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The lights go out at dinner time, the fridge stops humming, and the choice for home backup comes down to solar panel vs generator for home backup. This comparison puts solar panels against fuel generators, using only what each listing states. The short verdict: choose the solar panel side for quiet, sun-fed power, and the generator side for whole-home power through a long outage when fuel is on hand.
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Solar panel vs generator: side by side
| Solar panel vs generator | Solar Score | Output stated | Weight | Warranty | Outlets or connection | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 28000W Portable | 9.7/10 | 20,000 running / 28,000 peak watts | 541.1 lb | 3-year limited residential | 30A and 50A outlets | View on Amazon |
| Generac 14kW Standby | 9.7/10 | 14kW | 391.0 lb | 5 Year Limited | Automatic 200 Amp transfer switch | View on Amazon |
| NOVAX 880W Bifacial Pair | 9.6/10 | 880W (2 x 440W) | Not stated | Not stated | MC4, Vmp 31.67V | View on Amazon |
| Greenery 400W Foldable Panel | 9.5/10 | 400W | 27.5 lb | 1-year | MC4, 18V | View on Amazon |
These specs are rated by the maker and quoted from each listing on 13 November 2026.
Output and run time
The Westinghouse states 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts on gasoline, and the Generac states 14kW. The NOVAX pair states 880W total and up to 2.2 kWh per day, and the Greenery states 400W. Panel output depends on sunlight: the NOVAX states 1.3 to 2.2 kWh per day in sunny conditions and 0.1 to 0.5 kWh per day in rainy or heavily overcast conditions.
Weight and size
The Greenery folds to 30.9 by 23.6 by 2.95 inches and weighs 27.5 pounds. The NOVAX panels measure 68.0 by 45.0 by 1.5 inches, with no weight stated. The Generac states 391.0 pounds and 46.4 by 26.3 by 30.7 inches, and the Westinghouse states 541.1 pounds and 38.0 by 35.0 by 40.4 inches.
Safety and warranties
The Westinghouse states a CO sensor that shuts the generator down when elevated carbon monoxide is detected, and automatic low-oil shutdown. The Generac states oil level sensors. On the panel side, the NOVAX states 3.2mm tempered glass and a rigid aluminum frame, and the Greenery states an operating range of 14°F to 149°F. Warranties: the Generac states a 5 Year Limited warranty, the Westinghouse states a 3-year limited residential warranty, the Greenery states a 1-year warranty, and the NOVAX states no warranty term.
What the listings leave unclear
The NOVAX listing states no weight and no warranty term. The Greenery bullets name the panel Solarplay while the listing brand is Greenery, and the tips line advises storing the panel indoors, because prolonged outdoor exposure can cause the protective film to bubble and degrade. The Generac listing notes that reviews may contain feedback based on the 14 kW Generac Guardian Home Standby Generator. The Westinghouse lists its transfer switch as sold separately and states no run time or noise figure. None of the listings states a UL or ETL listing.
The kits we chose
| # | Product | Solar Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Westinghouse 28000W Portable | 9.7/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |  Generac 14kW Standby | 9.7/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |  NOVAX 880W Bifacial Pair | 9.6/10 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |  Greenery 400W Foldable Panel | 9.5/10 | Buy on Amazon |
Westinghouse 28000W Portable
A portable generator with 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts on gasoline, remote electric start, 30A and 50A outlets, a CO sensor and a 3-year limited residential warranty.
Pros
- 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts on gasoline stated
- CO sensor shuts the generator down when elevated carbon monoxide is detected
- Less than 5% THD for phones, computers and TVs
- Remote electric start with auto choke, plus heavy-duty wheels and handles
Cons
- 541.1 pounds stated, the heaviest pick here
- Transfer switch sold separately
- No run time figure is stated
- No noise level is stated
Detailed Review
The listing states a portable generator with 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts on gasoline, a 999cc engine with full-pressure lubrication and an automotive-style oil filter, less than 5% THD, copper windings, remote electric start with auto choke, and 50A and 30A outlets. It states a built-in CO sensor that shuts the generator down when elevated carbon monoxide is detected, automatic low-oil shutdown, heavy-duty wheels and handles, and a 3-year limited residential warranty with lifetime technical support. The Westinghouse WATS200 Automatic Transfer Switch is sold separately.
Who it's for: homeowners who want portable backup with the highest stated watts here and a CO sensor. Who should skip it: anyone who cannot move 541.1 pounds.
Its Solar Score of 9.7/10 comes from performance 33/35, build 22/25, value 21/25, safety 8/10 and warranty 2/5: 86 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Running watts | 20,000W on gasoline |
|---|---|
| Peak watts | 28,000W on gasoline |
| Outlets | 30A and 50A |
| Weight | 541.1 lb |
Taken from the seller's listing on 13 November 2026. Capacity and output figures are rated by the manufacturer.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. CO sensor and automatic low-oil shutdown stated, so safety scores 8 of 10. 3-year limited residential warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 2 of 5. See How We Pick.
Follow the manual. Connect and use the product as the maker describes, stay within every stated rating, and read the manual before first use.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.
Generac 14kW Standby
A 14kW whole home standby generator with an automatic 200 Amp transfer switch, cellular monitoring and a 5 Year Limited warranty.
Pros
- Automatically detects an outage and delivers backup power to the home
- Automatic 200 Amp transfer switch included
- Cellular connectivity with Mobile Link app monitoring and maintenance alerts
- Compatible with ecobee by Generac thermostats and Generac PWRcell battery systems
Cons
- 391.0 pounds stated
- No run time figure is stated
- No noise level is stated
- Real-time updates and maintenance alerts require a Mobile Link premium subscription
Detailed Review
The listing states a 14kW whole home standby generator that automatically detects an outage and delivers backup power, with an automatic 200 Amp transfer switch, electronic fuel and ignition control, built-in cellular connectivity through the Mobile Link app, oil level sensors, and a sloped roof and rear intake that guard against ice or snow intrusion. It states compatibility with ecobee by Generac thermostats and Generac PWRcell battery systems, and a 5 Year Limited warranty. The listing notes that reviews may contain feedback based on the 14 kW Generac Guardian Home Standby Generator. A licensed electrician should install it.
Who it's for: homeowners who want whole-home backup that starts itself when the power fails. Who should skip it: anyone who wants a portable unit.
Its Solar Score of 9.7/10 comes from performance 33/35, build 22/25, value 20/25, safety 5/10 and warranty 3/5: 83 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Output | 14kW |
|---|---|
| Transfer switch | Automatic 200 Amp |
| Weight | 391.0 lb |
| Dimensions | 46.4 x 26.3 x 30.7 in |
Taken from the seller's listing on 13 November 2026. Capacity and output figures are rated by the manufacturer.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. Oil level sensors and cellular monitoring with maintenance alerts stated, so safety scores 5 of 10. 5 Year Limited warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 3 of 5. See How We Pick.
Follow the manual. Connect and use the product as the maker describes, stay within every stated rating, and read the manual before first use.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.
NOVAX 880W Bifacial Pair
A pair of 440W bifacial panels for 880W total, with 25.6% efficiency, anti-shade design, Vmp 31.67V and Voc 38.47V, and a 3.2mm tempered glass face.
Pros
- 880W total from two 440W bifacial panels
- 25.6% efficiency stated
- Up to 2.2 kWh per day under good sunlight stated
- Anti-shade design delivers up to 50% power output under partial shading
Cons
- No warranty term is stated
- No weight is stated
- Only a 1.2M MC4 extension cable is included; other adapters are not included
- Output falls to 0.1 to 0.5 kWh per day in rainy or heavily overcast conditions
Detailed Review
The listing states two 440W bifacial N-Type panels for 880W total, with anti-shade design, a rigid aluminum frame, 3.2mm tempered glass and MC4 connectors. It states Vmp 31.67V and Voc 38.47V, up to 2.2 kWh per day under good sunlight, 1.3 to 2.2 kWh per day in sunny conditions, 0.3 to 1.1 kWh per day in cloudy or low-light weather, and 0.1 to 0.5 kWh per day in rainy or heavily overcast conditions. Under partial shading it can deliver up to 50% power output. The listing says most power stations have a built-in MPPT, so no extra charge controller is required, and the package includes only a 1.2M MC4 extension cable.
Who it's for: homeowners who want a fixed pair of rigid panels for home backup, RV, cabin or shed. Who should skip it: anyone who wants a stated warranty or a folding panel.
Its Solar Score of 9.6/10 comes from performance 32/35, build 22/25, value 21/25, safety 3/10 and warranty 0/5: 78 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Total watts | 880W (2 x 440W) |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | 25.6% |
| Voltage | Vmp 31.67V, Voc 38.47V |
| Panel size | 68.0 x 45.0 x 1.5 in |
Taken from the seller's listing on 13 November 2026. Capacity and output figures are rated by the manufacturer.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. 3.2mm tempered glass and rigid aluminum frame stated, so safety scores 3 of 10. No warranty term, so warranty scores zero. See How We Pick.
Follow the manual. Connect and use the product as the maker describes, stay within every stated rating, and read the manual before first use.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.
Greenery 400W Foldable Panel
A foldable 400W monocrystalline panel at 27.5 pounds, with 23.4% efficiency, an 18V output and a 1-year warranty.
Pros
- 400W at 23.4% conversion efficiency stated
- Folds to 30.9 by 23.6 by 2.95 inches and weighs 27.5 pounds
- Operates from 14°F to 149°F stated
- Connects up to 2 panels in series with MC4 connectors
Cons
- The listing advises storing the panel indoors when not in use
- Prolonged outdoor exposure can cause the protective film to bubble and degrade
- Only a 1-year warranty is stated
- Package lists only 2ft cables, the panel and the manual
Detailed Review
The listing states a 400W monocrystalline foldable panel with 23.4% conversion efficiency, an 18V and 22.2A output, ETFE film coating, MC4 connectors, a folded size of 30.9 by 23.6 by 2.95 inches and a weight of 27.5 pounds. It states an operating range of 14°F to 149°F, output in low-light conditions, and that up to 2 panels can connect in series or multiple panels in parallel. The warranty is 1 year. The bullets name the panel Solarplay while the listing brand is Greenery. It advises storing the panel indoors when not in use, because prolonged outdoor exposure can cause the protective film to bubble and degrade.
Who it's for: RV and camping owners who want a foldable panel for a portable power station. Who should skip it: anyone who wants a fixed panel that stays outside.
Its Solar Score of 9.5/10 comes from performance 29/35, build 20/25, value 20/25, safety 3/10 and warranty 1/5: 73 of 100 points, placed on our 9.2 to 9.8 scale.
Key Specifications
| Watts | 400W |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | 23.4% |
| Weight | 27.5 lb |
| Folded size | 30.9 x 23.6 x 2.95 in |
Taken from the seller's listing on 13 November 2026. Capacity and output figures are rated by the manufacturer.
Safety and Warranty
What this listing states. Operating range of 14°F to 149°F stated, so safety scores 3 of 10. 1-year warranty stated. It does not say everything a buyer needs, such as who pays return shipping, so warranty scores 1 of 5. See How We Pick.
Follow the manual. Connect and use the product as the maker describes, stay within every stated rating, and read the manual before first use.
This is general buying information, not professional advice. Follow each product manual and local rules, and see our Safety Disclaimer.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Where the points went
The Solar Score weighs performance, build, value, safety and warranty. For backup power, safety means a CO sensor and low-oil shutdown on a fuel generator, and stated temperature limits and tempered glass on a panel. How we pick explains the weights.
| Product | Solar Score | Perf. /35 | Build /25 | Value /25 | Safety /10 | Warranty /5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse 28000W Portable | 9.7 | 33 | 22 | 21 | 8 | 2 |
| Generac 14kW Standby | 9.7 | 33 | 22 | 20 | 5 | 3 |
| NOVAX 880W Bifacial Pair | 9.6 | 32 | 22 | 21 | 3 | 0 |
| Greenery 400W Foldable Panel | 9.5 | 29 | 20 | 20 | 3 | 1 |
Every total is translated into a figure between 9.2 and 9.8 with a linear formula; ranking by points and ranking by score always agree.
How to choose the best solar panel vs generator for home backup
Match the watts to the load
Match the load to the running figure on a generator: the Westinghouse states 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts, and the Generac states 14kW. On a panel, match the load to watts and daily energy: the NOVAX states 880W and up to 2.2 kWh per day. For a fridge through an outage, see how much power generator do I need.
Decide where it will live
Panels suit a roof or cabin setup: the NOVAX pair is rigid, and the Greenery folds away for storage. Fuel generators run outdoors only, far from doors and windows, because of carbon monoxide. The Westinghouse has heavy-duty wheels and handles, while the Generac is fixed. See how to use a portable generator safely.
Check the warranty and the extras
The Generac states a 5 Year Limited warranty and the Westinghouse states a 3-year limited residential warranty, while the Greenery states a 1-year warranty. The Westinghouse transfer switch is sold separately, and the NOVAX package includes only a 1.2M MC4 extension cable. For the fuel side, dual fuel vs gas generator for home backup covers the fuel choice.
Plan for sun and fuel
Panel output follows the weather: the NOVAX states 1.3 to 2.2 kWh per day in sunny conditions and 0.1 to 0.5 kWh per day in rainy or heavily overcast conditions. Generators follow the fuel on hand: the Westinghouse runs on gasoline and the Generac listing names gas and propane.
| If you need | Look at |
|---|---|
| Power that refills from sunlight | NOVAX 880W Bifacial Pair, up to 2.2 kWh per day |
| Whole-home power that starts itself | Generac 14kW Standby, automatic 200 Amp transfer switch |
| The highest stated watts here | Westinghouse 28000W Portable, 28,000 peak watts |
| The lowest stated weight | Greenery 400W Foldable Panel, 27.5 lb |
Sizing Notes
- Match panel watts and voltage to the power station or controller input: the NOVAX states Vmp 31.67V and Voc 38.47V, and the Greenery states 18V.
- Match watt-hours to the loads you plan: the NOVAX states up to 2.2 kWh per day.
- Match the generator to the load: the Westinghouse states 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts, and the Generac states 14kW.
- Check outlet and transfer switch fit: the Generac states an automatic 200 Amp transfer switch, and the Westinghouse states 30A and 50A outlets.
- Follow the manual on cable gauge and fuses.
FAQ: power away from the grid
Which side states more watts in this comparison?
The generator side: the Westinghouse states 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts, and the Generac states 14kW, against 880W for the NOVAX and 400W for the Greenery.
Can the NOVAX panels charge a power station?
Yes, for mainstream power stations, with Vmp 31.67V and Voc 38.47V. Most power stations have a built-in MPPT, so no extra charge controller is required, but some need a matching MC4 adapter cable, which is not included.
What safety features do the generators state?
The Westinghouse states a CO sensor that shuts the generator down when elevated carbon monoxide is detected, plus automatic low-oil shutdown. The Generac states oil level sensors.
Which pick has the longest stated warranty?
The Generac, with a 5 Year Limited warranty, then the Westinghouse with a 3-year limited residential warranty and the Greenery with a 1-year warranty. The NOVAX states no warranty term.
How much power does the NOVAX pair produce per day?
Up to 2.2 kWh per day under good sunlight: 1.3 to 2.2 kWh per day in sunny conditions, 0.3 to 1.1 kWh per day in cloudy or low-light weather, and 0.1 to 0.5 kWh per day in rainy or heavily overcast conditions.
Related solar guides
See every Power Stations and Generators guide and all Solar Panels and Kits guides.
More picks: portable power station vs propane generator, what size solar generator to run refrigerator and freezer, emergency generator size calculator, solar generator calculator.
