REIC Specialty conducted an in-depth comparison between solar hybrid light towers (HLTs) and traditional diesel-powered light towers (specifically the Wacker LTV4 and Allmand 6KW models). The study was designed around a 28-day rental cycle using two units of each type. Real-world telemetry data was analyzed to capture operating hours, fuel use, and maintenance demands, providing a fair and accurate basis for evaluation.
The assumptions guiding this study included monthly rental rates of CA$1,500 for hybrid towers and CA$1,200 for diesel towers. Fuel costs were calculated at CA$1.50 per litre, and labour was valued at CA$70 per hour. Oil change frequency was also factored in, with hybrid towers requiring only 0.3 changes per cycle, compared to 1.5 for diesel towers. Average engine runtime provided a critical point of differentiation: hybrid towers operated for roughly 2.1 hours per day, while diesel towers ran nearly six times longer at around 12 hours per day.
Graph: The graph shows a cost breakdown of daily cost, measured in CAD.
One of the most striking findings of this study is the significant difference in daily operating costs. Hybrid towers consistently cut operating costs by approximately 50% compared to diesel models. While diesel towers consumed large amounts of fuel and required labour and oil changes, hybrid towers almost entirely eliminated these expenses.
Graph: The graph shows the cumulative cost for two units over 28 days, measured in CAD.
When evaluated across the entire 28-day rental cycle, the cost advantage of hybrid towers becomes even more pronounced. By the end of the period, two hybrid units accumulated operating costs of around CA$3,300, while diesel units reached between CA$6,700 and CA$7,000. This translates into a monthly savings of approximately CA$3,500 when opting for hybrid towers instead of diesel alternatives.
The difference grows steadily over time, and the linear growth of expenses underscores the widening gap in operating costs, making the financial benefits of hybrid towers increasingly compelling—especially for companies deploying multiple units on large-scale projects.
Graph: The graph shows fuel consumption over 28 days, measured in litres of fuel.
Fuel consumption is another area where hybrid towers deliver remarkable advantages. During a 28-day rental period, hybrid towers used only about 170 litres of diesel, compared to the 1,700 to nearly 2,000 litres consumed by traditional diesel towers. This dramatic reduction—more than 90% less fuel—not only cuts operating costs but also minimizes the logistical burden of frequent refueling.
For clients, this means less downtime, fewer supply runs, and a clear path toward more efficient and sustainable operations.
Graph: The graph shows CO₂ emissions over a 28-day cycle, measured in kg of CO₂.
This dramatic decrease in fuel demand directly translates into lower carbon emissions. Diesel towers generated around five tonnes of CO₂ per cycle, whereas hybrid towers reduced this figure to less than half a tonne per cycle. The result is a meaningful avoidance of roughly 4.5 tonnes of CO₂ emissions every month.
Hybrid towers provide a simple, measurable solution for companies seeking to reduce their environmental footprint while keeping costs under control.
Cost Savings
Hybrid towers deliver substantial financial advantages by cutting daily operating costs by roughly 50% compared to diesel models. Over the course of a 28-day rental cycle, this translates into savings of approximately CAD$3,500 per pair of towers. These savings multiply quickly for projects requiring multiple units or extending over several months, offering a compelling case for switching to hybrid technology.
Hybrid towers allow companies to free up resources for other critical operational needs by lowering costs significantly without compromising performance.
Fuel and Emissions Efficiency
Hybrid towers consume only about 170 litres of diesel per cycle, compared to more than 1,700 litres required by diesel towers. This remarkable reduction in fuel use—over 90%—directly impacts costs and sustainability. By lowering consumption to such an extent, hybrid towers help avoid more than four tonnes of CO₂ emissions per cycle, dropping total emissions from roughly five tonnes to just half a tonne.
Hybrid towers offer clients a clear and practical solution aiming to cut operating expenses while demonstrating measurable progress toward environmental goals.
Operational Efficiency
Hybrid technology also simplifies day-to-day operations. With minimal engine runtime, hybrid towers require far less maintenance and no routine oil changes. This means fewer interruptions for servicing, fewer refueling trips, and reduced noise pollution on-site.
These efficiencies save time for crews, minimize downtime, and ultimately improve project productivity.
Safety Improvements
Finally, hybrid towers contribute to a safer work environment. Because they require fewer refueling trips, workers spend less time handling fuel and interacting with equipment. This reduces the likelihood of slips, trips, falls, and fuel spills—common risks associated with diesel-powered units.
A safer worksite not only protects staff but also reduces liability for project managers.
The findings of this case study highlight the clear financial, environmental, and operational advantages of solar hybrid light towers over traditional diesel models. By lowering costs, reducing emissions, simplifying operations, and improving safety, hybrid towers provide a superior solution that benefits project performance and corporate responsibility.
For clients seeking smarter, more sustainable alternatives, the hybrid light tower represents an investment that pays for itself in the short and long term.
Contact REIC Specialty today to learn how solar hybrid light towers can transform your project costs, sustainability performance, and on-site safety.
