While looking for a reliable power supply, business owners often encounter two common options: solar inverters and diesel generators.
The latter has been a traditionally popular alternative for decades.
While diesel gensets work as a power source, they come with a considerable cost. However, so do solar inverter systems!
So now, the question is, which option is more affordable, particularly for businesses?
Let’s compare both to find out the answer.
What is a Solar Inverter?
A solar inverter plays a crucial role in the utility of every solar power system. It converts direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) to power appliances, store in batteries, or supply to the electrical grid.
Some types of solar inverters include the following:
- Microinverters: These inverters are installed individually on every solar panel. These cost more than others but excel in performance with shady conditions.
- String Inverters: These connect numerous solar panels in a series. They are economical but may underperform in shady circumstances.
- Off-Grid Solar Inverters: As the name suggests, these inverters are not connected to the grid, functioning in parallel with batteries to supply AC.
- Hybrid Solar Inverters: Hybrid inverter types combine features of conventional inverters with energy storage provision. You can integrate them with batteries.
What is a Diesel Generator?
A diesel genset has a diesel engine and electric generator to produce electricity. It is a conventionally popular option that serves as a backup power source in places where the grid supply is unreliable or unavailable.
Key Differences Between Solar Inverters and Diesel Generators – Cost Perspective
Whether solar inverters or diesel generators, the cost depends on numerous factors like installation, maintenance, routine functions, etc. Let’s look at some.
Aspect |
Solar Inverters |
Diesel Generators |
| Upfront Costs | High | Low |
| Operational Costs | Since sunlight is free, solar inverters have a considerably low operational cost. | Diesel generators need diesel (fuel). Hence, although the upfront cost is low, the operational costs are pretty high due to various factors and resources required. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance. Requires only cleaning and occasional part replacement. | High and frequent maintenance. Diesel gensets need periodic oil changes, and regular fuel system maintenance. |
| Longevity | Solar inverters are a one-time investment serving in the long run, which is 10-15 years. | The lifespan is 5-10 years, depending on the frequency of usage and maintenance. |
| Suitability | Again, it is a long-term solution, apt for consistent and long-term energy needs. | Diesel gensets can run for a short time. Hence, they are more suitable for emergency use. |
In addition to the above, sustainability is another benefit that solar inverters offer. Although it isn’t something directly related with cost, for those looking for sustainable solutions, it can prove a noteworthy advantage.
Solar Inverters vs. Diesel Generators – Which One to Choose?
Overall, solar inverter systems emerge as the podium winners!
Why? Of course, they have a high upfront cost. However, if you look at the larger picture, they prove a more affordable option.
This is because their maintenance and operational costs are much lower. Besides, they serve you for a long time, thus proving a single-time investment.
Diesel generators are reliable but only when you maintain them regularly and have a separate and considerable fuel budget.
If you need smart energy solutions for your business, EnerTech has got you covered.
With over three decades of experience providing sustainable solar power-driven solutions, EnerTech has become synonymous with excellence.
As one of the leading solar inverter manufacturer in India, we serve the industrial world with various products. These include EnerTech SunMagic (off-grid solar inverter), Solar Hybrid Inverter 1 Ph: SunMagic, 3 phase solar inverter: REeFI and Advance AI-Based Solar on Grid Inverter.
As a best solar inverter supplier, all our products are tech-driven and designed to deliver custom efficiency, thus catering to industry owners of varying power needs.
Some common solar inverter system features include,
- Wide input voltage range
- Battery management system
- Overload and short-circuit protection
- Multiple output options
- No break changeover time
- Adjustable grid changing current
- Large LCD
Click to learn more about solar inverter price and email us at sales@enertechups.com to allow our experts to take you through our product features and custom utility.
