Why Hybrid Solar Generators Are the Future of Sustainable Power

Tuesday 21st January 2025

At countless construction sites across New Zealand, diesel generators have been the go-to solution for powering site offices, tools, and even the all-important smoko room. However, these generators often run inefficiently, burning through vast amounts of diesel while waiting for sporadic high-demand usage. Hybrid generators, such as those from Trime, offer a smarter, greener alternative that’s redefining the way we think about power generation.

What Are Hybrid Generators?

Hybrid generators work similarly to hybrid vehicles, combining traditional diesel power with a battery system. These generators prioritize battery power, switching to diesel only to recharge the battery or when demand spikes. Many models, like Trime's hybrid units, also incorporate solar panels for supplemental power, further reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.

Key Benefits of Hybrid Generators

Massive Diesel Savings

Traditional diesel generators can consume up to 1,000 liters of fuel per month, even during periods of low demand. Hybrid generators reduce engine run time by up to 90%, saving thousands in fuel costs annually.

For example, a Trime MGTP8000 hybrid generator used on a construction site reduced diesel consumption by over 70% compared to a traditional generator, saving more than 2000kg of CO₂ emissions in just 23 days.

Lower Maintenance Costs

With reduced engine hours, hybrid generators experience less wear and tear, resulting in lower maintenance costs and fewer service interruptions.

Reduced Emissions

By combining battery power and solar energy with diesel, these generators drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner, greener construction sites.

Quiet Operation

Ideal for noise-sensitive environments, hybrid generators can be programmed for "quiet hours," ensuring minimal disturbance during off-peak periods.

24/7 Reliable Power

Hybrid systems offer uninterrupted power, making them perfect for remote sites where security cameras, lights, and essential equipment must operate continuously.

Smart Monitoring and Control

Trime hybrid generators feature fully remote telemetry and data reporting, enabling users to monitor performance, perform remote troubleshooting, and basic operation from anywhere.

Where Hybrid Generators Shine

Hybrid generators excel in applications requiring long-term, 24/7 usage with fluctuating power demands. They are particularly effective in construction, mining, movie production and other industries where energy needs vary throughout the day.

For example, the Trime MGTP8000 can handle day-to-day tasks like powering tool sheds, lights, and smoko rooms while also ramping up for high-demand equipment like welders or grinders. Its efficient battery-diesel combination ensures optimal performance with minimal diesel consumption.

Trime Hybrid Generator Highlights

Trime MGTP8000

• 8kVA capacity with 6400W continuous AC power
• Kubota diesel engine with 200L bunded fuel tank
• Built-in solar panel for supplemental power
• Reduced noise at just 60dBA

Trime MGTP15000

• 15kVA capacity with 12,000W continuous AC power
• Yanmar diesel engine with 320L bunded fuel tank
• Advanced battery management and solar integration

Both models are designed with robust construction, fully galvanized and powder-coated bodies, and easy portability via forklift slots and central lifting eyes.

Why Choose Trime?

Trime has established itself as a leader in hybrid generator technology, offering innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability without compromising performance. With features like Victron solar and battery management systems, programmable quiet hours, and extensive remote monitoring, Trime hybrid generators deliver superior efficiency and convenience.

Trime Hybrid Solar Case Study

"Previously we had been using a 15kVa Kubota Diesel Unit that ran for 5-6 Hours a day and required refuelling every 2 days (worst case – sometimes longer!)"

Model: MGTP8000THS

Location: Dunedin City

Unit installed on: 09/01/24.

Date of Case Study: 09/5/24

Notes from installer:

Intermittent use since installation – but Generator has now been used consistently and has not been turned off since 11/02/24 (almost 3 months).

Generator is an 8000kva unit (8000w battery bank with 20kva Kubota powered generator)

The generator is powering a 20ft container tool shed (lights, tool chargers), Portacom with engineer + smoko room and occasional 240v grinder and inverter welder.

Key facts:

• Since 9/1/24 This generator has produced 129kWh of power
• 117kWh of this has been since 11/02/24 with 24/7 usage.
• 8.2kWh of this has been from Solar
• 87.4kWh from the battery bank
• Remaining 21.4kWh coming from the Diesel Generator itself
• On average, the generator has been starting up every night to charge up the battery bank for approx. 2 hours.
• Most of the consumption has just been from the battery.
• Since 11/02/24 The diesel generator has only done 36 Hours of running (auto mode 24/7)
• Contributing 142kWh of charging into the battery and the above mentioned 21.4kWh of direct use (approx. 70% of this direct use will be just any draw while it is charging the battery.)
• However, this has started up in the event of everything going at once (kettle, welder, microwave, grinder, lights etc.)

We have found that the amount of power we actually use consistently is remarkably low – around 400w most of the time.

Previously we had been using a 15kVa Kubota Diesel Unit that ran for 5-6 Hours a day and required refuelling every 2 days (worst case – sometimes longer)!

Bottom Line – based on a diesel price of 2.10/L we estimate that they have saved $890 in fuel costs from 11/02/24 to 26/02/24.

A Smarter Power Solution

Hybrid generators are more than a tool—they’re a step toward a more sustainable future. By combining diesel, battery, and solar technologies, they offer a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly power solution. For businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on fuel costs, Trime hybrid generators are the smart choice.

Ready to make the switch? Explore the range of Trime hybrid generators at OMC Power Equipment and discover how sustainable power can work for you.