Generator Installation in Charleston, SC

In Charleston, a whole-house standby generator (18–26 kW) typically runs $10,000–$20,000 installed, including the transfer switch, gas connection, pad and permits. A smaller essentials-only unit (10–14 kW) runs $8,000–$13,000. A portable generator with an interlock kit is the budget option at $800–$2,000.

Almost everywhere, yes. A standby generator needs an electrical permit and usually a gas/plumbing permit, and most states require the work be done by a licensed contractor. A reputable Charleston installer pulls the permit for you — treat anyone who offers to skip it as a red flag, since unpermitted work surfaces at resale and can void insurance claims.

Licensed electricians and specialized generator dealers handle installation. A standby generator also needs a gas connection, so many jobs involve both an electrician and a plumbing contractor — dealers coordinate both.

Dominion Energy customers averaged 32 hours without power in 2024 — 2.9× the US average, the 5th-worst of the 58 metros we track. Charleston sits between hurricane and ice-storm risk — both cause multi-day outages across the Carolinas, and demand for home backup power has climbed sharply.