Hybrid Solar-Diesel Standby Generator Systems for Storm-Prone Areas
Storm-prone areas often experience frequent and prolonged outages. In areas of extreme weather, they may even last days or weeks. During these times, you can quickly run out of fuel for traditional backup generators. Still, some people aren’t willing to give up the power of diesel generators.
For those caught in this unique situation, hybrid solar-diesel standby generator systems can help you ride out long outages by combining reliable renewable energy and durable diesel.
Why Storm-Prone Regions Need Smarter Backup Power
When storms occur frequently, the power grid becomes more vulnerable. Utility workers may not be able to completely restore infrastructure damage before the next storm hits, creating longer restoration times and leaving many residents without electricity.
Climate change is exacerbating these events, making them more severe and frequent. As a result, those seeking to minimize the disruption of outages rely on backup power to bridge the gaps in comfort and continuity.
Fuel generators are efficient, reliable, and long-lasting, but they require a constant fuel supply. Gas stations may close during storms, or supply may dwindle, making them a less reliable power source. They also carry risks as they produce toxic emissions during operation and must be used in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
Solar is smarter backup power. Solar generators are safe to use during storms and don’t require refueling; however, solar power alone can fall short in constantly cloudy and stormy conditions.
Hybrid systems eliminate these single points of failure, creating a more robust solution.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Solar Generator (PV400W)
What Is a Hybrid Solar-Diesel Backup Power System?
A hybrid solar-diesel generator is a whole-home backup power solution that combines both solar panels and diesel generator components. Some systems offer intelligent switching technology that automatically selects the most optimal power source based on current conditions, while others allow you to choose the desired mode.
Battery storage is critical. It helps bridge the gap by storing excess energy from solar sources that you may not be using right away, so you can utilize it later—when you run out of diesel or when the sun isn’t shining.
They provide comprehensive coverage for those who face consistent and prolonged outages.
Many of these systems feature a modular design, allowing you to scale the solar aspect from essential circuits to full home power needs if you choose or if your energy needs grow and require it.
System Components: What You’ll Need to Build a Hybrid Setup
A hybrid setup requires both the components of a solar generator and a diesel generator.
The diesel generator is an all-in-one piece of equipment. Select the appropriate size to meet your peak power demands, allowing for some extra capacity to accommodate surge loads or additional appliances or devices.
Then, for the solar portion, you’ll need a solar panel array sized for your power needs and geographic location, as well as a battery bank or a portable power station like the one used in the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Solar Generator (PV220W), which has sufficient capacity to bridge the solar/diesel cycling periods. The solar components are ideal to use when using a noisy diesel generator isn’t reasonable or when fuel isn’t available.
A smart charge controller helps manage the flow of power between your solar, diesel, and battery systems, and an automatic transfer switch can seamlessly transition your home between power sources.
How the System Works During a Storm or Outage
A solar-diesel combination can perform better than gas alone for hurricanes or prolonged outages. If you have a standby system, it will automatically detect a loss of grid power and activate your backup power sequence. If you have a manual system, you can turn it on once you lose power.
Behind the scenes, your solar panels will charge during daylight hours, weather permitting. The DC power is sent to your battery storage, and when ready to use, it will convert it to usable AC power.
The diesel generator will kick in when your battery’s capacity levels drop below a predetermined threshold, ensuring there are no gaps in coverage.
The battery reduces the diesel generator’s runtime cycles, while the diesel engine mitigates any issues caused by insufficient solar energy. Because these two power sources are so different, they make up for each other’s weaknesses, creating a more reliable backup system.
Solar Considerations for Hybrid Systems
If you’re in the market for a hybrid system, here are a few things to think about:
Do you want a portable or a standby system? Portable options provide flexibility, but require storage during storms. Roof-mounted installations require a professional assessment of their structural wind load capacity, whereas ground-mounted systems require more space and protection. However, these integrated options require less ongoing involvement on your part.
Where is the most secure panel placement? They must withstand high winds and the potential impact of storm debris. Avoid placing them below large tree branches.
How large is the electrical load you want to support? If you’re only worried about essential appliances, your battery capacity can be less than if you want whole-home backup.
How much sun does your area get? Your geographic location affects solar production, especially during stormy months. The less sun you receive, the more panels you may need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Hybrid Solar-Diesel Standby Generator?
A hybrid solar-diesel standby generator is an integrated backup power system that combines solar panels, battery storage, and a diesel generator. It combines the benefits of both systems and eliminates their drawbacks, creating a more reliable electricity source during outages.
What Are the Benefits of a Hybrid Solar-Diesel Standby Generator?
The primary benefits include increased reliability with dual power sources, an extended runtime that is not solely dependent on fuel or sunlight, quieter operation, reduced emissions, and lower operating costs through reduced diesel consumption.
Final Thoughts
Is the hybrid solar-diesel generator system the next step in residential backup power? It might be. Pairing robust solar generators like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Solar Generator (PV400W) with dependable diesel generators eliminates single points of failure and pays dividends through reduced fuel costs and increased energy security.
While there’s a significant upfront investment in combining these technologies, it’s well worth it for those who live in storm-prone regions and face relentless power outages.