Are you using a basic Generator? Or something different?
Also, what else is hooked up to the same power grid? If you have something with more than Low Voltage (LV) you will need to utilize a LV Transformer.
Best of Luck,
JB
its a regular generator with a macerator, recycler, compresser, and electric furnace
Also, as it hasn't been mentioned yet, make sure you're using Copper Cables or above to connect.
You can pretty much use any sort of cable because I've got my recycler hooked up to a geothermal generator with HV double insulated and that works fine + if you haven't got resources to burn it can be use ful to upgrade to a Geothermal generator. Just get a 3x3x1 pool of lava, place a buildcraft pump on top,power it and have waterproof pipes leading to your g generator, hook it up with cables to your machine,power your pump and Voila! Electricity.
Note this only works for LV machines
Only your macerator?
If you want early and cheap energy, make a jungle tree farm :) If you use the MineFactory Reloaded mod, easier it is.