Qnergy Solar Hybrid from OilPro: Power in ALL Conditions

As winter approaches, the days become shorter and colder. This puts stress on off-grid photovoltaic systems. Facilities need a consistent power supply yet face a power deficit in northern winters when solar production is low. This is made worse by the low temperature effects on battery efficiency. Many battery systems are undersized in an effort too minimize cost which results in shortened battery life and power outages in winter. The figure below demonstrates the limitations of off-grid solar power systems operating in Canada's Northern locations.

Qnergy PowerGen

Designed for rugged and remote operation, the PowerGen remote power generator provides reliable electrical power supply to the most demanding and mission-critical loads. Based on Qnergy’s arctic-proven, no-maintenance and highly reliable PCK series Stirling engines, the generator package can work seamlessly with a variety of fuel supplies, including natural gas, propane, biogas, and multiple associated gas streams.

PowerGen Stirling Advantage:

• Maintenance free 80,000h engine life (no oil changes, no field rebuilds)
• Efficient, low-emission combustion (100x lower than EPA CO and NOx limits)
• Wide operating temperature range (-40?C to 40?C)
• 5.65kW load-following engine (no load banks or wet-stacking issues)

Cold Weather Performance

Under normal conditions, the PV array supplies power through the system’s battery bank. The PowerGen engine sits in standby, monitoring battery health. When there is poor solar availability, the PowerGen intelligent control system will start the engine and charge the batteries. In cold northern climates, the waste heat of the PowerGen system is harvested to maximize system performance.

Benefits of the PowerGen Solar Hybrid:

• Hybrid design blends the advantages of solar energy with those of Stirling power
• 24/7/365, year-round off-grid power, minimal fuel use during difficult supply periods
• Smaller PV panel footprint
• Smaller battery bank with longer life (no deep cycling)
• Reduced engine fuel consumption
• Decreased operating costs (less maintenance and downtime)

Pacific Northwest Case Study

A pipeline operator was installing a cathodic protection station in a remote area. Although high voltage utility lines were available nearby, the cost to extend and transform the power for this small station was too high. Challenging weather conditions in this region made an off-grid solar system costly due to the size of the PV array and large battery bank needed to provide reliable power in the cold, dark winter months.

Pairing a more reasonably sized off-grid solar system with the PowerGen 5650 increased the reliability and value of the system. The graph below depicts the PowerGen’s ability to deliver consistent power during the challenging winter months. The generator also eliminates deep discharge cycles on the battery, extending the operating life. Using fewer batteries that last longer not only saves capital but reduces the environmental waste associated with disposal. With the intelligent control system, the engine only runs when required, optimizing fuel consumption. This is a key factor for switching from Diesel to Propane. Reliable Propane delivery allows for longer fueling intervals while maintaining cold start capability. This system adapts to changing weather conditions ensuring efficient power production, while the maintenance-free engine drives operational savings.

OilPro is Canada's most experienced stocking distributor of Qnergy's PowerGen line since PowerGen was CSA/Intertek approved for commercial sale in Canada. With four load-following models in the 600/1200/1800 & 5650 Watt range, each with split legs capable of providing 120 or 240 VAC for your specific field requirements we can assist you immediately with an optimal solution for instrument air, site SCADA power as well as onsite, ultra-reliable programmable return temperature heat tracing (10W/ft capable), we will convert your most frequently interrupted site into a good night's rest with greater uptime while mitigating emissions.

Also don't forget to ask us how the PowerGen is eligible for gas to power MTIP (Methane Technology Implementation Program) and help your team capitalize on up to $ 1Million/producer worth of credits available while minimizing your operations budget with the 80,000 hr maintenance-free Stirling technology.

More in-depth information about individual models and FAQ's on OilPro's PowerGen web page., or call OilPro at +1 403 215-3373, or contact us at [email protected]. Tom, Mike, Andre and Olav look forward improving your bottom line while mitigating emissions.