When the power goes out, you need a backup you can rely on.
For years, the only option was to install a noisy, fuel-burning generator. But now, solar panels with battery storage offer a quiet, clean, and reliable alternative.
If you’re comparing your options for backup power, keep reading. We break down the pros and cons of solar vs gas generators to help you choose the best fit for your home in Massachusetts.
How They Work
Solar Panels with Battery Backup
Rooftop solar panels generate electricity for your home, but they’re still connected to the electric grid. When the grid goes down, your panels shut off automatically. If you have a battery, however, your system can temporarily disconnect from the grid during a power outage and stay on.
During a daytime outage, your solar panels will power your home and charge your battery as usual. At night, your battery will take over, keeping power flowing to essentials like your lights, refrigerator, and medical devices.
Standby Generators
A standby generator is powered by fossil fuel, usually natural gas, propane, or diesel. When the grid goes down, a standby generator will automatically detect the outage and turn on, supplying power to essentials or your entire house, depending on its size.
How Solar Batteries & Generators Compare
Reliability During an Outage
- Solar + Battery: Runs on stored solar energy. As long as the sun rises, your battery can recharge during the day, giving you ongoing backup.
- Generator: Provides backup power as long as you have fuel. That means you’re dependent on propane or gas deliveries, which can be disrupted during storms.
Installation & Fuel Costs
- Solar + Battery: Higher initial investment, but no ongoing fuel costs. Plus, the system reduces your electricity costs, paying for itself through savings.
- Generator: Upfront costs can be lower than solar plus battery installation, but you’ll pay for ongoing fuel and maintenance.
Noise and Comfort
- Solar + Battery: Solar batteries operate silently, making them much more comfortable for you and your neighbors, especially during long-term and nighttime outages.
- Generator: Generators are loud and run continuously while in use. That noise can be disruptive to you and your neighbors.
Maintenance Requirements
- Solar + Battery: Residential solar batteries are low maintenance and will run for years with almost no upkeep.
- Generator: Requires regular service and testing to stay ready. Oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic fuel system checks add to the cost of ownership.
Environmental Impact
- Solar + Battery: Solar batteries provide clean, renewable backup power that doesn’t burn fossil fuels or produce harmful emissions.
- Generator: Runs on fossil fuels, producing emissions and contributing to air pollution.
How to Choose the Right Backup Power System for Your Home
The right backup power system for your home depends on what’s most important to you. When you’re comparing your options, ask yourself these questions:
1. What do you need to back up?
Do you just want to keep the fridge, Wi-Fi, and a few outlets powered, or do you want whole-home backup? Batteries are great for essentials and can be stacked for more coverage, but generators are generally better at running large loads simultaneously, like dryers and dishwashers.
2. Do you want something low-maintenance?
Generators need regular servicing and testing. Solar and battery systems are much more hands-off, minimizing effort and ongoing costs.
3. How do you feel about noise and emissions?
Generators are loud and run on fossil fuels, while solar plus storage operates silently and cleanly. For many Cape Cod homeowners, quiet backup power is a big quality-of-life benefit.
4. Are you concerned about fuel availability?
Generators rely on fuel, which can be hard to access during a storm. If trucks can’t get through, you won’t be able to refuel. Batteries recharge daily from your solar panels, giving you dependable backup without worrying about fuel shortages or deliveries.
Need Help Deciding? Schedule a Free Consultation
Choosing the right backup power system is a big decision, and what works best depends on your home, your budget, and your goals. At My Generation Energy, we’ve been helping Cape Cod homeowners make smart energy choices since 2008. Our team will walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you choose the right fit.
