The difference between gas powered and electric generators is fairly simple. Gas powered generators use an engine to turn an alternator, which produces electricity. Basically, a rotator creates a magnetic field around a group of coils, which then creates power. An electric generator is basically a large-capacity battery that stores energy for later use. You’ll plug it in and charge it in some way, using a wall outlet at home, for example. Or it might be part of a solar generator system that utilizes solar panels to produce electricity. Either way, the electric generator doesn’t produce energy like a gas-powered generator.