Balancing the Grid: Integrating Gas Gensets with Solar Power for Reliable Energy Supply

Integrating gas gensets with solar power provides a reliable solution to meet the growing demand for electricity without harming the environment.

July 30, 2024. By News Bureau

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Greenhouse gas emissions

Green Power International

With machines and technology taking over our daily functions and automating work in industries, the demand for effective power supply is gradually increasing. In areas where traditional sources of electricity are not able to fulfil the power requirement, companies are turning to gensets. They are more dependable and easier to use, providing a consistent power supply when traditional sources fail.

Diesel-fuelled gensets are widely used to ensure a steady supply of power. However, they release a huge amount of harmful gas into the environment, prompting the exploration of renewable power systems to address mounting environmental concerns. The need of the time is a power supply system that is not only reliable but also cost-effective and sustainable to ensure environmentally friendly growth. In this quest, gas gensets integrated with technology to capture solar energy are gaining popularity across the industry for their ability to deliver a stable energy supply.

The Shift from Diesel to Gas Based Genset.
Gas gensets are an eco-friendly alternative to conventional gensets fuelled by diesel. These power generation units use natural gas or biogas to produce electricity, thereby avoiding emissions of sulphur dioxide, which can cause acid rain. The primary concerns with gas gensets are particulate matter and CO2 emissions, which are significantly lower compared to diesel-operated systems and can be further reduced. Gas gensets can be rapidly started and stopped, making them ideal for providing backup power and supporting grid stability during periods of high demand or low renewable generation. Furthermore, this kind of genset offers flexibility to switch between natural gas and other alternative fuels and also makes less noise.

In India, gas gensets have been extensively used as continuous power sources, for load shedding and for backup power. Nevertheless, their role is evolving as they are being integrated with renewable energy sources to meet the rising demand for sustainable power solutions.

Harnessing the power of the Sun
Solar power is abundantly available to us, making solar-generated energy a key component in mitigating climate change and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. With the help of photovoltaic (PV) panels installed in open spaces, sunlight is converted into electricity, providing a clean and abundant energy source. Solar power is a widely adopted form of renewable energy that effectively reduces greenhouse gas emissions and decreases reliance on the limited amount of fossil fuels available. Additionally, advancements in technology have made generating power from sunlight cost-effective, thereby making solar power increasingly competitive with conventional energy sources.

Balancing the grid
Solar power is indeed one of the choicest options to meet the growing demand for electricity across the country, but it is also inherently variable. Only utilising batteries with solar power in areas with limited power supply may not be the most reliable solution to overcome the challenge of irregular power generation. It can also lead to fluctuations that can destabilize the grid.

Integrating gas genset with solar power can help overcome this problem by providing consistent backup power source during periods of low solar output, ensuring a stable and continuous power supply. The power generated from sunlight can be utilized to support operations, but on days when solar output is marginal, a natural gas can provide the necessary power. The power duo can serve as key players in the pursuit of reliable and sustainable energy.

The benefits of integrating gas gensets with solar power are not only beneficial in reducing the dependency on fossil fuel and ensuring a consistent supply of power. It is an excellent solution for optimal utilisation of renewable energy. Together they can reduce the overall greenhouse gas emissions significantly as compared to gas genset alone. The business can also claim the financial incentives offered by the government to encourage investment in renewable energy

While both have their distinct benefits and functions, integrating them will enhance the overall efficiency and strengthen the power supply solution.

Challenges and future outlook
Without a doubt, combining gas gensets and solar power holds the key to the future of responsible energy generation. However, there are several challenges in the path to embracing this technology on a wide scale.

Foremost is the synchronisation of the two technologies to work together efficiently, which is complex. Balancing load demand and energy supply requires advanced control systems to ensure seamless switching between the two sources of energy and minimal downtime.

The compatibility of electrical and communication interfaces between the two can also be problematic at times. As gas gensets and solar power systems use different standards and protocols, harmonising the two to ensure efficient communication requires meticulous engineering. A lack of compatibility between the two systems can lead to communication breakdowns or failures, thereby increasing downtime and maintenance costs.

Not to forget the regulatory requirements, which are absolutely necessary to be followed. Meeting the protocols and standards set by the government is crucial for legal compliance and ensuring the reliability and safety of the integrated energy system. Any non-compliance can result in penalties, compromising both the safety of people and the efficiency of the system.

Then comes the huge investment required to set up this complex system. Additionally, the maintenance, operation processes and advanced proficiency in handling the technologies.

Lastly, understanding the environment of a region should be taken into consideration before moving ahead. In a region with maximum rainfall or that is covered with snow most of the year, setting up this system may not be an ideal solution.

Integrating gas gensets with solar power provides a reliable solution to meet the growing demand for electricity without harming the environment. It represents a significant step towards reducing pollution produced by industries, which are major sources of greenhouse gases. Additionally, this integration supports India's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Indeed, there are considerable challenges on the path to embracing this technology, which need to be addressed. Taking small measures every day can help transform society into sustainable communities where environmental consciousness guides our decisions and actions for a better future.

- Surbhi Puri, Director, Green Power International Pvt Ltd.