BESS: Replacing Diesel Gensets with Green Power Backup

An article, authored by Ms. Akshi Jain – Assistant Manager, Sales at Mindra Group – highlighting the growing shift from traditional diesel generators to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as a more sustainable and reliable backup power solution, particularly in emerging markets like India.

BESS as a Game Changer

1. Environmental Sustainability

One of the most pressing concerns of our time is reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. DG sets are major contributors to air pollution and carbon emissions. They release carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter (PM), and Sulphur dioxide (SO₂), which can harm both the environment and public health.

In contrast, BESS operates without combustion. It stores energy—often from renewable sources like solar or wind—and delivers it when needed without producing direct emissions. Moreover, since BESS can connect with renewable energy systems, the electricity used for charging can be 100% green, helping operations move towards ‘Carbon Net Zero’.

2. Noise-Free Operation

Diesel generators are very noisy. The sound from a running generator can range from 75 to 100 decibels. This noise can be disruptive in residential areas, offices, hospitals, and schools. Even with soundproof enclosures, DG sets can still create vibrations and noise pollution, affecting comfort and health.

BESS, in contrast, operates almost silently. With no moving parts in the energy discharge process, noise is minimal—limited to auxiliary systems like cooling fans. This makes BESS ideal for urban environments, indoor installations, and noise-sensitive applications.

3. Lower Operating Costs

While DG sets may seem cheaper initially, their long-term operational costs are considerably higher. Diesel fuel prices are volatile and trend upward over time. Additionally, DG sets require frequent maintenance such as oil changes, fuel filter replacements, engine servicing, which adds to recurring expenses.

BESS requires significantly less maintenance. Over the system’s lifespan, the total cost of ownership (TCO) for BESS is often much lower than that of DG sets, especially when coupled with renewable energy sources that lowers grid electricity cost.

4. Rapid Response and Reliability

DG sets typically take 10–30 seconds to start and synchronize after a power outage. In critical applications like data centres, medical facilities, or manufacturing plants, even a few seconds of delay can cause disruptions, data loss, or equipment damage. BESS provides “seamless milli second transition” which makes it highly reliable for mission-critical applications where even momentary interruptions are not acceptable.

5. Scalability and Modularity

DG sets are designed for specific load requirements. If power needs increase, additional generators must be purchased, installed, and integrated, which can be expensive and space-intensive. Conversely, if demand decreases, an oversized DG set will run inefficiently, resulting in higher fuel consumption and wear.

BESS solutions are modular. Storage capacity can be expanded by simply adding more battery modules, allowing businesses to scale their backup capacity as they grow. This flexibility also makes sure the system stays efficient & optimized at various load levels.

6. Integration with Renewable Energy

One of the most significant advantage of BESS is its compatibility with renewable energy sources. DG sets rely solely on diesel fuel, which is limited, non-renewable, and environmentally damaging. BESS can be charged using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind turbines, or even during off-peak grid hours when electricity is cheaper.

7. Reduced Carbon Footprint for Regulatory Compliance

Governments and regulatory bodies are tightening emission standards for backup power systems. In many regions, DG sets must comply with stringent norms on emissions and noise, making them costlier to maintain and operate. Failure to comply can result in fines or operational restrictions.

BESS inherently meets these regulations because it produces zero local emissions and minimal noise. For organizations aiming to meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, switching to BESS ensures compliance and strengthens their sustainability credentials.

8. Space Efficiency

DG sets require fuel storage tanks, exhaust systems, soundproof enclosures, and adequate ventilation, which occupy a lot of space. This is often a challenge in urban and commercial settings where real estate is expensive. BESS can be installed indoors or outdoors, on rooftops, or even integrated into existing infrastructure. The modular nature of BESS further optimizes space utilization.

9. Grid Support and Ancillary Services

DG sets are primarily designed for backup power and cannot offer complex grid support functions. BESS, however, can perform multiple roles beyond backup, such as:

• Peak load management – Reducing demand charges by using stored energy during high-tariff hours.
• Frequency regulation – Helping stabilize the grid by responding instantly to fluctuations.
• Voltage support – Maintaining power quality for sensitive equipment.

This multi-functionality turns BESS from just a backup resource into an active energy management tool.

10. Cleaner and More Consistent Power Output

DG sets can lead to power quality issues such as voltage fluctuations, frequency instability, and harmonic distortions—especially under varying loads. These fluctuations can damage sensitive electronics and shorten the lifespan of connected equipment. BESS delivers clean, stable electricity with precise voltage and frequency control. This makes it ideal for data centers, laboratories, and manufacturing lines where power quality is critical.

The Future Belongs to BESS

The shift from DG sets to BESS is not just a technological upgrade—it is a strategic move towards a greener and more resilient energy future. As battery cost continue to fall and renewable energy adoption accelerates, BESS will replace DG sets in a wide range of applications.

As manufacturer of Advanced BESS solutions, we at Mindra Group are committed to accelerating this transition. Our containerized, modular, scalable, renewable and future-ready BESS platforms empower industries, businesses, and communities to break free from diesel dependency, reduce operational costs, and meet sustainability targets—all while providing uninterrupted power supply. Now is the time to move beyond diesel, and with BESS, the future of power is cleaner, smarter, and truly sustainable.

Also Read: BESS & Demand Response | What’s the Connection?