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Reliable backup and prime power solutions are essential for modern businesses. As organisations look for cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective alternatives to diesel, LPG (liquid petroleum gas) and natural gas generators are becoming increasingly popular.
Both fuel types offer advantages in terms of emissions, operational efficiency, fuel supply and long-term running costs. In this guide, we explore how each works, where they are best suited, and the key benefits to consider when specifying your next generator.
A natural gas generator runs on methane supplied either through a mains utility connection or via an on-site gas supply. Compared to diesel or petrol alternatives, natural gas systems can offer:
Lower emissions
Consistent fuel supply (where mains gas is available)
Reduced fuel storage requirements
Competitive operational costs
Natural gas generators are typically configured for either standby or prime power applications.
Standby generators are permanently installed systems designed to provide automatic backup power during mains failure. They are commonly used in:
Commercial buildings
Healthcare facilities
Manufacturing sites
Data centres
Because they connect directly to the gas network, they do not require on-site fuel storage. In the event of a power outage, the system starts automatically and runs until grid power is restored.
They are engineered for intermittent use rather than continuous operation, making them ideal for emergency backup scenarios.
Prime power generators are used when there is no reliable connection to the national grid, such as:
Remote industrial sites
Construction projects
Agricultural facilities
Off-grid developments
Prime-rated systems are designed for longer operating periods and variable load demands. A subset of these, continuous-rated generators, operate at a constant load for extended durations.
An LPG generator runs on liquid petroleum gas, typically propane or butane, stored in pressurised tanks. LPG systems are widely used across commercial and industrial environments due to having lower emissions compared to diesel, clean-burning properties, competitive fuel pricing, and flexible storage options.
Although both are gaseous fuels, they differ chemically and operationally:
Natural gas is primarily methane and is usually delivered via underground utility pipelines.
LPG is propane or butane stored in liquid form under pressure and delivered by tank.
Key technical differences include:
Energy density: LPG has a higher calorific value, meaning less fuel is required to generate equivalent heat output.
Storage: LPG requires on-site pressurised storage; natural gas typically does not (if connected to mains supply).
Combustion characteristics: The air-to-fuel ratio differs between the two gases, influencing engine configuration and performance.
The right choice depends on site infrastructure, fuel availability and operational requirements.
Reduced Risk of Fuel Theft & Spillage - Unlike diesel, LPG is stored under pressure and cannot be easily siphoned. There is also no risk of liquid fuel spills contaminating the surrounding area.
Cleaner Operation - LPG burns cleaner than many conventional fuels, resulting in lower particulate emissions and reduced carbon deposits within the engine. This can support longer service intervals and improved engine longevity.
Quieter Performance - Gas-powered generators generally operate more quietly than diesel equivalents, making them suitable for urban or noise-sensitive environments.
Flexible Refuelling - LPG can be delivered and stored on-site, making it suitable for locations without mains gas access.
Continuous Fuel Supply - Where mains gas is available, natural gas generators benefit from uninterrupted supply without the need for fuel deliveries or on-site storage.
Lower Emissions - Natural gas is one of the cleanest-burning fossil fuels. It produces significantly lower levels of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulates compared to diesel.
Simplified Compliance - Due to reduced emissions, permitting and environmental compliance can often be more straightforward compared to higher-emission fuel types.
Ideal for Permanent Installations - For facilities requiring reliable standby power with minimal fuel management, natural gas offers a convenient long-term solution.
Choosing between LPG and natural gas depends on several factors:
Is mains gas available on-site?
Is the system for standby or continuous use?
What are the site’s emissions requirements?
What are the long-term fuel cost projections?
Is on-site fuel storage practical?
Both options provide reliable, efficient alternatives to diesel-powered systems, particularly where lower emissions, reduced noise and simplified fuel management are priorities.
LPG and natural gas generators each offer clear advantages in terms of:
Power reliability
Fuel efficiency
Emissions reduction
Operational flexibility
The most suitable solution depends on your application, infrastructure and long-term energy strategy.
If you are considering a gas-powered generator for your site, speaking with our experienced engineering team can help ensure the specification matches your operational needs.
