| Technology | Pros | Cons | Cost per kWh (cents) |
| Diesel Generator | Technology and infrastructure already exists | Combustion leads to pollution and contributes to global warming Non-renewable and unsustainable Aesthetically intrusive (noise and smell) |
4 |
| Propane | Technology and infrastructure already exists Combustion less polluting than diesel |
Combustion leads to pollution and contributes to global warming Non-renewable and unsustainable |
4 |
| Biofuels | Minor or no modifications needed to use in conventional diesel engines Renewable Clean burning |
Ethanol fuel production results in a net loss of energy Direct competition with land use for food production |
4 |
| Solar | Produces no waste or pollution Renewable Cost steadily falling and production of power is rising More efficient than biofuels |
Not available at night unless battery storage is incorporated Produces less energy in winter Solar panels collect dust and snow and must be maintained |
20 (technologies available in the near future may reduce this to 3.5) |
| Micro-hydro | Produces no waste or pollution Renewable |
Requires sufficient and constant annual water flow Not every site is suitable |
8 |
| Wind | Produces no waste or pollution Renewable New designs can withstand heavy winds and gusts Suitable for most locations |
Aesthetics considered undesirable Noisy Wind turbines with small blades may negatively affect birds |
5 |
| Thermoelectric | More efficient than solar and substantially cheaper | Electrical potential is small | 9 |
The costs per kWh include the costs of manufacture, shipping, installation, fuel, maintenance, environmental costs and decommissioning (unless otherwise indicated), but do not include costs to transport from road to backcountry.