For households today, starting with solar plus inverter is often smarter if your major loads are lights, fans, TV, laptops and a fridge. You get silent power daily and cut fuel spend. Begin with an energy audit: list loads and hours. Reduce waste with LED bulbs and efficient fans. A 1.5–3 kVA inverter with 2–4 batteries and 4–8 panels can cover essentials. Keep a small generator only as backup for heavy tools or long rainy spells. Vet installers, ask for warranty, and ensure proper earthing and surge protection. Solar is upfront cost, but the monthly savings on fuel and maintenance pay back over time. In 2025, the numbers favour starting with solar for most families.