Hybrid Energy System For Gen-Sets

Powr2, Norwalk, Conn. has launched a new product called Hybrid Energy Systems (HES). Powr2 said this the HES is designed to help power rental companies expand their markets, cut maintenance and fuel costs, improve efficiency and reduce emissions. In addition, the technology will help extend generator life and increase resale value, the company said.

The Powr2 HES is a portable power supply that integrates with diesel generators to optimize load capacities. The power supply features lithium ion battery technology and automatic load level sensing, allowing it to switch power flow as needed between the generator and the HES.

Powr2 offers six HES models with outputs from 3.7 kVA to 60 kVA. Storage ranges from 7.5 kWh to 120 kWh. All models feature Powr2’s Node ECM (energy control module) seven-inch touch screen. Node retrieves data from all connected devices including inverters, batteries, diesel gensets, PV and more.

The system displays the information on the screen and uses it to inform which energy source to use and which loads to prioritize. Powr2 also offers its Prism EMS (energy management system) software for reporting and business intelligence, remote asset management and customer billing. The HES range features remote generator start and remote communication, including GPS location tracking.

In operation, HES allows the generator to be used for higher loads and stored energy for lower loads. The HES also enables the storage and use of alternative energy sources when paired with electricity-producing systems such as solar, wind and hydroelectricity. In addition, it is virtually silent, making it ideal for noise-sensitive jobsites, events or applications.

Users control the operation of the diesel generator and Powr2 power supply based on specific needs and jobsite parameters by selecting from three predetermined run modes on the HES. One of the modes is the timer, which allows operators to set the generator for constant running at times when power usage is highest, often during the day.

Lower power draw periods will be programmed for HES operation, running the site on stored energy. When the situation permits, the HES can be set as the primary power source and the generator will only kick in to recharge the unit’s battery.  Powr2 said this is especially applicable in situations where noise is an issue or where a generator is much larger than the needed power draw.

The final mode, load sensing, enables the system to monitor power levels and automatically switch between generator and HES as the power draw demands. This mode is targeted for applications where the power need fluctuates significantly throughout the day. This provides an uninterrupted power supply even if the generator fails and makes the HES applicable for remote location applications, such as oil and gas or emergency use, the company said.

In addition to eliminating the issues associated with running a generator on low load, the HES technology also allows users to rent a smaller generator by providing temporary extra power for load spikes — for example, the surge in demand when a motor starts up. Powr2 said HES inverters can handle load spikes double their specified capacity.