What size lights do you have?

Generally, you don't want to run your generator at more than 85% load for a long period of time. (it's tough on the generator)

If you run 500 watt halogens with regular bulbs, then it's easy to use up the available wattage on your average generator. I have four 500 watt halogens on my boat and I'm running a 3000 watt honda.

You could go with 300 watt halogens and put more lights on a generator that way.

There is also a bulb you can buy that fits in the 500 watt housing and throws out nearly the same light.. but only draws 250 watts or so. You could run three of those bulbs off a 1000 watt generator and still have a lot of light.

I have to look around and find out what those bulbs are called. (I have to order some myself)

One other option is the new fluorescent worklights that look like the halogen work lights but only draw around 65 watts. They aren't as bright as the 300 watt halogens, but they do throw out a good amount of light. .... and at 65 watts per light, you could run them off battery power and not even need a generator.

I hope this helps!

-Christine A.