TURNING BACKUP GENERATORS INTO GREEN ENGINES WITH BIODIESEL

摘要

Backup emergency generators represent a valuable resource in meeting fluctuating power needs throughout the country. Bio-diesel has the potential to turn these units into "green generators" and increase usage of the generators and bio-diesel fuel. Bio-diesel is produced from various vegetable oils, especially from soybeans, as well as from animal fats and used cooking oil. Bio-diesel offers many advantages in terms of handling and storage, engine performance and maintenance, as well as environmentally. Bio-diesel also carries concerns about operationally, environmentally and economically. However, these concerns are being addressed among facility managers, utilities and environmental agencies. The net effect is that bio-diesel represents a largely untapped opportunity, up to now, to turn otherwise unproductive standby generator assets into more valuable renewable resources. There is growing experience around the U.S. with bio-diesel in standby generators to make this a real energy management option.