1. What is the Diesel Generator Cost Equation?

The Diesel Generator Cost Equation calculates the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity produced by a diesel generator for home use. It considers fuel costs, generator efficiency, and maintenance expenses to provide a comprehensive operating cost estimate.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Diesel Generator Cost Equation:

Where:

• \( Fuel\ Cost \) — Cost of diesel fuel per liter ($/liter)
• \( Efficiency \) — Generator's energy output per liter of fuel (kWh/liter)
• \( Maintenance \) — Maintenance cost per kWh generated ($/kWh)

Explanation: The equation first calculates the fuel cost component by dividing fuel price by efficiency, then adds the maintenance cost to get total operating cost per kWh.

3. Importance of Cost Calculation

Details: Calculating cost per kWh is essential for comparing generator operating costs with grid electricity, budgeting for fuel expenses, and determining the economic viability of backup power solutions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter current diesel fuel price in $/liter, your generator's efficiency in kWh/liter (check specifications), and estimated maintenance costs. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical efficiency for home diesel generators?
A: Most home diesel generators range from 3-4 kWh per liter, but check your specific model's specifications for accurate values.

Q2: How do I estimate maintenance costs?
A: Annual maintenance typically costs 1-2% of generator price divided by annual kWh output. For precise figures, consult your maintenance records or service provider.

Q3: Should I include generator depreciation in the cost?
A: This calculator focuses on operating costs. For total cost of ownership, you would need to include capital costs spread over the generator's lifespan.

Q4: How does load factor affect the calculation?
A: Generators are most efficient at 50-80% load. Running at very low loads decreases effective efficiency, increasing cost per kWh.

Q5: How does this compare to grid electricity costs?
A: In most cases, grid power is cheaper, but generators provide valuable backup during outages. Compare your calculated cost with your local electricity rates.