How to Plan Temporary Power for a Large Event: A Complete Generator Planning Guide

Events require an adequate power source to power lighting systems, sound systems, cooling systems, LED screens, food stands, security systems, and other devices. In case the venue lacks enough electrical infrastructure, portable generators can be used to power the system. But then again, it is crucial to plan properly to ensure that everything works well throughout the event.

 

1. List All Power Requirements

The first task should be the creation of a list of all equipment which needs to be powered by electricity. These can be such devices like lighting fixtures, sound system, LED screens, air conditioning system, catering equipment, refrigerators, security devices, computers, charging stations and exhibit booths.

Power requirements of each item should be stated in watts, kilowatts or kVA.

 

2. Calculate Total Load

Once the equipment has been identified, it is important to calculate the total load. The total load can be calculated in terms of normal load and start-up load. One should note that this calculation cannot be based on the normal load only. In certain cases, additional load might be needed during the start-up.

Start-up loads are very important to calculate, because this allows us to avoid generator overload, voltage changes, and frequent interruptions. It would be wise to leave some capacity for the generator and not run it at full capacity.

 

3. Choose the Capacity of the Generator

The capacity of the generator is measured in kVA. Thus, we should select the generator according to our load, start-up, power factor and conditions.

In the case of large events, two or more generators might be used for power supply. They can be connected in parallel.

 

4. Plan Electrical Distribution

Selection of the generator is not the sole component of temporary power planning. The power needs to be distributed from the generator in a safe manner to various parts of the event venue.

Planning for electrical distribution should involve the appropriate cables, distribution panels, earthing, proper circuit protection, and load balancing. Cables should be laid properly in places where people are walking or movement of the vehicles takes place.

 

5. Planning for Backup Power

The failure of the power supply in the course of any big event may impact the critical functioning of the process. Thus, having a backup power generator or a standby capacity for any event is necessary.

Critical installations like emergency lighting, security systems, communication systems, and technical installations should be planned beforehand for priority in case of a power outage.

 

6. Consider Fuel and Hours of Operation

The fuel consumption will depend on the capacity of the generator, the load and the hours of operation. In case the event will last for a few hours or days, the fueling should be pre-planned.

Fuel management must meet the requirements of safety and must not affect the activities of the event.

 

7. Take into Account Generator Placement and Noise

Generator placement is necessary for both safety purposes and convenience. Generator must be placed in a ventilated place that is far from access of the public and areas where there might be exhaust emissions.

In case the generator produces noise, it can be replaced with a silent or acoustic generator.

 

8. Testing Before the Event

The entire temporary power setup should be tested and inspected before the event kicks off. This includes generators, cables, distribution panels, protective systems, earthing, and the equipment.

 

System testing under normal operational circumstances might reveal some problems before the event.

 

The process of planning temporary power supply for any event is more than choosing a generator. It includes load calculation, sizing of the generator, electrical distribution, backup power generation, fueling plan, safety considerations, and testing of the system before the event.

 

A well-planned temporary power setup will help event organizers use their equipment without problems.