Eco-Friendly Selection of Diesel Generator Based on Genset-Synchro Technology for Off-Grid Remote Area Application in the North of Quebec

Abstract

For most of their energy requirements, greater part of remote communities and small islands around the world rely on imported fossil fuels. The economical cost of energy is therefore very high not only due to inherent cost of fuel, but also due to transportation and due to maintenance costs. One solution for saving fuel in a diesel generator is to allow the engine to operate directly in relation to the request for electrical load at variable speeds. Genset-Synchro Technology has developed an innovative variable speed generator technology (patent pending) that allows applications where power demand varies widely to benefit from the new technology that maintains constant voltage and frequency while adjusting the generator stator speed to power demand. This paper will present an innovative approach for optimizing the energy production based from the fact that the structure that contains the stator windings of the generator is mounted on roller bearings, which allows its free rotation around the axis of the rotor, consequently stopping the stator structure from being static and aims to minimize the unit cost of electricity. Case study on application in remote area in the north of Quebec is described. A saving of 7%-9% on fuel consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) under low winter ambient temperatures has been registered.

Effects of Low Charge and Environmental Conditions on Diesel Generators Operation

“…The other consequences of this type of operation are increases in fuel injection delays (physical delay) and combustion delays (chemical delay). The combination of these consequences will lead to a degradation in the self-ignition speed and a complete diesel engine malfunction [35,40]. Figure 8 summarizes the three main main effects of cold start on the engine:…”

“…The starting of a diesel generator is considered cold until the engine and fluids have reached a normal operating temperature. At temperatures below 60 • C, a change in the injection timing and amount of fuel injected optimizes combustion stability and reduces emissions during the warm-up phase of the engine [35,40]. Temperatures below 0 • C need more drastic changes, especially regarding the type of oil used (less viscous oil is more suitable for cold conditions).…”

A Review and Comparison on Recent Optimization Methodologies for Diesel Engines and Diesel Power Generators

“…On the other hand, electrical technology such as application of Genset-Synchro alternator to a diesel engine has shown a significant fuel saving in [56] [57] [58]. The Genset-Synchro alternator is a power unit control system with a highly original approach for power generation based on an innovative alternator design [58], Figure 18.…”

“…On the other hand, electrical technology such as application of Genset-Synchro alternator to a diesel engine has shown a significant fuel saving in [56] [57] [58]. The Genset-Synchro alternator is a power unit control system with a highly original approach for power generation based on an innovative alternator design [58], Figure 18. Modifications to the structure holding the stator windings are the leading principle behind the Genset-Synchro alternator where this structure now rotates freely in reference to the rotor and frame [56] However, with the Genset-Synchro concept, it becomes possible to control the synchronous speed of a 3-phase alternator by controlling the mechanical speed of the stator (control of stator speed only).…”

Supercharging of Diesel Engine with Compressed Air: Experimental Investigation on Greenhouse Gases and Performance for a Hybrid Wind-Diesel System

“…This enables the diesel engines to stop completely during those periods, leading to a substantial decrease in fuel consumption. The use of wind-diesel hybridization (WDH) at these autonomous grids could consequently, reduce the exploitation deficits by encouraging the use of the wind resource as a local, free "fuel'', instead of diesel, which is an imported fuel [3] [4] [5]. In addition, studies have been conducted to analyze the different constraints related to the introduction of wind power in these isolated zones and consequently propose a technological solution, which, on one side, will adapt to the technical and financial challenges, and on the other side, adopted by the major stakeholders-the utilities, the government and the local population.…”