We should probably start out by defining 'storm running'. What is storm running? Storm running is the exercise of running standby power generation in anticipation of severe weather, before an electrical outage actually occurs.
No person or business should ever be surprised by severe weather these days. Between weather radios, more effective forecasting, text alerts and weather apps for just about any Android phone-communication is constant and instantaneous. You know when a storm is approaching about 90% of the time and have some time to plan.
Consider operating your existing standby power generation for storm running purposes. First, define what circumstances would prompt the operation of the power generation. Consider what the cost to your business would be if you experienced an outage caused by an electrical disturbance? What would you consider the minimum power load needed to keep your critical systems running during an outage?
Lightning strikes do not need to be directly overhead to cause damage to a production facility, data center or commercial business. Power outages can last seconds, to minutes, to hours and even days. A dip in power may cause as much damage as a surge in power to electronic equipment.
It is generally recommended to use the standby power generation as a preventative measure and power up the generator prior to the storm's approach. This will separate from the utility and operate in an "island" mode for a period of time, until the danger of power outage has passed. Then the facility can be transferred back to the usual utility feed.
Fuel for standby power generation can be costly, especially for longer periods of time. The cost of the fuel should be weighed against the cost of the lost production time and the possible loss of equipment. Words of caution-do not delay keeping your fuel stock fill! Emergencies happen and you should be ready for them at any time!
Another consideration is environmental regulations in areas that could restrict the time a generator may be used. Be sure to know these time parameters before an emergency happens. Find out if you need a permit or if you need to notify any particular agency or person prior to storm running.
There are times when you will need to run to turn on your standby power generation at a moment's notice or even after you lose power. The key is to be prepared. Periodically test your standby power and keep your fuel tanks full.
by Ervin Root
Senior Electrical Engineer
Industrial Energy Applications, Inc. is an energy services company specializing in energy infrastructure projects behind the customer's utility meter. Our preferred business model is to build, own, operate and maintain assets for customers on their sites, but we are willing to do turn-key projects and to operate and maintain assets owned by the customer. Our target customers are in the industrial and large commercial space.
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