Construction projects need to be on time and on budget – and to do that you need reliable power. Shore power isn’t always reliable, or even available and for a long time diesel generators were the only option. Diesel generators have long been the go-to choice for temporary power, but solar-powered electric generators are proving to be a better, more cost-effective way to power job sites.
Busy project managers are reluctant to make changes that could slow down a construction site, but solar-powered generators bring a lot of advantages that can streamline construction projects and reduce operational costs. Let’s explore the benefits of solar generators over traditional diesel options, and why considering a solar generator for your next project could make more sense.
What Are Solar Electric Generators?
Solar generators are portable units that capture energy from the sun using photovoltaic (PV) panels and convert it into electricity. They store this energy in batteries, providing power even when the sun isn’t shining. At Mobile Solar, our generators are mounted on heavy-duty trailers and come with a variety of options. Mobile Solar has a full line of solar generators that can be easily transported by most passenger pickup trucks, and positioned to work with your job site almost anywhere.
The best part about solar generators is their simplicity. Unlike diesel units, which require fuel, oil changes, and other upkeep, solar generators are largely maintenance-free. They operate for extended periods, make no noise, emit no exhaust and can start providing power as soon as you plug into them.
No exhaust fumes, no noise, and minimal maintenance make solar generators an attractive alternative to diesel power. This can be really beneficial for construction sites where regulations regarding emissions and noise pollution are increasingly strict. They also make it easier for the crew to work without noise and fumes everywhere.
Comparing Solar vs Diesel Generators
Solar Generators:
Solar-powered generators don’t have an exhaust, making them them a cleaner choice. They reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects don’t require complicated permits to operate. Additionally, they operate silently, making it easier on the builders and any neighbors to the site where noise might be an issue.
Diesel Generators:
We all know diesel generators produce stinky exhaust, making the air harder to breathe and looking nasty. Diesel engines also make a lot of noise, which can lead to complaints from nearby residents or harder for the builders to communicate or hear each other. For projects that must comply with local noise ordinances, diesel generators can even be a liability.
Maintenance and Operating Costs
Solar Generators:
One of the most biggest advantages of solar generators is their low operational and maintenance costs. Since they don’t rely on fuel, they eliminate the need for refueling runs, expenses and outages. Additionally, they have less moving parts and rarely require maintenance. They provide power that is always on without any pricey runtime overages or double and triple shift charges.
Diesel Generators:
Diesel generators require regular upkeep. Oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and exhaust system checks are routine parts of operating diesel units. This means more time maintaining and higher project cost, especially if generators are running 16 to 24 hours a day. You also need to factor in the fluctuating cost of fuel and time spend running to and from to source the fuel.
Efficiency and Convenience
Solar Generators:
Solar generators are highly efficient. They can generate power throughout the day and store excess energy for nighttime use. There’s no need to pause operations to refuel, and no fuel storage is required. Solar units are also easy to transport, typically mounted on trailers that can be moved with standard pickup trucks. For busy construction teams, this means less downtime and a faster setup process. Power levels can be monitored remotely and additional solar arrays can be used to harvest more energy.
Diesel Generators:
Diesel generators are often bulkier and dirtier when it comes to transport. They require a steady supply of fuel, and if it runs out it can grind the project to a halt. Diesel also means fuel supplies and storage on-site, increasing logistical challenges. Transporting diesel unit fuel requires trucks and additional manpower you could spend working.
Why Choose Solar?
Long-term Cost Savings: While solar generators have a similar or slightly higher upfront cost, they offer significant long-term savings by eliminating fuel and reducing maintenance. No refueling, no oil changes, and no expensive repairs make solar generators more efficient - especially if you run 2nd and 3rd shifts on your diesel generator.
Quiet Operation: Unlike diesel generators that make noise, solar generators operate silently. This is especially beneficial for projects where noise or neighbors is a sensitive issue. Less noise also means a better work environment, allowing teams to communicate without yelling and use less ear protection.
Reliability in Extended Use: Solar-powered generators can operate continuously during the day and switch to stored energy during the night. This is particularly valuable for long shifts or multi-day projects, as you don’t need to worry about refueling or maintenance interruptions. Integrated backup generators or supplementary solar arrays can make it easy to get as much power as your site needs.Conclusion
The construction industry is evolving, and new solutions are becoming a big part of modern construction and job site management. Permits, lack of shore power and environmental regulations don’t have to be an issue when you use solar generators. Solar-powered generators are an exciting new option for the construction industry, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective alternative to diesel generators.
If you’re considering a solar generator, consider the MS-425 solar generator for construction projects