Diesel Generator Fuel Consumption Calculator

Understanding Diesel Generator Fuel Consumption

This calculator helps you estimate the fuel consumption of diesel generators based on their size and load level.

How Fuel Consumption is Calculated

Diesel generators consume fuel based on three key factors:

• Generator Size: The power rating in kW or kVA.
• Load Percentage: The percentage of the generator's capacity being used.
• Specific Fuel Consumption Rate: Typically ranges from 0.2 to 0.5 L/kWh, depending on load.

The formula for hourly fuel consumption is:

Hourly Fuel (L/h) = Generator Power (kW) × Load Factor × Consumption Rate (L/kWh)

kVA to kW Conversion

Generators are rated in both kVA (apparent power) and kW (real power):

• kW = kVA × Power Factor (typically 0.8 for generators)
• kVA = kW ÷ Power Factor

Typical Fuel Consumption Rates

Load Level	Fuel Consumption Rate (L/kWh)
1/4 Load (25%)	0.4
1/2 Load (50%)	0.3
3/4 Load (75%)	0.27
Full Load (100%)	0.25

Example Calculation

For a 60 kW generator at 75% load with a fuel consumption rate of 0.27 L/kWh:

Hourly Fuel = 60 kW × 0.75 × 0.27 L/kWh = 12.15 L/h