n-split generator model: An approach to reducing fuel consumption, LCC, CO2 emission and dump energy in a captive power environment

To overcome the challenge of poor load factor in a captive power generation environment, this paper proposes the Split-Diesel generator model instead of a large Single Diesel generator model. The Split Diesel generator model comprises of n-sized smaller units of Diesel generators whose aggregated power output is equal to that of a Single Diesel generator which would otherwise have been used to meet the load demand. The commitment of the split generator in meeting the load demand is achieved using a rule based controller. A case study was conducted using a typical 3 star hotel to compare the performance of the proposed Split Diesel generator model to a Single large Diesel generator model. The performance indices compared are lifecycle cost (LCC), net fuel consumption, net CO2emission, net dump energy and system reliability. The case study is simulated in Matlab™ environment to compare the proposed model to that of single large sized Diesel generator. The result of the comparison revealed that the Split Diesel generator model offered 26%, 27%, 27% and 85% reduction in LCC, net fuel consumption, net CO2 emission and net dump energy respectively. Furthermore, the Split Diesel generator model was found to offer improved system reliability.