Generator Cost Calculator South Africa 2026
Calculate the running cost of a backup generator
Fuel prices and consumption rates are approximate. Petrol/diesel prices change monthly in SA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fuel does a generator use?
A diesel generator uses approximately 0.3-0.4 litres per kWh. A 5kVA generator at 75% load consumes about 1.2 litres per hour.
Generator vs solar backup?
Generators have lower upfront cost (R5,000-R50,000) but higher running costs. Solar+battery needs R30,000-R150,000 upfront but near-zero running costs. Solar pays off in 3-5 years.
How often should I service my generator?
Service every 100-250 running hours or every 6 months, whichever comes first. A typical service costs R1,500-R3,000.