Whether you have a diesel generator, a bi-fuel generator, or even a tri-fuel generator, an empty tank will turn off the lights and idle your operations. Without question, choosing the right fuel(s) type is essential for ensuring operational continuity. Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists offers many types of standby generators and it is our pleasure to help you select the system that runs on the fuels best suited for your needs.

Bi-Fuel Generators

Bi-fuel generators are configured to operate on two different types of fuel. They typically run with diesel or gasoline as the primary fuel type, coupled with propane or natural gas as a  secondary fuel. Bi-fuel generators give operators considerable flexibility and help shield operations from fluctuations in fuel supply. In fact, many companies use bi-fuel generators as a cost-saving measure that allows them to purchase one fuel or the other when prices drop, and switch back as prices rise.

Dual Fuel Generators

Dual fuel generators are similar to bi-fuel generators, however, rather than operating on an either/or basis, dual fuel generators blend two different fuels together. Operators can adjust this mixture to suit their needs, whether that is increased power, reduced emissions, or to allow for the storage of less fuel in favor of the other. Dual fuel generators can be advantageous on mobile power generation equipment that's required to operate in different locations throughout the year. The flexibility can reduce operational costs, streamline logistics, and improve efficiency.

Tri-Fuel Generators

Often referred to as hybrid or multi-fuel systems, these generators allow you to burn practically anything to keep the generator operational. Well, almost anything. Tri-fuel generator systems allow users to burn liquid propane, natural gas, diesel, gasoline, and biodiesel. This gives operators significant flexibility and makes it easy to complete everything from routine tasks on the worksite to complex operations in challenging environments.

A Word of Caution About Fuel Storage & Disruptions

The advantage of bi-fuel, dual-fuel, and tri-fuel generators is that your operations are not dependent on one fuel type. However, this does not mean you shouldn't store sufficient fuel for your operations under the assumption that you can "get more" when a shortage or another emergency arises. In fact, when the power goes down, fuel supplies are kinked at the refinery, etc., this can cause a ripple effect that can reduce the availability of other fuels.

As such, we strongly recommend performing regular fuel audits to ensure you have sufficient fuel storage capacity to satisfy operational needs until any standard disruptions pass. While 2021 is shaping up to be a better year than last, there are whispers in the wind that fuel shortages may be just over the horizon and generator operators shouldn't ignore the possibility that the fuels they want will be more expensive and in short supply.

Do you have questions about the types of generators we recommend for your operations? Contact Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists at (800) 625-8324 and we'll help you select the system that's ideal for your operating conditions and business needs.