Generator vs Solar Battery for Backup Power
Both generators and solar batteries provide home backup power, but they work differently and excel in different situations. This guide compares both options for San Diego East County homeowners facing PSPS shutoffs.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Generator | Solar + Battery |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $8,000–$18,000 | $20,000–$40,000+ |
| Runtime | Unlimited (fuel) | 8-24 hours (battery) |
| Whole-House Power | Yes | Limited loads |
| AC Capability | Full capacity | Reduces runtime significantly |
| Fire Season Performance | Unaffected by smoke | Reduced solar production |
| Maintenance | Annual service required | Minimal |
| Operating Cost | $2-4/hour (fuel) | Free (solar) |
Generator Advantages
Unlimited Runtime During PSPS
The biggest advantage of generators for PSPS protection is unlimited runtime. When SDG&E shuts off power for 24-72 hours during fire weather, a generator connected to natural gas runs indefinitely. Propane generators run as long as fuel is available. There's no worrying about "battery running out" during extended outages.
Full Home Power Including AC
A properly sized whole-house generator powers everything in your home, including central air conditioning. This is critical during summer and fall PSPS events in East County when temperatures exceed 100°F. Battery systems struggle to run AC for extended periods without rapidly depleting.
Unaffected by Smoke and Weather
During fire season, wildfire smoke can significantly reduce solar panel output. When PSPS events occur due to fire danger, the very conditions causing the shutoff also reduce solar battery recharging capability. Generators produce full power regardless of smoke, clouds, or nighttime conditions.
Lower Initial Investment
A complete generator system costs $8,000-$18,000 installed. Comparable solar + battery systems with similar backup capability cost $25,000-$50,000+. See our generator cost guide for detailed pricing.
Solar Battery Advantages
Zero Operating Cost
Once installed, solar batteries charge for free from sunlight. Generators consume $2-4 of fuel per hour when running. For frequent short outages (not multi-day PSPS), this operating cost difference adds up.
Minimal Maintenance
Battery systems require virtually no maintenance. Generators need annual professional service ($250-400/year) and periodic oil/filter changes. See our maintenance schedule guide.
Silent Operation
Battery inverters are silent. Generators produce 60-70 decibels of noise—similar to a conversation—which some neighborhoods and HOAs regulate.
Daily Energy Savings
Solar + battery systems can store solar energy to use during peak electricity rates, reducing daily electric bills beyond just backup power. Generators only activate during outages.
Best Choice for East County PSPS Protection
For San Diego East County homeowners primarily concerned about PSPS protection, generators are typically the better choice for these reasons:
- •PSPS events last 24-72 hours—beyond typical battery capacity
- •Fire season smoke reduces solar recharging during the exact conditions causing shutoffs
- •Summer/fall AC needs require more power than batteries can sustain
- •Natural gas is unlimited—SDG&E gas service continues during PSPS electrical shutoffs
Consider Solar Battery Instead If:
- • Your primary concern is short-duration outages (under 12 hours)
- • You want to reduce daily electricity costs alongside backup power
- • Your home has a small electrical load (no AC, no well pump)
- • Noise restrictions or personal preference prohibit generators
- • You have budget for $30,000+ system investment
Hybrid Option: Generator + Solar Battery
Some homeowners combine both systems for maximum flexibility:
- •Solar + battery handles daily energy storage and short outages silently
- •Generator activates automatically when battery depletes during extended PSPS
- •Provides redundancy—two independent backup systems
This approach costs more upfront ($35,000-$60,000+) but provides the benefits of both technologies.
Get Personalized Backup Power Advice
Every home's backup power needs are different. Our free assessment evaluates your specific situation—home size, electrical loads, PSPS exposure, and budget—to recommend the best backup power solution.