For decades, diesel generators have been a familiar “makeshift” solution for backup power needs of businesses in Vietnam. However, with the advancement of technology, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are emerging as a more modern, efficient and sustainable alternative.
So, between a traditional solution and a futuristic technology, which is the better choice for your business? This article will put BESS and diesel generators on the scale in a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed investment decision.
Comprehensive Comparison Chart: BESS vs. Diesel Generators
A Deeper Analysis of the Determinants
1. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) – The Long-Term View
While diesel generators have lower initial capital expenditure (CAPEX), this is only part of the story. The operating expenditure (OPEX) of a generator is a huge and unpredictable financial burden, and includes:
- Fuel costs: Diesel prices in Vietnam fluctuate constantly, making budgeting difficult.
- Maintenance costs: Diesel engines require costly periodic maintenance to ensure reliable operation.
In contrast, BESS has virtually negligible operating costs. When considering total cost of ownership (TCO) over the life of the project, BESS often proves to be a more economical investment.
2. Power Supply Reliability and Quality
For modern production lines and sensitive equipment, even a single second of power interruption can cause major damage.
- BESS: Provides near-instant backup power (under 20 milliseconds), acting as a large-scale uninterruptible power supply (UPS), ensuring no interruptions. The power supply is also clean and stable.
- Generator: A delay is required to start up and reach steady state. This “dead” time is enough to cause system failure and stop production.
3. Environmental Impact and Social Responsibility (ESG)
As Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards become increasingly important, the use of diesel generators is becoming a major drawback.
- Generator: Causing air pollution due to CO2 emissions and other toxic gases, and serious noise pollution, affecting the working environment and surrounding community.
- BESS: Operating completely silently and with zero emissions on site, it is a clean energy solution, helping businesses improve their brand image and meet “green” export standards.
4. Flexibility and Versatility
Diesel generators essentially have only one function: to provide backup power. Meanwhile, BESS is a multi-purpose energy asset:
- In addition to being a backup source, BESS can be used daily to save on electricity costs by charging during off-peak hours and discharging during peak hours.
- It can seamlessly integrate with solar power systems to store clean energy, enhancing autonomy.
Conclusion: Which option is right for your business?
Diesel generators may still be suitable for applications requiring very long-term (multiple days) backup power in extremely remote areas.
However, for most modern industrial and commercial enterprises, BESS is a superior solution in every way.: more economical in the long term, more technically reliable, more environmentally friendly and more flexible in operation. Investing in BESS is not only about solving the backup energy problem, but also a strategic step towards an efficient, sustainable and future-ready business model.
