Why don't the gas stations have generators that draw on their big tanks and power their pumps? The only excuse I can think of is that the added cost would either cut into their narrow profit margin or require them to raise gas prices above their non-generator competition. I don't want a government mandate, but how about cutting a penny or so off the state or federal gas taxes for generator backed up stations??? Depending on the size of the cut you'd either get just enough generator for the pumps and cash register or generators large enough to power their minimarts, etc.
Good question. Could be a law prohibiting electrical devices like generators being used to pump a volitale fluid such s gasoline.