So I'm thinking again about the advantages/ disadvantages of a standard generator VS an induction generator as they apply to
reducing demand charges for my industrial 3 phase service.
It occurs to me that I have 2 choices with a standard generator:
1. Use it to power machines and the whole shop as far as the KW rating will go.
2. Use it only for base loads (lighting, boiler power, computer power,) and the stuff that's always a constant and known load.
Problem is, with the above loads, they will do little to affect my demand charges which increase based on what machinery I power up
during the course of the billing cycle. With industrial 3 phase service, the demand charges can be 50-70% of the total bill!
If I can't use a listeroid CHP setup to decrease my demand, there is no point to pursue it......which does not get me a Listeroid to play with, and therefore is not the fun result I am hoping for!
So.....question is.......with an INDUCTION generator, and using it to "push on the grid", and having it slow down the electric meter, that seems to be the way to reduce demand directly.
Slowing the electric meter is the only way to incur less demand charges without having a generator big enough to handle the total
shop load. (Not practical, and too much power for a Listeroid solution)
Anyone here successfully running an induction generator and slowing the meter? Is this legal?
What hardware is required? I have a 60 HP 3phase motor I could use as the induction generator.
Where can I read/ learn more about how to use a 3 phase motor as an induction generator?
I am also considering the use of a WABCO air brake compressor off of a road tractor, belted to the Listeroid, to supply a certain amount of compressed air to the shop air system. These units are made to run continuously all day long, and load/unload as needed.
Most common sizes are in the 5-10 cfm range, which is not a lot of air, but could be helping to fill the air receivers on the electric compressors "all day long". Why generate electricity -to run a motor....-to turn a compressor? Let the Listeroid turn the compressor directly and save conversion losses!
The Wabco units are water cooled, BUT they require oil pressure for lubrication, and I am not sure if the limited oil pressure from the listeroid oil system would be adequate........?
Induction Generator bad points:
1Down side to the I/G is that if the power goes out, it cannot (to my knowledge) be used as backup power.
And so goes the trade offs and dilemma.......
Appreciate your thoughts/ comments.....the battle for lower energy costs continues.....
dk