Until recently, diesel fuel was the go-to option for commercial and industrial standby power. Gaseous fuels were typically disregarded due to fuel availability, power, cost, density, and concerns about durability and fuel reliability in industrial settings. Presently, advancements in enclosures, engine technologies, and other components have clarified the distinctions between diesel generators vs natural gas generators, changing the preferences considerably. When discussing diesel vs natural generators, there are multiple pros and cons of both, depending on which SME owners and procurement managers decide which generator they must go for.
Differences Between Diesel and Natural Gas Generators
Some major differences between diesel vs natural generators are:
a. Efficiency is Important
Fuel choice often depends on price, especially in the face of rising demand and dwindling supply. Diesel generators, despite being more expensive than natural gas, offer higher energy output and a higher yield of usable power. This superior fuel efficiency is the main advantage of using a diesel generator, as it provides a more efficient alternative to other gas sources.
Natural gas is well known as one of the most environmentally friendly fuels, making it a preferred option for companies looking to follow current emissions regulations. Its transportation through pipelines ensures widespread availability in urban areas, offering a cost-effective fuel alternative and negating the necessity for on-site fuel storage. Additionally, natural gas generators typically operate with notably reduced noise levels compared to their diesel counterparts, fostering a less disruptive work environment.
b. Lifespan Considerations
Diesel generators have a potential lifespan that can be twice as long as that of natural gas generators. This durability stems from the robust construction of diesel engines, designed to endure prolonged exposure to high temperatures and pressures. Furthermore, diesel fuel exhibits lower susceptibility to deterioration and engine clogging compared to natural gas, contributing to the prolonged functionality of diesel generators. The lifespan of this generator type ranges from 25 to 30 years, contingent upon factors such as operational hours and the extent of maintenance undertaken for a natural gas generator.
c. Pricing Dynamics
Diesel generators basically cost more as compared to other generators. However, these generators have enough potential to run in the long run and, hence, are cost-effective. On the other hand, natural gas generators require less investment but can be heavy on your pockets with high or frequent maintenance costs.
d. Maintenance Requirements
The operational expenses of running a diesel generator can vary based on multiple elements, including the generator’s size, fuel efficiency, duration of use, and the prevailing cost of diesel fuel. Overall, when compared to alternative power sources like natural gas or solar power, diesel generators typically incur higher operational costs but lesser maintenance costs.
Although natural gas generators come with a lower initial cost, they generally demand more frequent maintenance compared to diesel generators. Considering that diesel generators boast a potential lifespan of up to double that of natural gas generators and entail lower maintenance expenses, they emerge as a more economically viable choice in the long term.
e. Emissions and Environmental Impact
A prevalent worry regarding diesel generators relates to their emissions. In comparison with petrol engines, these generators generate greater quantities of pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide. Furthermore, as diesel fuel is a fossil fuel, its combustion releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which plays a major role in the global environmental issue of climate change.
Natural gas releases fewer contaminants and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than diesel fuel does. The EPA acknowledges this distinction by implementing comparatively lenient guidelines for natural gas generators. As a result, environmentally conscious business proprietors are inclined to favour natural gas generators over diesel-powered ones.
Comparing Diesel vs. Natural Gas Generators
| Factors | Natural Gas Generators | Diesel Generators |
| Lifespan | Shorter lifespan as compared to diesel generators. | Diesel generators offer longer lifespans. |
| Fuel Availability | Natural gas is cheaper and is highly affordable. | Diesel is expensive compared to natural gas. |
| Pros | Environment-friendly | High durability |
| Cons | High maintenance cost | Causes pollution |
| For SMEs | SME owners looking for lighter backup can go for natural gas generators. | SME owners who want a heavy backup, in the long run, must go for diesel generators. |
Which is Better for You?
Tailored considerations for different priorities:
a. Efficiency and Longevity Priority
Usually, within its designated optimal operating range, a diesel generator operates at approximately 40 per cent efficiency, typically reaching up to 80 per cent of its total load capacity. When given 100 units of energy input, the output is 40 units of energy.
Diesel is far more energy-efficient than natural gas because it has a higher energy density than natural gas, which results in the same energy output difference. In addition to their efficiency, diesel generators are well known for their exceptional dependability.
b. Budget Priority
Natural gas generators operate on a clean-burning fossil fuel source, specifically natural gas or CNG (compressed natural gas), which earns them the reputation of being eco-friendly and cost-effective.
c. Environmental Concerns
Regardless of its benefits, the use of natural gas has significant negative effects on the surroundings, such as pollution of the environment and climate change. Methane is present in natural gas, which is a strong greenhouse gas with significant effects on the environment.
Choosing Excellence with L&T-SuFin
Based on the requirements, preferences, financial goals and usage, SME owners and procurement managers can choose between natural or diesel generators. Moreover, before opting for a generator for your business, you must acknowledge the pros and cons, environmental impact, maintenance cost, and serving capacity of natural and diesel generators.
When discussing diesel and natural gas generators, L&T SuFin stands as a comprehensive supplier for all SME owners and procurement managers, presenting a wide range of generators with top-notch quality, high durability, and great performance.
Users can expect to discover the best rates/prices of generators available at L&T-SuFin from verified suppliers by raising quotations on the platform. Users may avail business Finance and logistics to meet their business needs.
Contact the sales department and service department for a professional analysis and questions or site visits.