Diesel generator
Cost of generating electricity
Cost of generating electricity
------------------------------

### Typical operating costs

Fuel consumption is the major portion of diesel plant owning and operating costs for power applications, whereas capital cost is the primary concern for backup generators. Specific consumption varies, but a modern diesel plant will, at its near\-optimal 65\-70% loading, generate at least 3 kWh per liter (ca. 30% fuel [efficiency ratio](/wiki/Efficiency_ratio "Efficiency ratio")).


What other factors contribute to the cost of generating electricity besides fuel consumption and capital cost?