UK Power Networks has unveiled a fleet of nine hybrid battery-engine generators that promise to slash carbon emissions and noise pollution during essential maintenance and fault repairs on its electricity network.
Developed with British clean-tech specialist Aquafuel Research, the self-charging units run on a conventional engine during the day, when ambient noise is higher, then switch to silent battery operation overnight. It’s estimated that by using the technology, UK Power Networks could save up to 68 tonnes of CO2 a year while reducing fuel consumption by 71%.
Three hybrid models will cover everything from single-property supplies to multi-home outages. A 12 kVA/30 kWh unit can keep power flowing to two houses for as long as three days without burning diesel; a 60 kVA/30 kWh version will support five homes for a full day; and a compact 6 kVA/12 kWh set is aimed at individual premises and temporary traffic lights.
“The biggest impact will be on customer service because in the occasional event of a power cut, we can restore power to homes using a cleaner and quieter temporary power source,” noted Gary Marjoram, UK Power Networks’ Hybrid Battery-Engines Project Lead.
“Our new hybrid generators demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer service. Combining engine and battery units on a single, compact trailer, has created a greener, efficient and versatile power supply during essential network maintenance.”
Paul Day, CEO of Aquafuel Research Limited, added, “We’re proud to work with UK Power Networks on these bespoke new hybrid generator designs, which optimise fuel consumption and reduce pollution and engine noise.
“UK Power Networks is leading the industry in partnering with us to develop these unique integrated hybrids, incorporating our unique British made batteries, software and controls.
“Crucially these were developed with the UK Power Networks operations teams who are at the sharp end of responding to faults and keeping the power on for customers. The single trailer design simplifies transportation and refuelling and means they’re easy to use whenever they’re needed.”
