Compare Solar vs Gas Generator Costs
How long do you typically run the generator each time
Current gas price in your area
Your home electricity rate for charging solar generators
Cost Calculation Methodology
Solar Generator (Battery + Solar System)
- Upfront cost: $1000 (typical 1000Wh system with solar panel)
- Charging cost: Battery capacity × uses/year × electricity rate
- Maintenance: Minimal - essentially $0/year
- Battery replacement: ~$400 after 10 years (LiFePO4 lasts 3000+ cycles)
Gas Generator
- Upfront cost: $500 (typical portable 2000W generator)
- Fuel consumption: ~0.25 gallons/hour at 50% load
- Fuel cost per use: Runtime × 0.25 gal/hr × Gas price
- Maintenance: Oil changes, spark plugs, air filters (~$100/year)
- Carburetor cleaning: $50-100 if not used regularly
Beyond Cost: Other Considerations
Solar Generator Advantages
- Silent operation
- Indoor safe (no fumes)
- Zero emissions
- No maintenance
- Can charge from sun (free energy)
- No fuel storage needed
- Longer lifespan (10+ years)
Gas Generator Advantages
- Higher continuous power output
- Unlimited runtime (with fuel)
- Lower upfront cost
- Better for high-wattage appliances
- Faster refueling vs recharging
- Better for construction sites