STIK vs Generator | STIK vs Panels | Gas vs Solar Cost

A GASOLINE GENERATOR

VERSUS

THE SOLAR STIK™

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A Brief Comparison... "Instant Power" versus "Stored Power"

Can a solar generator really compete with a traditional gasoline generator? The fact is, a portable solar generator can completely replace a small gasoline generator in many applications. The main difference between them is that a solar generator generates power all day and stores it in batteries, and then supplies that "stored" power to the connected appliances as needed (or "on-demand"). The fuel-driven generator must be operating in order to supply any power to its appliances.

A Fuel-Driven Generator

For most people, operating a gasoline driven generator is simply a matter of convenience. One can simply turn it on, plug in their appliances, and refuel when necessary. In many applications, generators are effective as "temporary" power production, but are not suitable for long-term power requirements. Also, gasoline generators usually run appliances that consume only a fraction of the generator's rated power output, thus consuming unnecessary fuel when operating because they only run at a single speed.

The Solar Stik™ System powering a vendor's booth

refrigerator/freezer, fans, lights and cash register

The actual cost to operate a gasoline generator is largely dependent on the generator's "run-time". Generator manufacturers only guarantee traditional fuel-driven generators for a short period of life (1-2 years), due to the varying amount of "run-time" they may be subjected to.

$1,820...

or about one week of constant portable power generation.

Shown above is a generator that costs $450 at MSRP, 150 gallons of gasoline at $4 per gallon, 30 fuel canisters at $20 MSRP each, motor oil, and additional required materials for operation. 

Additional operating challenges include fuel transport and storage, required interval maintenance, and replacement of parts that wear out with regular use.

The overall cost of operating a gasoline generator reaches far beyond the initial purchase price.

The logistics of supporting a gasoline generator prevents it from being a good power source in a remote location, after a disaster, or for longer-term applications.

A Solar Generator

A solar generator like the Solar Stik™ can generate enough power in a day to support the constant power draw of several small appliances operating over a 24-hour period.

The Solar Stik™ operates with any 12 volt battery bank, or can operate as a stand-alone power source when the Solar Stik™ Power Pak is employed. Also, the Solar Stik™ is completely silent and emits no harmful fumes, which enhances its appeal as a power generator.

Quiet Operation

Compared to a gasoline generator, the Solar Stik™ has $0.00 operating cost, requires no maintenance, and has a manufacturer 's warranty for 25 years of power output. It is also extremely light, portable, and rugged. Setup of the Solar Stik™ System is "plug & play" and can be done by one person in less than five minutes. It can be erected for short or long term operation without concern for weather or environmental impact, making it ideal for use every single day. It can be set up and left to operate all day or all week.

The Solar Stik™ System providing power at a picnic in the park

Reducing Fuel-Driven Generator "Run Time"

As operation costs continue to rise for fuel-driven generators, many are seeking to simply reduce generator run-time, saving on both fuel and maintenance.

If used in a heavy duty application, the Solar Stik™ System can usually be expanded to meet demands, but it can also be interfaced with a traditional AC power sources by using the Pro-Verter Pak, which will lessen the burden of constant generator operation.

The Pro-Verter connected between a Gas Generator and the

Solar Stik™ System

The Pro-Verter works in conjunction with the Solar Stik™ by storing additional power available from gas powered generators, or even 120VAC from the power grid.  Storing available power lessens the burden of constantly running a generator, and reduces the generator's operating costs.

The Solar Stik™ Breeze - new for 2008!

The Solar Stik™ System now features solar and wind power generation.  The new Pro-Series Solar Stik™ Breeze uses solar and wind energy to store power day and night, allowing heavier loads to be placed on the system.

To see an Operating Cost Analysis of a Gasoline Generator and the Solar Stik™, click here.

To see how a Solar Generator "Bridges the Gap" between solar power and a "fuel-driven" generator, click here.

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