United Rentals adds solar battery generators to fleet

United Rentals, Stamford, Conn., has agreed to purchase the new HIPOWER EHR solar battery generator from HIPOWER SYSTEMS, Olathe, Kan., for its rental fleet. United Rentals said it is the first equipment rental company to offer the mobile microgrid solution that boosts project sustainability by pairing a battery energy storage system with power provided by integrated photovoltaic solar panels and a propane generator.

Developed by HIPOWER in collaboration with United Rentals, the solar battery generator has a 5.0 kW peak solar array sitting atop the unit and features extendable panels. The array captures the sun’s energy and converts it to electric power, which is stored in the system’s batteries. The unit also has a 45 kVA generator that provides power running on propane.
The hybrid power solution is designed to minimize generator run time by storing energy in the battery system and running on battery power whenever possible. A smart grid controller turns on the generator when the batteries run low due to reduced sunlight or increased demand. Once sufficient battery charge is reached through sunlight and/or generator, the controller turns the generator off.

“The EHR solar battery generator is a game changer for companies that want to go to the next level of sustainability with higher energy efficiency to reduce job-site emissions and fuel use,” said Larry Worthington, vice president, PHVAC region, United Rentals. “The system can reduce emissions and noise levels to zero, making it an ideal fit for various applications, including urban, noise-sensitive environments.”

“As part of its commitment to providing a more electric equipment rental fleet, United Rentals is leading the way in offering on-site, sustainable charging stations to ensure customers can easily and efficiently recharge electric equipment,” said Rafael Acosta, president, HIPOWER. “They were an instrumental partner in helping us develop the EHR solar battery generator, a cutting-edge microgrid system that has the potential to revolutionize power generation and energy management.”