We talk a lot about hybrid generators here on the Think Hire blog. That’s because we know how good they are at cutting operating costs, reducing emissions and balancing power supplies on site.

But just what is a hybrid generator and what are the benefits of using a hybrid generator on site? In this article, we’ll show you the different types of hybrid generator set up and explain how they can make a real difference to your costs and carbon emissions.

What is a hybrid generator?

A hybrid generator combines a source of power generation with a battery storage system, such as a BESS, to deliver cost-effective, efficient and dependable power. There are three types of hybrid generators:

• Traditional diesel hybrid generators – using a diesel generator with battery storage

• Clean fuel hybrid generators – using generators powered by HVO, LPG or even glycerine

• Renewable hybrid generators – drawing power from solar panels or wind turbines (these are often combined with a traditional generator to ensure consistent power supplies).

Top 10 benefits of hybrid generators

1. Lower fuel costs – traditional diesel generators are often run 24/7 at inefficient low loads. Hybrid systems allow the generator to be run less using less fuel to produce the same power.
   Benefit: reduces fuel costs by as much as 80% or more.

2. Lower emissions – less generator runtime means lower emissions of CO2, NOx and particulates.
   Benefit: meets pollution reduction targets and net zero goals, and improve your company’s environmental performance. 

3. Less noise pollution – battery storage allows you to power your site silently overnight while also reducing noise pollution during daytime operations.

Benefit: extends working hours and improve working conditions and relations with neighbouring properties.

4. Smaller generators – with battery back-up available to share the load, a hybrid generator does not need a large generator capable of dealing with maximum demand.
   Benefit: cuts the cost of generator hire and transport.

5. Less generator runtime – because generators only run when battery levels drop below a set level, or during peak demand, they suffer less wear and tear and use less consumables. 

Benefit: saves money on generator maintenance and repair as well as oil, filters etc.

6. Less generator stress – diesel generators suffer problems such as wet stacking when run constantly at low levels, or burn-out when pushed to their limits to meet high demands. Hybrid generators absorb fluctuations, allowing the generator to only run at its most efficient level.
   Benefit: protects your generator and extending its lifespan.

7. Matches site power demand – power demand on site fluctuates constantly as equipment is turned on and off. Hybrid generators use stored battery power to match the changing demands of your site.
   Benefit: deals with peaks and troughs of demand throughout the day 

8. Dependable power – battery storage means there is always power available should your generator break down.
   Benefit: avoids costly downtime on site

9. Reduced wear and tear – channelling power through battery storage delivers consistent power, without the surges and drop-outs often associated with stand-alone generators.
   Benefit: reduces the stress on connected equipment.

10. Greater flexibility – as discussed above, power input to a hybrid generator can be derived from renewable, sustainable energy as part of your generation mix.
    Benefit: facilitates the use of clean energy

Discover the benefits of hybrid generators with Think Hire

Stop wasting money on inefficient stand-alone diesel generators. Move to hybrid generators today and make serious savings on your operating costs, while delivering cleaner, quieter, more dependable power to your site.

Think Hire are the UK experts in portable, sustainable site power. Trust our team to take your site to the next level with everything from BESS to solar generators, all controlled by our industry leading energy management technology. 

We have the hybrid generator solution you need, so talk to our team and start saving today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a hybrid generator work?

A hybrid generator combines a traditional generator with a high-capacity battery to deliver cleaner, more efficient and more cost-effective power than you get from a stand-alone generator. 

Are hybrid generators suitable for all off-grid construction sites?

Yes. Hybrid power solutions are highly adaptable and scalable. Whether you’re running a small welfare cabin or powering a large-scale commercial construction site, a hybrid system can be tailored to meet your exact energy requirements.

How much money can a hybrid generator save me?

Many Think Hire clients report savings of over 80% on their generator fuel costs for delivering the same power output overall. This is due to less generator runtime and more efficient generation, including renewable energy. Reduced generator maintenance and extended asset life also contribute to the financial savings.

How easy is it to switch to a hybrid generator?

Very easy. Think Hire hybrid generators provide a like-for-like replacement for your traditional diesel generator system and can meet the demands of any size of site. You won’t notice any difference until you see your fuel bill!