When it comes to backup power or off grid energy solutions you might choose between solar power and diesel generators. Both the options have their own benefits but diesel generators are basically the better choice for reliability performance and cost effectiveness. In this guide you can learn everything about solar versus diesel generators and which is better.
Understanding solar power and diesel generators
Solar power system basically uses a solar system to convert sunlight into electricity. It requires a battery system to store energy for use at night or even on cloudy days. A diesel generator runs on diesel fuel to produce electricity; it can provide a constant power making it ideal for backup power during outages or as a primary power source in remote areas.
Why are diesel generators better than solar power?
- Diesel generators provide you instant and continuous power while solar systems depend on sunlight and battery storage. Solar panels cannot generate electricity at night or even during cloudy or rainy days. Diesel generator advantage is that it works 24/7 no matter what the weather. If you need uninterrupted power or a diesel generator is your best bet.
- Diesel generators produce more power as compared to solar systems. Solar panels have limited output and you need large battery storage to handle high power appliances. At the same time diesel generators can easily power heavy duty machines or refrigerators and air conditioners without any trouble. If you need power for industrial construction sites or large homes, diesel generators are your best bet.
- The cost of setting up a solar system is truly much higher than buying a diesel generator. Solar panels and batteries are expensive. It requires professional installation. You can say that batteries need replacement every five to seven years. Furthermore diesel generator cost is lowered and it provides simple installation and setup. There are no expensive batteries needed here. If you are looking for affordable power backup diesel generators are your best bet.
- Solar panels need direct sunlight to generate power effectively. If the weather is cloudy, rainy or snowy the efficiency drops. Power production is reduced in bad weather when you use solar power. At the same time when you use a diesel generator it works in any weather ensuring a reliable power supply. So if you live in a place with unpredictable weather a diesel generator is really reliable.
- Solar power systems require batteries to store electricity for use at night. The batteries are really expensive and need regular replacement. It has a limited lifespan of around five to seven years. There is also a chance that they might lose efficiency with time. Diesel generators don’t need batteries. They generate power on demand eliminating the cost and maintenance of your battery storage.
- Setting up a solar system is really complex and time consuming. It requires multi solar panels that are installed on the roof. Furthermore you might even have battery storage system wiring and inverters. You can say that a diesel generator on the flip side is plug and play. You just need to fuel it, start it and use it. If you need a quick power backup solution a diesel generator is truly really easy to set up.
- Solar panel systems are suitable for small appliances but struggle with high power demands. Solar power is not practical for factories, hospitals or construction sites. It is because batteries run out quickly if power demand is high. Diesel generators can handle large scale power needs. It is suitable for industrial and commercial use. If you need consistent high power output this generator is your best bet.
- Solar systems require regular cleaning and maintenance, especially the panels and batteries. The panels need frequent cleaning to maintain efficiency. At the same time the batteries degrade overtime and need replacement. Diesel generators require basic maintenance like oil change and filter cleaning. The best part is that the parts are easily available. You can say that diesel generators are easy and cheap to maintain as compared to solar systems.
So above all you need to know that solar power is a great eco-friendly energy choice but it has plenty of limitations like high initial cost, dependence and battery issues. A diesel generator is your best bet for reliable, powerful and cost effective energy. It works in all conditions, requires minimum maintenance and provides you consistent power for your home business and industries.