Powering construction sites: reducing carbon footprint and improving comfort with mobile energy solutions

Modern storage technologies now offer innovative solutions to address these challenges. These new approaches are transforming the power supply to construction sites, combining performance and sustainability.

What are the current challenges of power supply on construction sites?

Energy is essential on construction sites, even before they are connected to the electricity grid. The reliability of the energy sources that must power the various tools and equipment on construction sites is essential: power outages can cause costly delays. Flexibility is also crucial, as energy needs vary considerably depending on the phases of the construction site. Costs represent another major challenge, with fluctuations in fuel prices directly impacting budgets. In addition, environmental and safety regulations are becoming increasingly strict, requiring constant adaptation. Some cities are restricting or soon banning (this is the case in Paris) the use of thermal generators in public spaces.

Faced with these multiple challenges, the construction sector is looking for alternative solutions to generator sets, while remaining vigilant on the main expectations: power, versatility, cost control.

What solutions for better energy efficiency?

The adoption of advanced storage and usage technologies on construction sites offers significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction.

Modern power systems, such as high-capacity batteries, allow for more precise energy management. Unlike traditional generators that often operate continuously, these systems can adjust their production according to the actual needs of the construction site. This optimization of operation can significantly reduce energy consumption on construction sites.

The integration of renewable or decarbonized energies is another major lever. The French energy mix that powers storage systems makes it possible to considerably reduce dependence on fossil fuels. By partially or completely replacing thermal generators with clean solutions, construction sites can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. The life cycle analysis conducted by Instagrid, a leading industrialist in the sector, shows that CO2 emissions can be reduced by more than 90% compared to a traditional system based solely on combustion generators.

How to improve safety and working comfort on construction sites?

The adoption of new power supply technologies on construction sites is not limited to environmental benefits. It also contributes significantly to improving the safety and comfort of workers.

One of the most tangible benefits is the reduction of cable-related risks. The use of mobile power supply systems can significantly reduce the number of cables on the ground on construction sites. The reduction in cabling thanks to new power solutions significantly reduces the risk of falls on construction sites and the number of accidents.

Another major benefit is the reduction in noise pollution. Traditional generators are a major source of noise pollution on construction sites, with an average noise level of 80 to 100 decibels, often exceeding comfort thresholds and even posing risks to workers' hearing. In comparison, battery systems are virtually silent. The drastic reduction in noise not only improves the comfort of workers but also that of local residents, a crucial issue for construction sites in urban areas.

Finally, eliminating local pollutant emissions is a significant step forward for worker health. Diesel generators emit harmful exhaust gases, including fine particles and nitrogen oxides, which can have a negative impact on health, particularly in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. Battery-based power solutions emit no pollutants on site, contributing to healthier air on the job site.

Case Study: Instagrid ONE Power Station

To illustrate these advances in concrete terms, let's take the example of the battery Instagrid ONE, available on the French market. This high-capacity battery has been specially designed to meet the needs of construction sites.

With a capacity of 2,1 kWh, it is sufficient to power many construction tools (some examples of autonomy: 4100 cuts with a 3000 W circular saw, 7,5 tonnes of concrete slabs broken with a 2200 W jackhammer, 32 150 mm holes in concrete with a 3300 W diamond core drill, etc.).

Its output power reaches 3600 W and can reach up to 18000 W peak. The recharge time of less than 3 hours on a standard socket ensures daily use without interruption. Weighing approximately 20 kg, it is easily transportable with one hand. Instagrid ONE can be used in all weather conditions (IP54 rating). In addition, its intelligent management system allows real-time monitoring of consumption and location.

The results of its use are convincing: in many cases, Instagrid ONE has completely transformed the way users work. In the construction sector, its compact dimensions allow users to transport their power supply in tight spaces such as crane baskets, something that is impossible to do with traditional generators. In the film industry, Instagrid ONE allows users to avoid miles of cables traditionally used on film sets.

Furthermore, Instagrid has just launched its latest innovation: Instagrid LINK. This smart coupler allows users to connect multiple power sources together, seamlessly switching between them and increasing overall capacity. Instagrid LINK extends the power of Instagrid’s flagship Instagrid ONE to 6,3 kWh and enables powerful new applications in industries such as events, film and media, construction and emergency services.

This modular system allows up to three portable power units to be connected and seamlessly switched between them. Users benefit from longer runtimes and the confidence that power will not be interrupted during critical applications, such as powering communications equipment during an emergency operation or operating a mixing console during a live concert.

Instagrid LINK can also be used to connect a portable battery-based power supply to the mains to provide critical power.

The combined benefits: efficiency, durability and comfort

Adopting modern power solutions like Instagrid ONE offers a wide range of benefits. There is a significant reduction in operational costs, with less fuel and maintenance expenses (-80% operating costs over the product life cycle). The use of decarbonized power sources contributes significantly to construction companies’ commitments to sustainable construction practices. These solutions also help anticipate future stricter environmental standards, ensuring long-term regulatory compliance. Productivity on construction sites is increased thanks to a quieter and healthier working environment. Finally, operational flexibility is significantly improved, with ease of movement and adaptation to different phases of the construction site.

Conclusion

Power supply to construction sites is at a turning point. Solutions based on renewable energy and advanced storage technologies offer a convincing answer to the challenges of energy efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, safety and working comfort. The benefits in terms of costs, sustainability and working conditions are undeniable. For companies in the construction sector, investing in these technologies is no longer just an ecological option, but a strategic choice to remain competitive and responsible in a rapidly changing market.

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