


Adaptation & Resiliency Toolbox
Backup Power/Generator Supply

What is it?
The concept of resilience, when applied to facilities, calls for consideration of how the facility will function during and after a disaster. Code-mandated emergency power systems are not required to operate a station’s key functions. As such, stations may require additional emergency power to operate during and after an emergency. Fossil fuel powered generators are reliable and typically used for building power generation in case of an outage. This measure focuses on these types of back-up power generators specifically.


What assets can be protected?


Project Phase?
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Planning
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Design
Implementation Time?
Near Immediate Use
Useful Life?
20-25 Years
(Depending on run hours of unit(s))
Preliminary Costs?
$$$$
Commercial Generators -
$300-$500 per kW required
Benefits

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Uninterrupted power service at critical MDOT MTA assets/locations
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Variety of types for required uses (portable, inverter, standby)
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Potential cross-over for redundancy to critical equipment
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Some variability in the fuel used to run the generator
Limiting Factors

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Extensive planning/design efforts for proper sizing, installation and maintenance
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Fuel-powered generators must have fuel sources on-hand
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Generator must be reasonably close to electrical connection(s)
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Associated negative impacts on air quality (emissions), noise
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Space requirements to ensure correct cooling and air flow for generator
Learn More
The Quick Reference Guide provides a detailed summary available for printing and additional information for future reference.
External References
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National Electric Code (NEC) - National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 70 (2014) - Subscription required for access
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NFPA 110 (Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems) - Subscription required for access
