Solar generators have been growing in popularity over the past few years due to their potential to provide clean and reliable energy. However, while they're becoming more widespread, many people still ask "How much does a solar generator cost?" and whether or not the device is cost-effective.
The average cost of a new solar generator is $1,000. Meanwhile, with an initial cost starting from $500, a gas-powered generator offers a much cheaper option. Nonetheless, it requires gas to operate, which has become increasingly costly. Below, we will further discuss how much is a solar generator as well as the many benefits it can bring to you in different situations.
Long-Term Benefits and Return on Investment
Many people consider that solar generator cost is not very economically viable. However, when you think about it, it is actually one of the best investments you can make for your home. This thing runs on solar, which is practically free, and does not require anything to maintain!
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
There is no combustion and smoke involved in the operational processes of solar generators. This simply implies that such a device will never create any air pollution, making it a great alternative wanting to keep their carbon prints as low as possible.
What makes a solar generator even greater is that it also does not make any sound pollution. Gas-powered generators make quite a noise, don’t they? These solar-powered devices are as quiet as generators can get, so you can stop worrying about annoying your neighbors.
Potential Savings on Energy Bills
The great thing about having a solar generator at home is that you can keep it charged as long as the sun is shining. This signifies that, even if you are connected to the grid, you can still use the generator to save on your energy bills. So, how do you do it?
The best way to do it is by powering some of your devices using the generator. It doesn’t matter if you are not in a power outage situation. You can always hook your phone chargers to the generator and embrace the electricity from the sun.
Government Incentives and Rebates
Another wonderful benefit you may get out of using electricity from a solar-powered generator is that it may make you qualified to get incentives from the government. If you have it after the end of 2022, you’ll get a 22% tax credit. You should, however, keep in mind that this incentive only applies to large-scale solar installations.
The good news is that you don’t need to integrate your home solar generator with the grid to receive any potential incentive and credit. This is clearly stated on the Government’s Official Website. In the long run, this, without a doubt, will be a benefit you should be grateful for.
Factors Influencing Solar Generator Costs
Just like any other electrical device out there, the cost of a portable solar generator will depend on a number of factors. What you need to do is make sure you get a great bang for the buck, and consider the aspects below will allow you to do just so!
Solar Panel Capacity
When it comes to deciding whether a solar-powered generator offers you the best value, its capacity is the main thing you should first consider. No, we are not only talking about the capacity of the generator here but also the solar panel as well.
Yes, because these generators also come with a solar panel kit in their packages, you should pay close attention to the kit’s capacity. This factor is essential because it will dictate how long you will charge the generator using the sun’s energy.
On top of that, you should also consider the capacity of the generator. A higher capacity usually involves a higher price as well. The reason for this is that it usually entails the use of bigger and higher-quality batteries inside the pack.
Battery Storage Capacity
The next factor that affects a solar-powered generator’s price is its battery storage capacity. The main reason for this is that the batteries make up the biggest portion of a solar generator. Simply put, the more electricity a generator keeps the more batteries it will need.
Different solar-powered generators also use different battery types, and this will also affect their storage capacities. Generally speaking, modern solar generators employ Li-Ion batteries. If you find ones that use lead-acid batteries, they are probably older models.
Some great examples of solar generators with decent storage capacities are INFINITY 1500 ($1,299) and INFINITY 1300 ($1,099), which have 1512Wh and 1382Wh capacity. Or, if you are looking for something smaller, VITA 550 ($499) is a great option with its 538Wh capacity.
Brand and Quality Considerations
We all know that good things ain’t cheap and cheap things ain’t good. And, one thing about knowing whether a solar generator is good or not is by figuring out who makes the device. In other words, you should also consider the generator brand’s reputation.
Although it may be a little bit more expensive, it is worth paying to get a solar-powered generator from a reputable manufacturer. It will save you from a lot of trouble in the future since you will be able to easily access customer care and after-sales services.
It is also no surprise that a high-quality solar-powered generator is a bit expensive as its structure is solid enough to endure the daily wear and tear. And, despite higher prices, a solar generator with strong parts and good panels will give you better confidence.
Installation and Maintenance Costs
Although it is true that solar-powered generators often involve installation and maintenance costs, they actually depend on the nature and size of the system you decide to install. In fact, when using portable models, the costs can be down to nothing!
You read that right! Portable solar generators can be directly used straight out of the package. All you have to do is place the included solar panel outside and wait for the battery pack to be fully charged. The device is very easy to set up and use. You do not have to call any technician.
Nonetheless, such logic cannot be applied to large-scale systems. In most cases, you will have to invite a professional to do everything for you. More importantly, you will also need them to do the maintenance. Nevertheless, the costs will still be lower compared to using a gas generator.
Shopping Tips for Saving Cost When Buying a Solar Generator
As with any kind of generator, it's essential to ensure the solar generator device you get can reliably provide you with the electricity you need. There are several approaches that'll help and knowing these will allow you to choose the right product for the job.
Research and Compare Prices Online
Researching different products is crucial because it is the only way to know what options you have out there. But, before you do that, you should figure out how much electricity you need and in what kind of situation you will use the generator. Only then you can determine what kind of generator you need and compare several alternatives in the same price range.
Timing Purchases for Seasonal Discounts and Deals
Those who have been in the solar generator business for a long time will know that there are occasions when brands or retailers offer special discounts to clients. So, be sure to find out if your favorite solar generator company and seller have seasonal deals in place. They will usually provide a discount on both new and old items in stock as well.
Write to The Brand's Official Store to Ask for a Coupon
It may have never crossed your mind that you can use coupons to save a few dollars, but they can actually help you do so if you know how to use them correctly. Also, you should keep in mind that no one is stopping you from writing to the brand or business and asking them for a coupon if you don’t have one.
FAQs
It is worthwhile to get a solar-powered generator for my home?
If you live in a place with regular power outages, solar-powered generators are definitely worth the investment. Additionally, solar power prices have become cheaper as time goes by and will help to extend the lifespan of your appliances.
Will a 2000-watt solar generator be adequate to run my home?
Today, entry-level solar power generators have a 2000-watt capacity or even lower. Believe us, this number is more than enough to run the small devices in your home. You will definitely be able to keep your phones charged for a few days or until the power is on again.
Conclusion
In the end, there are many uses of solar-powered generators that make them a worthwhile investment. You can, for example, use it to keep your devices working in your home during situations in which you don’t have access to on-grid electricity.
A solar power generator is also a much better option compared to traditional generators. It has the ability to generate clean power without making any kind of noise. And, don’t forget that it allows you to charge it using solar energy and your home’s power supply!
