Aggreko: Cost pressure is rewriting construction’s energy playbook

The recommendation from global engineered energy and temperature solutions specialist Aggreko comes as rising fuel prices place operating margins under severe pressure.

With global fuel prices remaining volatile, the industry is being advised to adopt temporary decentralised energy within a hybrid system to avoid depending solely on diesel generators.

BESS store electricity when on-site energy usage is low and discharge it during peak times, reducing generator run hours and improving system efficiency. They also provide supplementary power far faster than gas or diesel generators, acting as a stopgap between the grid and other backup systems.

On-site applications include motor starts, powering tower cranes, welfare cabins, electric vehicle (EV) charging and warehouses.

Tom Adlington, sector sales manager, building services & construction at Aggreko, said: “Fuel prices have soared in recent months, impacting the operational budgets of construction sites and potentially threatening to derail project timelines.

“Integrating BESS into the on-site energy mix can help contractors reduce reliance on diesel and gain greater control over energy spend. Using them alongside Stage V generators running on hydrotreated vegetable oil, for example, also offers a clear route to energy-efficient emission reduction, helping the sector in its decarbonisation efforts.”

A recent Aggreko report, Building with BESS, demystifies common misconceptions attached to BESS and outlines the extent of the technology’s applications in the industry. It also highlights real-world scenarios, from efficient load management to overcoming grid challenges and scheduling power.

Mr Adlington added: “So much rests on a construction site having a robust power supply, yet various misconceptions surrounding BESS can deter construction managers, even if the solution may be the answer to challenges that they are facing.

“Outsourcing BESS from a specialist can enable decision-makers to harness the benefits of this technology without the barriers associated with purchasing permanent installations.”