> Generators don’t work that well. They need regular use and maintenance.

So do lawnmowers and chainsaws.

>Fuel storage is complicated (you will need 30+ gallons a day, or about 2 sedan tank’s worth.

You put it in containers and put them in your garage.

>Connecting to your panel is expensive at least $2k+.

You don't have to do that. Just run some extension cords through your house.

> They are smelly and noisy.

So is everyone after a couple of days in the South without air conditioning!

> And if it’s a real emergency, everyone will know you have one , and eventually come knocking.

This is a feature, not a bug. It's how communities take care of each other.