Which type of backup power option is best—solar or gas?

Imagine the scene: disaster strikes. One neighbor has a solar panel generator, while another neighbor invested in a traditional gas generator. Who keeps the lights on longer? And more importantly, which one of them do you emulate when it’s time for you to buy a generator for your home?

When it comes to solar vs. gas generator, not only is solar power a green, renewable energy that’s more sustainable than fossil fuels, but it’s also less reliant on the availability of outside fuel sources. Additionally, recent advancements in technology, combined with policy changes, have made solar energy relatively affordable. Yet, people still buy gas generators because, for better or worse, gas is everywhere, and gas generators remain more familiar and cheaper upfront.

So, which is the best generator for home backup power? We studied the playing field, and here’s where the contest stands in 2025.

What to know about solar generators

If you haven’t been paying attention, you might be surprised at what solar-powered generators can do. Innovations in solar power have continued to gain popularity, while new policies and tax breaks incentivize adoption.

Powerful batteries are now cheaper than ever, so you can store energy more effectively. Many solar energy backup power sources provide both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). When set up correctly, power conversion is safe to use with high-end consumer electronics, such as televisions and laptops.

Solar generators typically cost more upfront than gas generators. However, they can work out to be cheaper in the long run. Solar generators are dependent on sunlight and weather conditions. In midwinter, someone living in the far North may not receive enough sunlight to replenish their battery effectively. In more central geographical areas, however, this is less of a concern.

Those who are serious about preparing for long-term disasters should consider solar generators, which offer advantages over gas-powered alternatives because they don’t require a steady stream of market-priced fuel to continue operating. Solar is also significantly less polluting than fossil fuel power.

A solar generator system typically includes a set of panels, a battery, and an electrical conversion system.

Portable solar generators offer numerous opportunities. Often small enough that they can be transported in the back of an automobile, these portable power stations will follow you and your van or truck wherever you might find yourself, or serve to help you through a blackout in a major winter storm.

However, for many, a more permanent whole-home solar generator system could be the better pick. If you’re serious about your research, you might even find you have the DIY skills to install a system yourself.

What to know about gas generators

When it comes to selecting the best generator for home backup power, most people who opt for a gas generator do so because of the lower upfront cost. The initial investment required to purchase a gas generator will generally be smaller than that required to purchase a solar generator that produces the same type of power. Additionally, for many people, familiarity with gas systems makes a gas generator seem like a more straightforward option.

Gas generators come with some significant downsides, including extreme noise and pollution. Gas combustion emits toxic fumes, and the microexplosions that occur within can sound like a jackhammer going off. For this reason, you shouldn’t ever use a gas generator in the house.

Additionally, gas degrades in quality when it remains in storage for extended periods. Gasoline should be used within a month of purchase. Backup gas generators are meant to be used in infrequent contingency situations. Since gasoline doesn’t keep well, to be prepared, you’ll need to frequently restock your backup gasoline, which you may or may not ever use.

Additionally, gas is a finite resource that can fluctuate in price. In the event of a weather event, such as a hurricane, gasoline demand could spike, leading to scarcity and an increase in the price point.

While gas generators generate a lot of energy, most don’t include batteries that are powerful enough to store that energy. Any energy that you don’t use is wasted. Gasoline may be a more convenient stopgap for short blackouts, but it’s neither more cost-effective nor reliable in the long term.

Still, if you feel that a gas generator offers the dependability you need, there are good options.

Solar vs. gas generators: Which is the best generator for home backup power?

Based on our research, solar generators are a better choice over gas generators. The right solar generator system will outlive its gas counterpart, run cheaper over many years, and will outshine a gas generator in real storm scenarios. Solar generators also provide clean energy that causes less strain on the environment.

Different classes of solar generators present different options. An affordable, small generator system can power a phone or laptop when the grid is down. Mid-sized generators can handle a wide range of appliances, including major appliances and personal electronics. While larger, more permanent units can power the whole home.