Canada experiences frequent power outages due to disasters like winds and rains. Recently, more than 70,000 homes[1] in Quebec were left without power following the intense wind and rain on 28th Feb 2024. As a result, schools were closed, and residents also faced issues like disrupted communication and discomfort due to lack of heating. In addition to this, other areas like Whatì, N.W.T., are also experiencing frequent power blackouts.
The community had experienced 11 power outages in 2024 alone[2] and a total of 35 since last April. This situation is only going to get worse, and a generator for your home will become truly invaluable. A solar generator utilizes the sun’s energy to generate power. Investing in high-performance solar generators gives you freedom from grid dependency and uninterrupted electricity in challenging conditions.
Want to know more about various generator for home options, and is it worth investing in solar generators? Continue reading!
Classification of the Generator for Home
When you purchase a generator for home in Canada, you’ll be overwhelmed by the types of generators available. Therefore, it’s better to first understand each generator type along with its pros and cons to make sure you invest in the right one.
- Fuel Generators
Fuel generators convert fuel (gasoline, diesel, natural gas, etc.) into electricity via combustion. Some common types of fuel generators that you may come across are:
- Diesel Generators
Diesel generators are the ones that come with diesel engines and electrical generators to produce electricity. The process is simple; firstly, the generator converts the chemical energy of diesel fuel into mechanical energy through combustion, which is later converted into electrical energy.
These generators are commonly used on construction sites, telecommunication towers, and other events. Here are the pros and cons of diesel generators:
Pros
- It has high thermal efficiency, which results in less fuel usage.
- Reliable and lasts long if maintained properly.
Cons
- Very heavy, posing challenges in moving from one place to another.
- Emit greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and toxic gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and hydrogen sulphide, which cause air pollution. Therefore, it shouldn’t be used indoor.
- Produce a significant amount of noise during operation.
- Gasoline Generators
Next, we have Gasoline Generators. These generators use an internal combustion engine that converts gasoline or gas into electricity. The engine has a cylinder, a piston, and a crankshaft. It works by utilizing a spark plug to ignite the mixture of gas inside the cylinder.
There’s an explosion that moves the piston upward, rotating the crankshaft, which, as a result, provides electrical energy. These generators are commonly available for use in homes during power outages. Let’s now look at the pros and cons of gasoline generators:
Pros
- The purchase cost is less than diesel generators.
- Small in size and lighter than diesel ones, making transportation easy.
- Very easy to start, particularly during cold weather, as gasoline generators use spark plugs to ignite the fuel.
Cons
- Low fuel efficiency than diesel generators, which makes them costlier in the long run.
- Highly flammable and has less shelf life.
- Can’t use it indoor because of the risk of toxic fumes, such as carbon monoxide.
- Propane Generators
Propane Generators are another type of fuel generator for houses. These generators use propane fuel to produce electricity. Typically, the generator features a combustion engine that runs on propane.
When you start the generator, it burns the propane vapour inside, which drives the generator alternator. This movement of internal components results in the generation of electrical energy. Propane Generators serve as a backup power source during power outages, and their pros and cons are given as follows:
Pros
- Produce fewer pollutants than gasoline or diesel as propane is a clean-burning fuel.
- Longer shelf life, which is beneficial when going on long-term trips.
- Less noise compared to gasoline and diesel ones, reducing noise pollution.
Cons
- It requires frequent maintenance and replacements, which can be costly.
- Compared to gasoline and diesel generators of the same size, propane provides less power output.
- Non-Fuel Generators
Non-fuel generators produce electricity without relying on traditional fuel sources like gasoline, diesel, propane, and petroleum. They aren’t harmful to the environment and operate silently. Some types of non-fuel generators are given as:
- Wind Turbine Generators
Wind turbine generators, as the name suggests, utilize the wind’s kinetic energy and convert it into electricity. The turbine’s blades, which resemble the propellers on an aeroplane, use the aerodynamic force of the coming wind.
This force moves or turns the rotor, which spins a power generator, resulting in electricity production. Remember, the larger the wind turbine blades are, the fewer obstacles in their way, and the more electricity there is. Let’s now look at some pros and cons of wind turbine generators:
Pros
- Low operational cost as wind is totally free.
- Provides clean and eco-friendly energy.
- Requires very little maintenance due to a lack of moving parts that may need lubrication.
Cons
- Blades of wind turbine generators cause a “whooshing” sound, contributing to noise pollution.
- May harm wildlife with its spinning blades.
- Solar Generators
Solar generators utilize the sun’s energy to generate electricity. A solar generator for home comes with solar panels, a charge controller, batteries, and an inverter. Solar panels capture the sunlight falling onto them and convert it into DC electricity.
The charge controller regulates the DC power going into the battery, which is stored until needed. There’s an inverter that changes the DC power into AC electricity, which is used to power various household appliances. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of a solar generator for home:
Pros
- Very lightweight and small in size compared to other generators, so there are no mobility issues.
- Operates using the sun’s energy, which is clean, free, and widely available.
- Produces little noise.
- Very easy to maintain and serve you in the long run.
Cons
- The amount of electricity generated is affected by weather conditions
- It may cost you more upfront, but the long-term advantages subside the initial investment.
Solar Generator vs. wind Turbine Generator vs. Diesel Generator vs. Gasoline Generator vs. Propane Generator
| Diesel Generator | Gasoline Generator | Propane Generator | Wind Turbine Generator | Solar Generator | |
| Fuel Source | Diesel | Gasoline | Propane | Wind | Solar |
| Reliability | High | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Weight/Portability | Heavy/Not portable | Light/Portable | Light/Portable | Heavy/Fixed | Light/Portable |
| Starting Method | Traditional | Spark plug | Traditional | Automatic | Automatic |
| Environmental Impact | Polluting | Polluting | Less polluting | Non-polluting | Non-polluting |
| Noise Level | Noisy | Moderate | Low | Noisy | Low |
| Maintenance | Regular | Less | Frequent | Minimal | Minimal |
| Initial Cost | Moderate | Low | Moderate | High | High |
| Long-term Cost | Low | High | Moderate | Low | Low |
| Power Output | High | Moderate | Lower | Variable | Variable |
| Suitable Applications | Construction sites | Home backup | Home backup | Wind-rich areas | Home backup |
Cost Analysis of the Home Battery Backup
Different types of generators cost you differently, and it’s good to have an idea of their purchase, installation, operation, and maintenance costs. This ensures you pick the right generator for home.
- Purchase Cost
The purchase cost for fuel generators may vary depending upon the size and type of generator for home you are buying – gasoline, petrol, diesel, or propane. However, in Canada, these generators can cost you $500 — $2,500 (standby) and $2,000 — $7,000 (portable).
- Installation Cost
Next is the installation cost, which can also change depending on the type and size of your generator for home and installation site. You can expect to pay $1,000 — $5,000 (standby) and $500 — $1,500 (portable) fuel generators.
- Operating Cost (fuel)
The operating cost of fuel generators is subject to changes based on the type of fuel generator you use. As of 18th March, the gasoline price in Canada is CAD 1.80 per litre, and for diesel, it’s CAD 1.70. So, depending on the size of your generator and total run time, the overall operational cost can fluctuate.
- Maintenance Cost
Homeowners should expect to pay anywhere between $300 to $1,000 annually for the maintenance of standby fuel generators. The cost can change if there’s severe damage or some mechanical failure.
Fuel generators come with hefty price tags that further dent your budget with installation, operation, and maintenance costs. But worry no more as solar generators come as a sigh of relief in this situation.
After the initial purchase and installation investment, these generators bring no operational costs. They utilize the sun’s energy, which is totally free. In addition, their maintenance requirements are very minimal due to a lack of internal moving parts.
The Value of the Generator for Home
A solar generator for home is a significant investment and serves as a whole home battery backup, especially if you live in Canadian cities where power outages are expected. Some benefits of solar generators are given as follows:
Emergency Value During Power Outages
Power outages are common, especially in the challenging Canadian weather where freezing rain or heavy winds can impact the grid infrastructure. A solar generator for the home comes as a sigh of relief in this situation.
During bad weather and extensive blackouts, it keeps all your essential appliances powered. Whether you want to make food on an electric stove or need illumination, a solar generator can do it all.
Electricity Cost-Saving Value
Canadian electricity prices are skyrocketing, and the average cost for residential electricity is $0.192 per kWh.[3] Solar generators also help in this situation as they allow you to reduce your reliance on grid electricity. By using electricity produced by solar generators during peak hours, you can use grid power only during off-peak hours. This results in less electricity bills, increasing your overall savings.
Environmental Value
The environmental value provided by a solar generator for homes is enormous. These generators totally rely on the sun’s energy for electricity generation, which is clean and doesn’t release any greenhouse gases. This positively impacts the Canadian environment and helps make this planet a better place for future generations.
How Many Bills Can You Save with Jackery Generators for Home?
Jackery Solar Generators are valuable in Canada’s hurricane weather and are pretty affordable, offering you significant savings in the long run. Some of the best Jackery Solar Generator options are:
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
First, we have the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus, which is an excellent generator for home. Designed for versatile scenarios, this solar generator with portable solar panels has an expandable capacity ranging from 2 to 24 kWh. It offers a high power output of up to 6000 W, which is enough to power most of your household as well as outdoor adventure appliances or equipment. With ultra-fast charging powered by IBC technology, this solar generator is fully charged in a minimum timeframe of 2 hours (by wall charging).
What truly sets this unique product apart from others is its exceptionally durable LiFePO4 battery with a 10-year lifespan, ensuring you enjoy consistent power for years. There’s ChargeShield technology that enhances battery longevity by 50% through a unique variable-speed charging algorithm. So, whether it’s off-grid living or emergency preparedness, the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus covers everything.
Key Features
- Ultra-Fast Solar Charging: Utilizes advanced IBC Technology for a full charge in just 2 hours (by wall charging).
- Powerful Performance: Capable of powering heavy-duty devices up to 6000W.
- Long-Lasting Reliability: Equipped with an outstanding LiFePO4 Battery with a 10-year lifespan.
Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro
The Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro boasts a substantial 3024Wh capacity, which is enough to power most of your household appliances. It features ultra-fast charging capabilities and can be fully charged in just 2.4 hours (by wall charging), ensuring minimal downtime. The weight of its exceptional portable power station is a mere 63.93 lbs, which is complemented by the pull rod and double wheels design, enhancing the overall portability.
Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro remains functional in temperatures as low as -20°C / -4°F. Thanks to its quiet operation, this generator doesn’t contribute to noise pollution. The best part? The fully upgraded BMS system ensures safe operation and provides you with the desired peace of mind.
Key Features
- Fast Charging: Fully solar charged in 6-7.5 hours, wall charged in 2.4 hours.
- Smart App Control: Convenient accessibility and control via a smartphone app.
- Temperature Monitoring: Nine sensors ensure optimal performance and longevity through real-time temperature adjustments.
- Lightweight: Weighs just 63.93 lbs, 30% lighter and smaller than similar products.
Savings Calculation
Let’s calculate the savings you can enjoy using these two solar generators for 5 and 10 years. Consider the current Canadian electricity price, which is $0.192 per kWh.
So, first, let’s find the annual electricity cost for the average Canadian household (ignore the variating energy price):
Annual electricity cost = 11,135 kWh/year × $0.192/kWh = $2,137.92/year
Now, considering the Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro has a capacity of 3024Wh (3.024 kWh) or Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus (2.0428 kWh) and is fully utilized once a day, it can offer total electricity:
Electricity saved per year (Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro) = 3.024 kWh/day*0.85 × 365 days/year = 938.20 kWh/year
Electricity saved per year (Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus) = 2.0428 kWh/day*0.85 × 365 days/year = 633.78 kWh/year
The cost you’ve to pay for this much electricity from the grid is:
Cost of electricity from the grid (Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro) = 938.20 kWh/year × $0.192/kWh = $180.13/year
Cost of electricity from the grid (Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus) = 633.78 kWh/year × $0.192/kWh = $121.69/year
If you use Jackery Solar Generator 3000 Pro of 3024Wh for 5 years, you can enjoy savings of:
Total electricity cost savings over five years = ($180.13/year) × 5 years = $900.67
For ten years:
Total electricity cost savings over ten years = ($180.13/year) × 10 years = $1801.3
And for Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus, the answer will be:
For five years:
Total electricity cost savings over five years = ($121.69/year) × 5 years = $608.43
For ten years:
Total electricity cost savings over ten years = ($121.69/year) × 10 years = $1216.9
Conclusion
A solar generator for home offers you plenty of benefits, such as increased cost savings, emergency preparedness, and less risk of environmental pollution. Wondering where to get solar generators for your home? Jackery is your one-stop shop! They offer an extensive range of solar energy products, from solar generators to solar panels. Contact them to get top-notch clean and renewable energy solutions for your home!
Reference:
[1] https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/wild-winds-rain-cause-power-outages-school-closures-across-quebec-1.6788797
[2] https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/aging-infrastructure-population-growth-what%C3%AC-n-w-t-power-outages-1.7106873
[3] https://www.incometaxgujarat.org/electricity-rates-canada/
