The Cannabis Industry Is Exploding! How ‘High’ Will Sales Go? Power Is Key!
The cannabis industry is growing at a fast rate throughout the United States. Analysts estimate the market at $13.6 billion and note that it provides 340,000 jobs dedicated to handling the plants.
As the cannabis industry grows, the need for energy-efficient systems for grow operations keeps rising.
This industry continues to move towards off-grid energy solutions to fulfill energy requirements. This is where Generator Source’s large inventory of new, surplus, and used industrial generators comes to market. The need for reliable off-grid power solutions is a problem the cannabis industry will continue to have. Luckily, Generator Source offers simple, cost-effective solutions to all customers.
Cannabis grow rooms have found a specific interest in high-power used industrial generators to help support plant growth in controlled environments. Cannabis has quickly become a very valuable crop in the United States.
The plant requires specific growing conditions in order to prosper. Equipment like fans, lights, and humidity devices must be properly running in order to grow the crop, and on-grid power solutions commonly cannot get the job done. Thus, cannabis grow room owners turn to surplus and used industrial generators from Generator Source for a solution.
Industrial Generators Key for Grow Rooms
Construction of cannabis grow rooms is a large investment to get up and running. If the grow room doesn’t have sufficient backup power installed, you run a high risk of losing the entire operation’s yield.
Power outages and grid failures are nearly impossible to predict and can occur at any time. The only solution during such hardships is to have a surplus or used industrial generator installed at the facility.
By installing off-grid backup power, the business reduces its risk. This keeps operations running and increases the chance of making a profit. In parts of the country with good electricity and few outages, there are still risks of losing power from bad weather.
Additionally, regular voltage fluctuations can lead to serious damage to your electrical equipment. Repair and replacement costs can be very high. Therefore, it is smart to invest in a reliable backup generator from Generator Source. This can help you avoid these costs.
Buying a Grow Room Industrial Generator
Grow room industrial generators come with a lot of variety. To help your cannabis business run smoothly, Generator Source suggests focusing on these key elements. This will make sure your used industrial generator powers your grow room well.
Generator Size
Your industrial generator’s size is a critical feature when you set up the grow room. You need to invest in a used generator that provides adequate power to your entire electrical system.
If your generator does not produce enough power, you may face mechanical problems and higher maintenance costs. This happens because you are overworking the generator.
Smaller new or used generators tend to break down more often. We recommend buying equipment that meets your power needs. However, investing in a slightly more powerful generator is a wise business choice.
Fuel Type
Many different types of fuel can be used by new and used industrial generators. For example, equipment can run on diesel, natural gas, or propane. We recommend considering the following parameters when selecting your generator:
- Federal and State Regulations
- Local Emissions
- Fuel Cost
- Portability
- Distance between the engine and fuel source
- Fuel Availability
Gasoline Surplus or Used Industrial Generators
Industrial generators that run on gasoline are the most common type of fuel. The equipment comes in a variety of sizes and the performance is reliable. This fuel type is also good for portable generators. Gasoline is easy to find in most places around the world.
Diesel Used Generators
Diesel generators are the most efficient pieces of equipment out there. Diesel fuel lasts up to three times longer than gasoline and it is considered a safer option. Thus, for heavy-duty industrial generators, diesel engines are the preferred choice.
Portability
Portable generators are designed for construction work and work sites. When it comes to your grow room, you’re better off investing in a new or used fixed standby industrial generator. Most grow room generators are heavy and provide a lot of power. This makes it hard to move your industrial generator.
Additionally, using a fixed standby generator means that your electrical connections can be permanent. This helps you design the grow room in an optimal way for maximum production.
Story Summary
What size generator do I need for a cannabis grow room?
The size of the generator needed depends on your total power requirements. Calculate the wattage of all your lights, fans, pumps, and other equipment. Add 20-30% for startup surges. Common sizes range from 20-100 kW for small to medium operations. Larger commercial grows may need 200 kW or more.
What type of fuel is best for grow room generators?
Diesel generators are most common due to their efficiency and durability. Natural gas generators are also popular as they produce fewer emissions. Gasoline generators work for smaller setups but are less efficient for continuous use.
How much fuel will a grow room generator use?
Fuel consumption varies based on load and generator size. As a rough estimate, a 50 kW diesel generator running at 75% load uses about 3-4 gallons per hour. Larger generators can use 5-10+ gallons per hour at full load.
Are generators noisy? How can I reduce noise?
Generators can be quite loud, often 70-100 decibels. To reduce noise:
- Use sound-attenuated enclosures
- Install mufflers and sound baffles
- Place the generator away from work areas
- Build a separate generator room with soundproofing
How often does a grow room generator need maintenance?
Regular maintenance is crucial. Typical schedules include:
- Daily checks of fluid levels and general condition
- Oil and filter changes every 250-500 hours
- More extensive service every 1000-2000 hours
- Major overhaul at 12,000-30,000 hours
Can I use a generator as my primary power source?
Yes, generators can be used for prime power in off-grid locations. However, running constantly increases wear and fuel costs. Many growers use generators for backup power and supplement with grid electricity when available.
What are the main advantages of using generators for grow rooms?
- Independence from the power grid
- No suspicious utility records of high-power usage
- Ability to locate grows in remote areas
- Consistent power for sensitive equipment
- Backup power during outages