ADVANTAGES OF DIESEL GENERATORS Modern diesel engines have overcome disadvantages of earlier models of higher noise and maintenance costs. They are now quiet and require less maintenance as compared to gas engines of similar size. The main pros of diesel generators are: Relatively low maintenance: This is because the generator’s engine requires fewer components to start, so you won’t have to worry about changing spark plugs or rebuilding carburetors like you would have to with a gas engine. Durability: Diesel engines are quite tough in the workplace, so they will hold up through much wear and tear in a variety of environmental conditions. Safe storage: While still flammable, diesel carries a much lower risk for igniting than other types of fuel, like gasoline. Power output: Diesel generators are capable of handling larger power loads and will run for longer durations than other types of generators available. More rugged and reliable. Easy access to fuel: Often portable diesel generators are transported on the back of diesel vehicles. This means you don’t need to have two different fuel types when you’re out and about doing work. The main pros of diesel generators compared to petrol generators: Diesel engines are more fuel efficient that petrol engines. This means longer running time when running at the same capacity. Some diesel engines consume up to half as much fuel as compatible petrol engines. Diesel fuel is cheaper than petrol meaning they are cheaper to run. Diesel powered engines require less maintenance. This is in part due to diesel engines not having spark plugs or carburetors. This means no need to replace spark plugs or rebuild carburetors. In terms of life span, a diesel engine is much longer lasting. When compared to a typical petrol engine, a diesel engine can last up to 3 times longer. Diesel fuel is safer with less risk of ignition when compared to petrol. DISADVANTAGES OF DIESEL GENERATORS Nevertheless, diesel generators have a series of drawbacks, especially for the environment. Being one of the cheapest sources of energy available presently, other setbacks are starting to weigh in. In order to meet the European Union’s climate neutrality goals by 2050, the energy market is essentially bound to shift to renewable power solutions. The consumption of 1L of diesel emits on average 2.7 kg of CO2. Compared to other sources of power, diesel generators tend to have an outsized impact on pollution. It does not just create carbon monoxide but also other air pollutants such as particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. In light of European policies and regulations on greenhouse gas emissions and the underpinnings of the Paris Agreement, diesel generators are destined to lose their position to cleaner alternatives of energy generation. Diesel generators also contribute to noise pollution and compared to some energy source, may have a high upfront cost and servicing and maintenance works may be expensive. The major ongoing service requirement for a diesel engine is regular oil changes. Well-maintained diesel generators can last for a long time, but poorly maintained generators are prone to failures. In cold weather, starting the generator can be problematic. It can be overcome by the application of glow plugs and other heating elements which warm up the engine including the incoming air. But this comes at an additional cost. Furthermore, diesel generators emit hazardous exhaust fumes, are heavy and not easily portable. (Portable) diesel generators are most often combined with batteries for energy storage, although this combination poses some disadvantages. Batteries are far too heavy for many applications, discharge quickly and have long recharging times. It is also known that the useful lifetime of the batteries are short, they cause air acidification and the production of batteries uses up scarce natural resources such as cobalt and nickel. The main cons of diesel generators: The price of diesel will continue to rise due to regulations. Needs regular maintenance to keep the generators running. Fuel injection system and other parts are more likely to break down, resulting in lack of reliability and high costs for spare parts. Diesel engines are made from big and heavy components that can make repairs expensive. Although cheaper in price, the cost of installation may take more time and be more costly. Noise pollution. Diesel units can be very noisy, so they’re often placed away from work areas Diesel generators are far too heavy and bulky to be considered mobile and compact. They must be kept dry, otherwise they corrode easily. It is necessary to winterize the generator if using it in a cold climate.