"Buddy was great running electric to our shop and installing a new panel box and lights and electrical outlets. He went above and beyond and did extra work but did not charge any more than what he quoted us. He's our go-to for any electrical service we need in the future"
Family owned and operated since 1985 serving Cozad and the surrounding areas. We have extensive experience serving agricultural, industrial, and residential customers. 40 plus years of combined experience for installations and service calls. We have all the latest locating equipment including infrared camera, backhoe, trencher, digger derrick, power quality recorder, labeler, ground resistance tester, cable trigger, computerized conduit bender, threading equipment, PVC bender. We also have a large supply of in stock parts and electric motors.
Generators run on a variety of fuel types, ranging from natural gas to solar power. Keep in mind that fuel costs varying by type:
Natural gas: $2,000–$21,000 per year
Liquid propane: $2,000–$21,000 per year
Diesel: $3,000–$20,000 per year
Gasoline: $500–$3,000 per year
Solar generator: $2,000–$25,000 per unit
Battery backup: $10,000–$25,000 per unit
Setting up utilities on a vacant property usually takes at least a few months, or between 6 weeks to 16 weeks. This process requires working with the local planning and zoning department, hiring a building contractor or engineer to design the utility layout, securing permits, laying the lines, and connecting the utilities.
Yes, in most municipalities, you will need a permit to install a permanent home generator, including emergency backup, partial-home, and whole-home models. Because these installations involve significant alterations to your home's electrical system and produce exhaust fumes, local governments often require a permit or inspection for safety purposes. A generator permit typically costs between $50 and $250, depending on your location. Your electrician or certified installer can usually handle the permitting process for you, but you will be responsible for the cost. It's a good practice to confirm with your installer that they will pull all necessary permits before work begins.
You can expect a diesel generator to last for up to 30,000 hours of use, which works out to 20 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, of course. That depends on how much you use it, so a diesel generator used for emergencies a couple of times a year will last a lot longer than a generator that takes over for a faulty electrical grid every month for a day or two.
Generators are usually sized by running watts and starting watts. Ideally, you’ll want a generator that can offer both the necessary running watts and starting watts for everything you need to power without going beyond 90% of its capacity. Calculate your home’s electrical load based on the breakers in your home or adding up the appliance and lighting needs of connected rooms.
The Curtis, NE homeowners’ guide to generator installs
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Natural gas generators are whole-home standby generators that are connected to your home’s natural gas line. The average cost for a natural gas generator is $12,000.
Generators should give you peace of mind, but you’ll only get that if your installer knows what they’re doing. Learn how to hire a pro and what red flags to look for.
Thinking about a generator installation? Learn about backup power options, costs to expect, and how to hire the right local pro to keep your home running.