Comparison of Solar PV System and Diesel

Generator for Power Supply

1. Introduction
The purpose of this discussion is to compare the solar photovoltaic (PV) system and the
diesel generator as power supply options, focusing on their cost, efficiency, reliability, and
environmental impact. This comparison will help us make an informed decision for future
power solutions in our projects.

2. Overview of Each System

Solar PV System:
 Uses sunlight to generate electricity.
 Components: solar panels, inverter, batteries, charge controller, and mounting
structure.
 Works best in areas with good sunlight availability.
 Low operating cost and long lifespan (20–25 years).

Diesel Generator:
 Produces power using a diesel engine connected to an alternator.
 Can operate anytime, regardless of weather.
 High fuel and maintenance cost.
 Typically used for backup or remote areas without grid access.
3. Advantages and disadvantages of each system
separately.

Advantages of Solar PV Systems:

 They provide clean, green energy with no greenhouse gas emissions, making them
environmentally friendly.
 The energy source—sunlight—is free, abundant, and renewable, available wherever
there is sunlight.
 Solar PV systems can be installed almost anywhere and are well suited for
distributed power generation.
 The cost of solar panels has been decreasing rapidly, improving economic viability.
 The systems operate quietly and require very low maintenance because they have
no or few moving parts.
 They match well with peak energy use periods, especially in hot, sunny climates
where cooling demand is high.
 Solar PV can improve energy independence by reducing reliance on electricity
suppliers.
 Panels typically have a lifespan of 25+ years, maintaining 85-92% of their efficiency
after 25 years.
 Installation is straightforward, especially on rooftops, without interfering
significantly with daily life.

Disadvantages of Solar PV Systems:

 High initial investment costs can be a barrier despite declining prices.

 Solar energy production is weather and location dependent; cloudy days reduce
output.
 Energy storage solutions (like batteries) are often needed to ensure power
availability at night or during outages, adding to system complexity and cost.
 Efficiency of PV systems still has room for improvement, impacting overall
economic performance.
 They require sufficient space for installation, which can be limiting in dense urban
areas.
 There is a need for some level of expertise in installation and maintenance.
 Solar power depends entirely on sunlight intensity, making it less effective in
regions with limited sun exposure or shorter daylight hours.
Advantages of Diesel Generators:

 High fuel efficiency due to diesel's higher energy density, making them cost-effective
for long-term or high-demand use.
 Durable and reliable with a robust engine design capable of handling heavy
workloads and harsh environments.
 Require less maintenance compared to gasoline generators, as they have fewer
components like spark plugs and carburetors.
 Diesel fuel is safer to store due to lower flammability compared to gasoline.
 Can operate for longer periods, supporting large power loads with consistent
output.
 Do not depend on utility lines and provide independence in areas with unstable
power supply or during emergencies.
 Diesel fuel is widely available and can be stored on-site for backup power.
 Diesel engines typically have longer lifespans than gasoline engines.

Disadvantages of Diesel Generators:

 Higher initial purchase cost and potentially more expensive repairs due to complex
components.
 Noise pollution is a significant issue as diesel engines tend to be noisy, requiring
placement away from living or working areas.
 Diesel generators emit more greenhouse gases and particulates, contributing to
environmental pollution.
 They are heavy and bulky, limiting portability.
 Require regular maintenance to ensure reliability despite being lower than gasoline
engines.
 Fuel price increases and regulatory restrictions on emissions can drive operational
costs up.
 Components like fuel injectors can fail, leading to downtime and costly repairs.
4. Environmental Impact

Solar PV systems produce no emissions during operation, contributing to cleaner air and
reduced carbon footprint.

Solar PV System Environmental Effects:

 Solar PV systems produce clean energy by converting sunlight into electricity

without direct emissions of greenhouse gases or air pollutants during operation.
 They contribute to reducing carbon footprint and air pollution, helping mitigate
climate change.
 Manufacturing and disposal of solar panels involve energy use and materials that
can generate some environmental impact, including mining for raw materials and
waste management.
 They have minimal noise pollution and do not create hazardous waste during
operation.
 Overall, solar PV delivers substantial long-term environmental benefits by replacing
fossil fuel-based energy.

Diesel generators emit carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, which harm
the environment and human health.

Diesel Generator Environmental Effects:

 Diesel generators burn fossil fuel, emitting significant amounts of greenhouse gases
such as CO2 and air pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and
particulate matter that contribute to air pollution and health hazards.
 They produce noise pollution, often requiring sound mitigation measures.
 Diesel spills and leaks can contaminate soil and water.
 Their emissions contribute directly to climate change and local environmental
degradation.
 The lifecycle of diesel generators involves fuel extraction, refining, and
transportation, adding more indirect environmental impact.
 While efficient for power generation, their environmental footprint is substantially
higher than solar PV systems.
Show the global usage rate of solar systems by year
The global solar power capacity has experienced remarkable growth, surpassing 2
terawatts (TW) by late 2024. Record installations in 2024, coupled with projections for
continued expansion, highlight the increasing importance of solar energy in the global
energy mix. Asia, particularly China, plays a dominant role in this expansion. The surge in
capacity addition in the first half of 2025 further underscores the accelerating global shift
toward solar energy. As technology continues to improve and costs continue to decline,
solar power is poised to play an even greater role in meeting global energy demands and
mitigating climate change.

The 3.5 GW Midon solar plants (Urumqi, China's Xinjiang region)

China Green Development Group (CGDG), has switched on the 3.5 GW Midong PV farm in
Urumqi, China's Xinjiang region.
5. Cost Analysis (Example)

Initial Investment Operating Economics Long-Term Value

A 3 kW solar system costs Solar systems generate Solar PV systems last 20-25
approximately $1,695 before electricity at $0.083$0.09 years with government
subsidies, while a per kWh with minimal subsidies reducing initial
comparable 7 kVA diesel maintenance. Diesel costs. Diesel generators
generator runs just $173 generators cost $0.313$0.38 require replacement sooner
upfront. This dramatic per kWh, plus ongoing fuel and carry higher
difference often influences expenses and frequent environmental costs, making
initial purchase decisions repairs that accumulate over solar the clear winner for
time sustained savings.
Conclusion
After comparing solar PV systems and diesel generators, it is evident that both have their
advantages and limitations. Diesel generators offer immediate, reliable, and weather-
independent power, making them suitable for backup or emergency use. However, they
come with high operating costs, fuel dependency, frequent maintenance
requirements, and significant environmental impact.

In contrast, solar PV systems require a higher upfront investment but provide long-term
economic benefits due to minimal operating costs, low per-unit electricity cost, and
negligible fuel expenses. They are environmentally friendly, benefit from government
incentives, and have long lifespans of 20–25 years. Over time, solar systems offer greater
cost savings, sustainability, and reliability, making them a more cost-effective and
strategic solution for long-term power supply.

Recommendation: For sustainable energy planning, incorporating solar PV systems as the

primary power source, possibly combined with diesel generators for backup in critical
situations, provides the best balance between reliability, cost, and environmental
responsibility.