil fuel source. Fuel needs to be refilled regularly. Fuel levels need to be monitored and fuel will need to be stored on site, which may result in safety issues. Fuel is also costly.

Residential generators can be noisy, especially when operating at full capacity. A smaller residential generator will typically not come with any form of noise attenuation. All generators also produce some form of emissions, which may be a concern for health and will not suit environmentally conscious homeowners.

Residential generators are typically single-phase units and there is a limit in the power-output capacity they are produced in. There may not be sufficient electricity to power all electrical appliances and systems at some homes simultaneously during a grid outage. Multiple units may be employed but this adds to cost and complexity.

A residential generator will need to be maintained, and the more outages there are, the more frequently the unit will need to be maintained.

 

A Residential Solar Power System with Battery as an Option

Solar power systems harness energy from the sun, making them a clean and renewable energy source. They reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimise the environmental impact of your back-up solution. While the initial installation cost will be higher than for a residential generator of similar capacity, solar power systems provide free energy from the sun once installed. Low maintenance and free solar energy provide attractive long-term cost savings on electricity bills and protect the homeowner from utility tariff increases in the future. Generating your own electricity through solar power provides you with a degree of energy independence, reducing dependence on the grid.

Solar power systems operate silently and produce zero emissions, promoting a quieter and greener environment. Depending on your location and local regulations, excess electricity from your solar system can be fed back into the grid, potentially earning you credits or reducing your electricity costs. There are now several South African cities that allow for compensated feedback of power to the grid. Installing a residential solar power system with batteries can involve a significant upfront capital investment, including the cost of solar panels, batteries, and installation.

Solar power generation relies on sunlight which is unavailable every night and less reliable on cloudy days or in regions with limited sunlight. The power-generation capacity of a residential solar system is determined by the size of the system installed and particularly the number of panels provided. Solar panels require ample roof space or dedicated land area for installation. Limited roof space or other limitations for the placement of panels may result in insufficient energy to meet high energy demands or power all appliances simultaneously.

Solar batteries are costly and have a finite lifespan. They may require replacement after several years, incurring substantial additional costs.

Ultimately, the choice between a residential generator and a solar power system with batteries depends on factors such as your location, frequency of power outages, budget, environmental considerations, and personal energy needs. It’s important to evaluate your specific requirements and consult with professionals to determine the most suitable option for your home.

Residential Generator or Solar System Either Way Speak to the Experts

While small residential solar systems are relatively simple in principle, there are many pitfalls in practice. The same applies to residential generators. We at PacB are a long-established industry leader in power provision solutions. We provide solar solutions from utility-scale to residential applications. Our technical proficiency and system design expertise covers small residential installations to large, utility-scale projects. Our experienced engineers and technicians will create a premium, site-specific solar solution for your home. By choosing PacB, you avoid the financial and operational risks of not getting it right the first time. We’re equipped to install and maintain all types of renewable energy or hybrid solutions. Contact us today and talk to industry leaders in backup energy systems.