Pros and Cons of Diesel and Natural Gas Generators.

The rising awareness of environment well-being and sustainability has raised questions beyond the realms of mere economics. Today choice of industrial investments or machinery for domestic use has parameter beyond that of efficiency and cost. In this article we look at the pros and cons of choosing Diesel v/s a Natural gas generator.

Natural Gas Generators
Natural gas is regarded as one of the most affordable and effective fuels among non-renewable resources for power generation. Generators that run on natural gas can be used to power both emergency and portable generators and hence is a viable option too.

A natural gas generator works in a manner similar to other generators. Such generators are commonly used in larger cities since the supply of fuel can be made readily available through pipelines. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of the natural gas generators.

Advantages
• Natural gas is one of the cleanest fossil fuels when it burns as the emissions of sulphur, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide are considerably lower, in comparison to oil and coal.

• Natural gas does not produce a pungent odour, which is otherwise common in generators powered by oil or diesel.

• Natural gas generators are also effective in reducing costs when used to power homes as the electricity from the main utility source is a far more expensive alternative.

• Natural gas is also readily available in large cities since it is delivered directly through pipelines. Hence, when using natural gas powered generators, storage of fuel becomes less of a concern.

Disadvantages
• One of its advantages can also be regarded as a disadvantage. Since natural gas is supplied through gas pipelines, at times of natural calamities the supply of natural gas is disrupted. As a result, one might face a power down situation with lack of fuel, in a situation where you need to operate your generator the most.

• Natural gas is also extremely explosive and can be a serious fire hazard should the pipeline burst.

Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are extremely common as back-up units for emergency power supply.  Here are some advantages and disadvantages of them.

Advantages
• While diesel is considerably more expensive, it also has a higher energy density. So while you may pay more for the diesel, you will also get more energy out of the diesel than you would for the same volume of gas. Hence, fuel efficiency is by far the single most important advantage of diesel generators.

• Installing a diesel generator is the assurance of a steady power supply. Especially in establishments such as hospitals, this is very important because most of the machines used require constant power and one power outage might prove very risky

- Diesel engines do not require spark plugs or wires; this helps in reducing maintenance costs.

- The lifespan of a gas engine is much shorter than that of a diesel engine.

- Finally, being less flammable than other fuel sources, diesel generators also score high on the safety front.

Disadvantages
• Diesel generator can be considerably expensive in comparison to other generators.

• Noise has always been an issue with regard to diesel generators. While the newer models are designed to be quieter, the older variants can still be considerably noisy.

• Another drawback is that diesel generators are bulky and comprise large and heavy components. Thus, as opposed to smaller and lighter generators, diesel generators may not be the most preferred portable unit.

• Finally, given the recent trend of environmental awareness, diesel is also considered to be a major pollutant in certain areas.

In conclusion when it comes to choosing between diesel and natural gas generators, you will first need to answer two important questions:

• What is the main purpose that your generator will serve?

• How much are you willing to pay for your generator unit?

Mahindra Powerol forayed into Power Generation in 2002 and today is powering over 270,000 Diesel generator sets in India & in global markets. Our generators are designed to provide Fuel Efficiency, Better load acceptance, Minimal vibration, Low noise levels, and Low maintenance costs. Our commitment to quality has won us the prestigious Frost & Sullivan “Voice of Customer” award for the most preferred Genset Brand in the telecom segment and in the Customer Enhancement category. Mahindra Powerol was also recognized as Power Brand 2011 & Master Brand 2012.

Check out http://www.mahindrapowerol.com/ for some of the most outstanding generators.

Hope your decision favors both your pocket and the environment.