For backup power, battery energy storage is the modern replacement for (or supplement to) generators, offering the same backup reliability, with added cost savings and flicker-free power.
Can battery energy storage systems replace diesel generators?
Let's now look at another option that's currently available, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and why it can replace diesel generators, which are estimated to provide over 20 gigawatts of backup power globally in the data center industry today.
Furthermore, it estimates that an additional 10,000 megawatts of large-scale battery storage will become operational by 2023. Battery storage is now considered a viable alternative to generators on a short-term basis. Doubts exist, however, about how well the technology can perform in a long-term outage scenario.
Why should you use a generator and a battery?
Increased resilience - Both batteries and generators bolster defense against power disruptions. Emergency backup power - Generators provide longer-term power for essential devices. Solution for prolonged outages - For extended blackouts, the combination ensures continuous power that works more effectively together.
Why are generators important?
Generators are considered an important component of emergency and disaster preparedness because they can run longer than a battery storage system cycle, which is preferred for shorter-term outages. Typically, the cost differs depending on the manufacturer, power capacity, battery type, and other factors.
Batteries are finally rounding the corner and becoming viable alternatives to diesel generators for backup power. Two major recent developments are important: Data center technology company Switch has said it will use Tesla Megapacks to support more than 800-megawatt hours of storage capacity in its Nevada data center campuses.
Do you need a battery or a generator for a standby generator?
Standby generators rely on a good fuel supply, and many in the U.S. are powered by natural gas, diesel, or propane. Natural gas generators are the most common and are easier to maintain than other types. You don't have to choose between a battery and a generator. In some cases, it may make sense for you to combine them for optimal energy backup.