The engine of a standby generator is a lot like a car engine. Although you need fuel to make the engine run, you also have to have a battery that runs the electronic components. ... So essentially, the generator does start with the battery, as it wouldn't be able to start without it.

What does the battery do on a generator?

Role of Batteries

The main role of an emergency generator batteries is to provide power to the generator engine starter with power when a facility power outage occurs. Depending on the configuration of the generator system setup, batteries can also provide: Power to the digital control panel.

Can a diesel generator run without a battery?

it will run without an alternator....but not without a battery. you need to keep 12 volts going to the fuel stop solenoid on the injection pump. As long as you have that you're good to go.