Due to the recent frequency of storms which interrupt our public power service, there might be more gasoline and diesel generators per household in the Caribbean than anywhere else in the world. For this project, there are many aspects of gasoline and diesel generators that can be found in the literature.

However, there is plenty of local research that could be done using data collected here in the islands. Efficiency is an example. Generators use fuel when running, even if there is no electrical usage. A family that runs the generator only when water is being heated and the refrigerator is running will use the generator more efficiently than if they leave the generator running at all times. A research project could involve interviews with families with generators. By recording estimates of the average fuel consumption and appliance use, the actual cost per kWhr could be estimated.

Among the things you may wish to include your report are:

• An outline of the components in a gasoline or diesel generator.
• The "advertised" cost per kWhr for various generators.
• The actual costs based upon surveys of fuel consumption and appliance usage.
• The durability and repair costs for various generators.
• What is the cost feasibility of using a generator to power an apartment complex?
• What are the safety considerations, both personal and for household appliances?

There following sites provide some technical information, but

• A few commerical sites that amy provide information upon request are
  • Sweinhart Electric
  • MajorPower.com
  • Voltmaster

• Solar Alaska with some discussion of efficiency and life expectancy. The Just In Time site has some discussion of China diesel generators

• A commerical site with safety tips, a Star News safety article, and Safety news from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Standard search engines for your own search.

• All The Web

• Lycos

• Ask Jeeves

• Yahoo

• Alta Vista