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How Much Does a 50 kVA Generator Cost?
Used 50 kVA diesel generators typically cost $8,000 to $13,000, with low-hour and fully enclosed sets toward the top of the range.
A 50 kVA set is a popular mid-size rating that covers small facilities, job sites, and standby backup for a shop. At a fixed rating the price swing comes down to hours, enclosure, and controls rather than raw output. The ranges below reflect inspected used sets from Caterpillar, Atlas Copco, and comparable industrial brands.
Price by type
| Type | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open-skid 50 kVA (higher hours) | $8,000–$10,000 | Bare-frame set for indoor or sheltered installs; value entry point. |
| Enclosed 50 kVA (standard) | $10,000–$12,000 | Weatherproof, sound-attenuated canopy for outdoor use. |
| Enclosed 50 kVA (low hour) | $11,500–$13,000 | Low-hour sets with clean service records. |
| 50 kVA with auto-start / ATS-ready | $12,000–$13,000 | Auto-start controller and transfer-switch readiness for standby duty. |
What affects the price
Engine hours
At a fixed 50 kVA rating, hours become the leading price driver. Lower-hour sets command a premium.
Open skid vs enclosed
A sound-attenuated weatherproof enclosure adds cost but is usually required for outdoor or occupied sites.
Prime vs standby duty
A set rated for continuous prime power is worth more than a standby-only unit of the same size.
Controls and auto-start
Auto-start controllers and transfer-switch readiness add value for backup applications.
Fuel tank
An integral base fuel tank adds runtime and convenience, nudging the price up.
Bottom line
A used 50 kVA diesel set lands between roughly $8,000 and $13,000, with the gap set mostly by hours and whether it is enclosed and auto-start ready. Confirm 50 kVA genuinely covers your peak load with headroom before buying. Share your load profile and we will quote a matched set.
Shop diesel generatorsCost FAQs
What can a 50 kVA generator power?
At around 40 kW of real power, a 50 kVA set can run a small facility, a bank of shop tools, HVAC, lighting, and office loads. Motor starting surge should be included when you size it.
How much fuel does a 50 kVA generator use?
At about three-quarters load a 50 kVA diesel burns roughly 2.5 to 3.5 gallons per hour. Actual use depends on load, so lighter loads consume noticeably less.
Is 50 kVA enough for my shop?
For many small shops, yes, but it depends on your largest motor loads and whether they start together. Add 20 to 25 percent headroom over your measured peak, and we can help confirm the fit.
Prices shown are item prices from PowerHouse Equipment; freight delivery is quoted to your ZIP at checkout.