[RE-wrenches] Backup generator labor (was How large is too large?)

[Walt Ratterman]

Hello….Walt here.

 

I think the real question, when dealing with an off-grid system of any size is:

 

Do you want the system to work?

 

If so, use a generator.

 

Of course, there are, as always, variations to that theme (oversizing the solar 300%, and things like that), but in general – large grid = pv / diesel hybrid, at least in my book.

 

Walt Ratterman

SunEnergy Power International

www.sunepi.org

 

From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Joel Davidson
Sent: Tuesday, March 03, 2009 6:07 PM
To: jryago at netscape.com; RE-wrenches
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Backup generator labor (was How large is too large?)

 

Off-grid wrenches,

 

Genset backup or PV and wind supplementing a genset is cost-effective (except for its environmental impact). But what about the time spent setting up the genset and fuel storage, and maintenance, and repairs. A 2 to 6 kW PV system goes in pretty quickly, even with batteries. If you add a 4 to 10 kW genset to the mix, what percent of the job time does the genset take? How many hours are spent synchronizing the PV or wind system to the genset? And how many hours a year is reasonable for maintenance and repair? How many call-backs can you expect in the first 2 years? Thank you very much for your insights.

 

Joel Davidson

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Jeff Yago <mailto:jryago at netscape.com>  

To: RE-wrenches <mailto:re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>  

Sent: Tuesday, March 03, 2009 4:13 PM

Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] How large is too large?

 

I have designed and installed many off-grid systems and all but one included a backup generator.  The generator allows using a much more realistic sized battery bank and the fast charging process reduces generator run time.

 



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