Solar generators are an excellent way to have additional energy on hand, whether you need to keep your lights on when the power goes out, or you want to charge your phone while camping.
But, in comparison to traditional gas-powered generators, how much does a solar generator cost? We examine how solar generators operate, their average costs, evaluate their benefits, and debate whether or not a solar generator is a good investment for you.
Keep on reading for our full breakdown of the range of solar generator prices.
Table of Contents
What Is a Solar Generator?
Let’s start with the basics.
A solar power generator is, technically, any system that operates on solar energy. However, most people think of a solar generator as a portable power station that generates energy using solar panels rather than fossil fuels.
A portable solar generator captures the sun’s energy using solar panels and then stores it in a battery for later use. Solar generators are often used for RV camping, boating, and as a backup power source in a power loss from the grid.
Solar Generator Cost: Exploring the Average Prices
Home generator sales have soared as the frequency of blackouts, and natural catastrophes such as hurricanes and ice storms have risen. However, most portable generators have the drawback of requiring a continuous fuel supply.
Solar generators capture the sun’s energy and store it when you need it. Solar-powered house generators perform similarly to gas-powered generators, but you won’t have to worry about the expense or inconvenience of refueling. You won’t miss the noise, odor, or danger of fire, either.
Solar-powered household generators are available in a range of sizes and capacities. This leads to a wide range of costs, ranging from $100 to tens of thousands of dollars.
If you’d instead take a shortcut and pick a high-quality generator, you’ll want to check out the Bluetti 2400wh solar generator.
Lower Range of Average Costs
you may purchase a modest “power pack” solar generator with 5 watts and 10 amp hours for about $100.
There are usually a few outlets, a USB port, and a DC socket on them. However, they don’t have a lot of power, and some versions take up to two days to charge. They also get negative feedback from customers.
You may purchase a 15-watt briefcase-style generator for small power gadgets such as mobile phones and laptops for $500.
Higher Range of Average Costs
A more significant solar generator intended to provide backup power for your house may be purchased for $2,000 to $4,000. Most models range from 1,800 to 3,000 watts, with some models offering up to 245 amp-hours.
The biggest solar-powered generators can provide enough energy to power an entire house or building. However, they’re not cheap; they usually cost between $10,000 and $50,000. They typically have a power output of at least 3,500 watts and a few thousand amp hours.
Also, if you’re purchasing a big solar-powered house generator, add $500 to $1,000 to your budget for delivery.
Installation Costs of a Solar Generator
Now, the cost of installation will vary based on the generator’s capacity and size, as well as the brand and business you select.
Larger machines, on average, cost more to install than smaller ones.
The average cost of installation in the United States varies from $9,255 to $28,000.
There are additional expenses to consider in addition to the installation cost.
If you buy a solar generator from an online retailer like Amazon, you’ll almost certainly have to pay for delivery. Depending on your location, you may also need to pay for municipal permission, inspection fees, and taxes.
You may also include installation labor expenses in the additional price.
So, when you ask how much a solar generator costs, the price is determined not only by the machine you select but also by factors such as labor, installation, and all of the other expenses listed.
Fortunately, despite the initial expenses of buying and installing a solar generator, it is very inexpensive to maintain your unit.
You’re not only saving money on energy, but you’re also helping to make the planet a better, cleaner place.
Why Solar Generators Are More Than Worth the Money
If you’re anything like us, before making a significant buy, the first thing you think about is if the item is worth the money. Many of us have been burned by impulsive purchases that have since accumulated dust in a dark place.
It’s a good idea to research the applications of the product you’re interested in to avoid purchasing items you don’t need.
Solar generators may be costly, depending on the type you select, and you may be asking whether the expense is justified. The advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a solar generator are discussed below.
Zero Fuel Needed
Regular gas-powered generators require regular fuel purchases. There are no fuel expenses with a solar generator.
Install your solar panel as soon as possible. This way you can take advantage of the free sunlight.
Clean and Renewable Energy
Clean, renewable energy sources entirely power solar generators. This means you won’t have to worry about the expense of fossil fuels to power your generator and the environmental effect of using gasoline.
When solar generators generate and store energy, they do so without emitting any pollutants. You can relax and enjoy your camping or boating vacation knowing that it is powered by renewable energy.
Low Maintenance
Another advantage of solar generators is that they are quiet. Solar generators, on the other end of the spectrum, when compared to gas generators, have no moving segments. This lowers the volume of noise they make while running considerably.
Furthermore, since there are no moving components, the possibilities of solar generator components breaking are insignificant. Compared to a gas generator, this significantly lowers the amount of maintenance needed for a solar generator.
Solar Generator Options: Simplified
When you’re making the switch to solar power, we know that things can be somewhat overwhelming. As with any business or personal household, it’s critical to stick to your budget.
That’s why we hope that our guide has shed some light on the average solar generator cost and why it’s definitely worth the up-front price.
And, if you enjoyed reading our article, then you’ll love checking out our additional tips and strategies. You’ll find them (and more) all in our energy and home improvement section.
