100KW at 480 volts is indeed substantial power. If it's essential for your needs, then it's a wise investment. For example, I utilize a 22KW generator that operates seamlessly during power outages, rarely coming off idle unless all systems are in use. However, in regular daily operations, it consumes fuel sparingly, almost like an efficient machine.

I often reflect on the past when we used a GE turbine generator that efficiently switched between various loads. During a power drop, the system automatically engaged the turbine and sequentially switched loads via contactors. Although I wasn't directly involved in electrical operations, our emergency procedures often overlapped with electrical protocols. The generator switched from shore power to turbine mode smoothly, one circuit at a time.

When we brought systems back online, we had to carefully drop all loads to avoid phase complications. This scenario happened once, after which the team automated the whole process. Ironically, it took weeks to address burnt-out contactors. Had someone been present, that situation could have turned hazardous. The operator who initiated that switch ultimately decided to resign and seek employment elsewhere.

Personally, if I were to power two significant loads like this, I would cut and secure the shore power input first, activate the generator, then power both loads. When shore power resumes, I would take both loads offline from the generator, lock it out, and switch both back to shore power. While this may seem time-consuming, safety must always come first.

Clearing up Generator Confusion: Understanding Kilowatts and Kilowatt-Hours

• Thread starter

  Qaiphyx

• Start date

  Mar 30,

• Tags

  Confused Generators

In essence, our discussion revolves around confusion regarding generators and the method that power companies utilize for electricity pricing. For example, a typical 100kW generator generates electricity at a cost of about 7 cents per kWh. A kWh is a measure of energy, while a kW is a measure of power. We provided calculations illustrating that using a generator for an entire month could lead to varied costs, influenced by complicated factors in commercial electric bills such as load factor and demand. Furthermore, we covered topics like fuel consumption and operational costs to run generators, specifically contrasting propane and natural gas. The conversation also touched upon cogeneration and the possibility of selling back excess power to the grid.