DATE: January 14, 2019
TO: Council Sustainability Committee
FROM: Director of Utilities & Environmental Services
SUBJECT
Diesel Backup Generators: Environmental Impacts and Feasibility of Alternatives
RECOMMENDATION
That the Committee reviews and comments on this report.
SUMMARY
Diesel generators are widely regarded as the obvious choice in emergency backup power because diesel is more reliable, powerful, and cost effective than alternatives like natural gas and battery-stored energy. It also allows for continuous operation in extended emergencies, which is why all 38 of the City’s stationary emergency backup generators are diesel-powered. While the reliability and cost-effectiveness of alternatives have improved dramatically in recent years, diesel remains the superior option for emergency backup generators. Additionally, due to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulatory stringency of diesel technology over the past two decades, today’s standard diesel fueled engines produce far fewer emissions than they once did. This report provides an overview of the landscape of today’s emergency power technology and assesses potential opportunities to improve the sustainability of our generator fleet without compromising power or reliability.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report