Calculated cost to run a generator

[Dinobot248]

I wanted to share my calculations to compute the cost to run a generator with gasoline, propane and natural gas.

Previously, I was not able to find any reliable information on an inverter generator running natural gas and what information that I did find, used fuzzy math

Each generator is different and the costs calculations are for the specific generator listed below under Reference section below. Using the specifications for the generator, I was able to find the cost per kWh for my area. Your mileage will vary.


Input costs
NG (MCF) $10.00
Propane - retail (lb) $1.00
Gasoline (gallon) $3.00

Type of Energy Cost / kWh
NG - 25% load $0.2692
NG - 100% load $0.1698

Propane - 25% load $1.8150
Propane - 100% load $0.9433


Gasoline - 25% load $0.8186

Gasoline - 50% load $0.5412
with low idle technology

Gasoline - 100% load $0.5501

Grid / POC $0.2500




Reference
Manual for Genmax 11,000w Tri-Fuel Inverter Generator
Feel free to use the links below or find the webpage yourself

Link to website
GENMAX GM11000iET 11000 Watt Tri-Fuel Inverter Generator - Remote Start CO Sensor

GENMAX GM11000iET 11000 Watt Tri-Fuel Inverter Generator - Remote Start CO Sensor

Product Details Have reliable power outdoors with this Genmax 11,000-Watt tri fuel portable inverter generator. Perfect for camping or tailgating, it features a powerful 458cc OHV engine and offers a high output of 11,000 starting watts with 8,500 running watts on gasoline and 9,500 starting...

www.genmaxpower.com

Link to PDF
6800.J35.GEM.02.02 GM11000iET三燃料变频发电机说明书 新版彩色插图 V1版 20240226.cdr

https://file.infoservision.com/1429984513066467330/1848172199176867841.pdf

 

[Dagoth Ur Does Solar]

Probably belongs in the Fuel Back-up Generators board, but nice thread. I have wanted to actually do this with my Champion tri-fuel inverter and see what kind of energy output I get per $.

I presume under basically any circumstances, NG is likely to be cheaper than propane grill tanks or gasoline, but in your case, it's a fraction of the cost, which is awesome.

Hoping I never have to put gasoline in my Champion to begin with, but tri-fuel is where it's at for preparedness!