Powr2 highlights battery benefits

15 January 2024

Real-world examples showing how battery energy storage systems can reduce emissions and deliver operational efficiencies when used alongside a diesel generator were given by the manufacturer Powr2 in a recent webinar presentation. 

Tim Doling, Powr2’s Director of Innovation, explained how the company’s Powrbank battery units were being used by customers across diverse markets.

The generator initially provides power for the load requirements and then charges the battery, which then takes over running the system until recharging is needed. 

Tim said that the battery energy storage system (BESS) could reduce generator run time by up to 80%, reducing emissions, fuel consumption and noise, as well as lowering running costs. 

One example quoted came from the Australian rental giant Kennards Hire relating to a motorway tunnel construction project in Sydney. The project initially used a 150kW generator and battery combination, primarily to power site accommodation units. However, the generator was soon swapped for a 100kW model as the battery was able to handle the base loading so effectively. 

Kennards calculated that the production of some 129 tonnes (286,000 lbs) of carbon emissions had been avoided. 

At another project in the US, a contractor had avoided 115 tonnes (254,851 lbs) of carbon and reduced fuel usage by 51,629 litres (11,357 gallons). The BESS had also been used in conjunction with two solar panel arrays. 

Tim explained how data relating to site running can be monitored by a system and advice given on optimum generator sizing, as well as helping to ensure that electrical equipment was not left on unnecessarily. 

● Powr2, says that its Powrbanks offset no less than 118 billion tonnes (261 billion lbs) of carbon during 2023. The company will also be exhibiting at the Executive Hire Show on 14  and 15 February at the Coventry Building Society Arena, stand D20.