When choosing a power system, it’s easy to focus solely on the generator itself, but it’s also vital that you consider the engine that’s powering it. The right engines will improve operational efficiencies, enhanced reliability, and lower the total cost of ownership. Recently, Volvo Penta spoke to Microgrid Knowledge about the key things to consider when choosing the right engine…
1) Efficiency and power
Whenever power is required, an engine must operate efficiently and be dependable. Perhaps as equally as important is knowing that the engine will deliver the powerful performance you need. For this, examine the power density and load balance capabilities.
Volvo Penta’s genset engines are characterized by their ability to immediately start and instantly deliver sufficient load acceptance – fulfilling G3 demands on all power nodes according to ISO8528-5.
2) Total cost of ownership
Consider factors such as fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance, and a strong service network to support when needed. Each of these has the potential to contribute to a favorable total cost of ownership for the operators.
Over five years, as much as 90–95% of your total cost of operation can be ascribed to fuel cost. Volvo Penta prime power engines provide a highly efficient combustion strategy with common rail fuel injection that translates into minimized consumption. Additionally, Volvo Penta has added an efficient aftertreatment system, to its Tier IV final and Stage V engines, that further decreases the need for fuel. All in all, the engines offer demanding customers a world-class solution to fuel consumption challenges.
3) Emissions
Another element that is emerging more commonly as a key point of consideration is emissions output. Organizations may opt to partner with a provider who can offer low emission levels as a means to meet growing regulatory and societal demands for more environmentally friendly operations and a reduced carbon footprint.
By closely following the development of emission regulations Volvo Penta offers customers optimized solutions that comply with legislation demands while never compromising on performance and efficiency.
4) Packaging and installation
Finally, there is the packaging and installation. Microgrid operators should look for optimal use of space and how well the engine is packaged. When it comes to this, some organizations may find it surprising to learn that using multiple generators in a single microgrid application can actually be a source of cost savings. The approach of paralleling and synchronizing generators has been proven in the industry by our partner and distributed energy innovation company, PowerSecure.
Volvo Penta is an independent supplier of Power Generation applications, supporting customers from the design stage to installation and aftermarket service through its worldwide network of Volvo Penta dealers. So, you’ll always be able to find a perfect Volvo Penta engine for the next power generation or off-road setup – no matter the conditions or the environment.
