Abstract: A distributed power generating system enables very rapid and reliable start-up of an engine used to generate back-up power, thereby substantially reducing the need for stored power. More particularly, the distributed power generating system comprises a power bus electrically coupled to commercial power and to a load, an engine comprising a rotatable shaft, a starter/generator operatively coupled to the shaft of the engine and electrically coupled to the power bus, and a temporary storage device electrically coupled to the power bus. The starter/generator is adapted to start the engine from a standstill condition and rapidly bring the engine to an operational speed sustainable by the engine alone. In an embodiment of the invention, the power generating system further includes a plurality of redundant fuel tanks each containing liquid fuel, such as propane, at a respective initial pressure level.

Abstract: A distributed power generating system enables very rapid and reliable start-up of an engine used to generate back-up power, thereby substantially reducing the need for stored power. More particularly, the distributed power generating system comprises a power bus electrically coupled to commercial power and to a load, an engine comprising a rotatable shaft, a starter/generator operatively coupled to the shaft of the engine and electrically coupled to the power bus, and a temporary storage device electrically coupled to the power bus. The starter/generator is adapted to start the engine from a standstill condition and rapidly bring the engine to an operational speed sustainable by the engine alone. In an embodiment of the invention, the power generating system further includes a plurality of redundant fuel tanks each containing liquid fuel, such as propane, at a respective initial pressure level.

Abstract: A distributed power generating system enables very rapid and reliable start-up of an engine used to generate back-up power, thereby substantially reducing the need for stored power. More particularly, the distributed power generating system comprises a power bus electrically coupled to commercial power and to a load, an engine comprising a rotatable shaft, a starter/generator operatively coupled to the shaft of the engine and electrically coupled to the power bus, and a temporary storage device electrically coupled to the power bus. The starter/generator is adapted to start the engine from a standstill condition and rapidly bring the engine to an operational speed sustainable by the engine alone. To accomplish this, the starter/generator has a short time torque capability higher than the rated torque of the engine and starter/generator. When the engine reaches the operational speed, the starter/generator delivers electrical power to the power bus.