A Full Guide to Portable Solar Generators (With Advice FAQs)
Renewable energy is the fastest-growing source in the U.S. Many people are even more responsible towards mother nature. So, as the world goes green, you can participate in the movement if you use solar energy. One way to take part is to use a portable solar generator that provides mobile electricity.
Manufacturers offer various systems with different designs and features to meet your needs.
This article explains different elements that boost your knowledge and choice of portable solar generators.
What is a portable solar generator?
Portable solar power generators produce energy provided by the sun instead of fuel. The generators usually combine portable solar panels, a charge controller, a battery, and an inverter. All the components are combined in a single device to capture, store and use solar energy. Also, unlike traditional generators, solar generators don’t have movable parts.
The solar panels convert sunlight to electrical energy stored for later use. You can generate power even when the sun isn’t out. So, portable solar generators are excellent for activities like camps, where you may not access fuel. Portable solar generators are also handy during power outages and backyard DIY projects.
You can choose a generator with several outlets to power different power-dependent devices. That way, you meet all your power needs on demand. For instance, you can plug in your smartphone, camera, and an extension at the same time.
Further, portable solar generators boast top-notch safety, efficiency, simplicity, and maintenance. If cautious about wildfires and storms, you can use the generator to prepare for emergencies.
Portable solar generator market
Critical insights for the portable solar generator market include drivers and challenges, regional analysis, and the impact of the pandemic.
Market drivers and challenges
Harsh weather is responsible for a 67% increase in power outages since 2000. Failures usually happen due to storms, floods, winds, and snow. The above disasters break down power grids or cause faults in power supply components. So, more and more individuals rely on portable solar generators with panels to get a continuous power supply. You can run some household essentials like lights and a refrigerator. A portable solar generator is also handy on a job site to operate tools or run appliances during camps.
Although solar generators are cost-effective in the long run, the relatively high initial cost is a market hindrance. Also, other alternatives, like inverter technology and battery power packs, are cheaper.
Regional analysis
Businesses in the U. S continue to embrace solar generators thanks to the cost reduction in solar. Companies, too, may be compelled to convert to solar due to strict CO2 emission laws. So, the market for portable solar generators will likely expand as climatic concerns rise.
Factors like automation and tech have fuelled the European solar generator market growth. Other top market fuels are the increase in industrialization and urbanization. Besides, the region has greatly emphasized the long-term decarbonization of E.U. energy systems.
The growth in population in the Asia-pacific region creates market growth opportunities. Also, the increase in per capita energy consumption is expected to boost the solar market. Finally, as urbanization takes root, many people are expected to move to solar energy use.
The impact of the pandemic
The pandemic promoted lockdowns and work stoppages in key countries. Most businesses were hurt, and the solar generator market is no exception. A decrease in energy demand happened during the lockdown. Fortunately, demand retrieval will likely quicken the restoration of the portable solar generator market.
What are the different parts of a solar generator?
Below are the components of a solar generator and the role of each in the device’s overall function.
Solar panels
The solar panel has photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into direct current. Most solar panels connect with the generator via a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller. You can find different sizes of solar panels on the market. However, most MPPT controllers won’t allow you to connect panels that exceed voltage requirements.
Manufacturers usually pair the solar panel and generator. Nonetheless, you can find an MPPT-compatible panel from any manufacturer. What you need is to use the correct adaptors and connector cables. You must also be careful not to exceed the maximum voltage.
Battery
A solar generator stores the energy from the sun for you to use later. The battery is the storage unit and usually contains various lithium-based chemical formulations. The most common chemicals are lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and nickel manganese cobalt (NMC).
LFP batteries have a higher C-rating than NMC batteries. You also get more charge cycles and less heat from LFP batteries. So, the choice is safer and more suitable for your solar generator.
Although more common, NMC batteries have slow charge and discharge rates. So, the choice may be less efficient for a portable solar generator. On the upside, NMC batteries are more energy-dense.
Battery management system (BMS)
A battery management system regulates how your battery charges and discharges. The unit monitors and balances the current and voltage of all cells in the battery. Also, battery management shuts down the system during over-temperature and overvoltage.
For lithium-ion batteries, a battery management system is a crucial safety requirement. Lithium ions have high power density, and an overcharge can result in thermal runaway and combustion. So, a battery management system is handy in reducing the likelihood of fire and explosions.
Inverter
The inverter converts the low direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). You can then use the alternating current to power your household items. Appliances that use DC power don’t need an inverter because electricity doesn’t require conversion.
Inverters also handle the combined input wattage from AC and DC power. So, the inverter’s capacity determines your maximum solar panel capacity.
How does a portable solar generator work?
A solar generator transforms solar into electrical energy via a chain of processes. First, when the sun hits your panel, the photons knock the electrons loose from the atoms. Next, the photovoltaic cells convert electrons into DC electricity. Next, the cells continue to collect and trap atoms. Then, when free electrons are ready to flow, they generate an electric current.
Electric current passes on through a charger controller, which regulates the voltage. As a result, your battery doesn’t overwhelm or overheat. The protection also ensures the battery lasts longer.
The batteries store electricity in chemical energy until you connect an appliance. Upon plug-in, the charge passes through an inverter which transforms DC into AC electricity. Appliances like cell phones, laptops, and microwaves require DC power. For such devices, you can do without the inverter since the electricity doesn’t need conversion.
The converter also steps up the voltage rating to the suitable voltage for your appliance. For instance, assume your generator has a standard 48V, and your appliance’s rate is 120V. In such a case, the converter steps the 48V up to 120V. Afterward, the electrical current passes through the generator’s extension cord to run your appliance.
As seen above, solar generators don’t need internal combustion engines to burn fuel. Instead, the units convert sunlight into mechanical energy. As a result, the process is quieter and cleaner than gas generators. You can also move around your panels to capture as much of the sun’s power as possible.
Portable solar generators vs. Traditional gas generators
Below are the pros and cons of portable solar vs. traditional gas generators.
Solar generator pros
You enjoy the following benefits when you use solar energy.
Clean energy
Most solar materials are made of recyclable materials, e.g., glass, silicon and aluminum. Besides, solar generators don’t use fossil fuels that threaten the environment.
Portability
Solar generators are smaller and lighter than gas generators. So you don’t need much space to store or transport solar generators.
Ease of use
You don’t need to refuel the generator; instead, you install the components, and you are good. Even without electrical experience, you can operate the devices safely.
Portable solar generator con
Although a good choice, solar generators have lower energy storage. Your solar generator may not operate all your household appliances at once. So, solar generators are unsuitable if you have high power demands.
Traditional gas generator pros
You experience the following benefits with traditional generators.
Cost
Traditional gas generators’ initial price is less expensive. Nonetheless, the fuel costs pile up quickly down the line and increase the operation cost.
On-demand electricity
All you need to generate electricity is fuel and operational components. So, gas generators are ideal if instant power is your priority.
Traditional gas generator cons
The downsides of traditional generators are:
Air pollution
Gasoline and diesel fuel used in traditional gas generators pollute the air. For example, in one hour, a 1.8 kW gasoline generator can generate smog equivalent to a vehicle that has moved 150 miles.
Noise emission
Traditional gas generators produce a distinct sound during operations. So, you may have issues if you plan to use your generator in areas where silence is paramount.
Safety concerns
The flammable fumes of gas generators can cause fires upon contact with combustible materials. Gas generator accidents or misuse can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
The bottom line is; solar generators have the upper hand unless you have high power needs.
Portable solar generators vs. Larger solar generators
Portable solar power generators are small and lightweight, which makes movability simpler. You can form a larger generator from some stackable, scalable generators. You need to connect several battery storage modules to get more size and capacity.
You can use portable solar generators if you prefer an easily movable solution. For instance, if you are always on the go, you need a solution that takes up less space and is simple to carry. You can also use a solar-powered generator in a small home when the time of use rise.
Larger solar generators are big and have more weight than solar generators. So, you can’t easily move around larger generators. Fortunately, the generators have more storage capacity and a higher power rate. So, if you have higher energy demands, a larger size is crucial to provide enough power.
Larger solar generators are more suited for industrial and commercial uses. For example, warehouses and government institutions can use large generators for backup. Besides, some large generators have wheels to enhance movability.
The size of the solar generator to use depends on your needs. Commercial applications need a large size, while residential applications can do with either. For instance, if you want a generator to power the whole home, you’ll need a large one. Conversely, a small solar generator is ideal if you want a backup solution for a boat trip.
The uses of solar generators
Here are some ways to use solar generators.
To power outdoor equipment
Appliances like washing machines, pool pumps and filters, and clothes dryers make work simpler. Yet, you need a lot of power to run outdoor appliances, which translates to high utility bills. An alternative to save money spent on electricity is to use a free energy source.
Solar generators can power the appliances above and save you money. Nonetheless, large equipment consumes a lot of power, so you’ll need a high initial investment. The good part is that you won’t have to pay for electricity or high maintenance costs again.
To power indoor home appliances
Electric cookers, dishwashers, water heaters, and other indoor appliances are essential. Failure to use the devices due to power outages disrupts your home’s smooth operations. So, a good recommendation is to get a solar generator to ensure you get the needed services.
A regular-sized power generator can power your home if you have moderate size appliances. However, opt for a larger size if you have a big family or many electrical devices. Otherwise, you won’t be able to power all the machines simultaneously. Instead, you’ll have to plug in a few appliances and only power a few devices.
To power tools
Drilling and other backyard tools are vital for home DIY projects and events. You can get a medium solar generator to power the smaller devices. Portable generators are also important when you must work with power but lack outdoor sockets.
You can also use solar generators for commercial tools like those used in construction. Commercial devices consume high power, so you’ll need high storage capacity batteries and high capacity panels.
To offer a stable power supply for businesses
Electronic devices are a crucial part of communication, work, and business today. Also, with more remote work comes the need for a stable power supply. You also need continuous power to ensure you don’t face business downtimes during outages. Also, a backup keeps your items fresh even during blackouts for the perishable food industry.
Ways to charge a solar generator
Here are three charge options for your solar-powered portable generator.
Charging with solar panels
The main point of solar power generators is to be able to recharge the unit via the sun. So, the most common way to charge a solar generator is through solar panels. The panels convert the energy from the sun into electricity. For an RV road trip or camping, the use of portable solar panels is recommended since they are very lightweight.
You will need a special adapter cable, which some manufacturers include in the generator kit. The charge speed depends on the solar input power of your generator, battery size, and the number of panels.
Grid electricity
You can use grid electricity if the sun isn’t enough and you want to keep your batteries full for emergencies. To charge with electricity, plug the generator into a wall outlet like any regular appliance. It’s recommended to remember to fix the charge time once you connect the generator to the local grid.
Further, the power grid uses AC and not DC power. So, you’ll need to use a solar inverter charger when you recharge the batteries. Unfortunately, you defeat the purpose of solar panels if you still have to recharge with electricity.
Shopping for the best portable solar generator: What to consider
The best portable solar generator for you depends on your needs and preferences. The factors below guide you in choosing your ideal generator.
Storage capacity
Portable solar-powered generators have very diverse capacities. The capacity of portable solar generators is measured in watts (W) but translates to watt-hours when applied to power usage. One watt-hour means the generator can supply one watt continuously for 60 minutes.
Watt hours help you estimate how much power your generator will deliver before the need to recharge arises. A higher watt-hour means more extended periods of service or more power supply. The best portable solar generator offers enough power to meet all your energy needs.
Recharge time
You need to understand how long your exhausted generator takes to recharge. The time usually depends on the power input from the solar panels and charging speed. Your manufacturer’s documentation usually indicates the estimated recharge time.
The expected recharge time is an approximation and varies based on available solar input. During cloudy days, your portable solar generator panel doesn’t get enough direct sunlight. Factor the gray days, especially if you need power for several devices for several days. Ensure the capacity and charge rate will give you enough power for all your needs.
Efficiency
A portable solar generator kit’s efficiency determines how much you get out of your device. Find a panel that generates the most power from the available sunlight.
One way to measure efficiency is to examine the panel’s solar cell efficiency. The higher the rating, the more effective the solar panel and the more power you get under the identical radiation condition. For instance, a solar cell with an efficiency of 20% converts 20% of the sunlight that hits the panel into electrical energy.
Availability of ports
You may want to connect several devices simultaneously in the current charged-up world. Yet, not all portable solar-powered generators have more than one outlet. Shop around for a generator with more outlets if you have many appliances.
If unsure of your needs, opt for a generator with several outlets to be on the safe side. For example, you’ll need at least two outlets to charge your phone and computer. Whereas you can connect an extension, you don’t need to carry extra items in cases like boat trips.
Durability and additional features
Portable solar generators have various qualities, with different abilities to withstand stress. Durability is critical, especially if you plan to use your generator on camps and road trips. The best portable solar generator for camping is sturdy enough to endure road rigors. Even if you want a portable solar generator for your house, durability ensures long service periods.
Consider what additional features a solar generator offers that others don’t. For instance, some portable solar generators have an integrated charge controller. However, others need you to buy the controller separately. Other unique features include a flashlight, surge protection, and BMS protection. While you don’t mean to find all the special features in one product, look for a generator with desirable uniqueness.
Portable solar generators FAQs
Here are answers to common concerns about portable solar-powered generators.
Can I use my generator while it is being charged?
Yes, solar generators allow internal batteries to charge and discharge simultaneously. So, you can charge your electronics as your portable solar generator recharges. Nonetheless, the charging process will slow because energy runs out of the generator.
How many years can a portable solar generator last?
The expected lifespan of portable solar generators depends on quality and maintenance. Nonetheless, portable solar generators have few maintenance needs. For instance, protect the panel from rust and remove cobwebs in good time. Besides, the battery management system prolongs the device’s lifespan and cost-effectiveness.
Can I replace solar generator batteries?
The battery is one of the most expensive components of your solar generator. Nonetheless, since solar generators are durable, even the batteries last a long time. Nevertheless, due to the high cost of batteries, you may not want to replace older batters. In short, you can replace the battery, but a whole unit replacement is more cost-effective.
Final word
Portable solar-powered generators are effective and good for the environment. You also save funds you would otherwise use to buy fuel continuously. So, solar is the way to go if you want a backup power solution for emergencies.
Best Solar Generators
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Because they emit no carbon monoxide and don’t use flammable gasoline, solar generators are a much safer alternative to traditional gas generators. But the benefits don’t stop there—solar-powered generators are also easier to start, quieter, lower maintenance, and, of course, kinder to the environment.
Our favorite solar generator for emergency backup power is the EcoFlow Delta Pro. It combines a fast solar charge time with a generous 3.6 kWh capacity, can directly power your home’s electrical panel, and supports additional batteries for a total capacity of 25 kWh. Better yet, it’s not even the heaviest or most expensive option on our list.
Compare the top solar generators for home use
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Best solar generators reviews
EcoFlow Delta Pro: Overall best for homes
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Everything about the EcoFlow Delta Pro makes it ideal for powering your home’s essentials during an outage. It integrates directly with your existing electrical panel through EcoFlow’s Smart Home Panel (sold separately) to supply continuous power through up to 10 circuits. Even without that integration, the Delta Pro’s 15 outlets should be more than enough to get you through an emergency.
You may need more than one Delta device to reach the 10-circuit maximum capacity, but that brings us to another swoon-worthy feature of this EcoFlow line: chainability. By connecting up to six Delta generators or batteries, you can create a total of 25 kWh of power—the highest kWh rating we encountered in our research.
The Delta Pro solar generator recharges in up to six hours with four solar panels. It’ll recharge even faster if you have the opportunity to plug it into an AC adapter or an electric vehicle charging station.
Finally, the EcoFlow Delta Pro offers all of these features at one of the most affordable on the market. While it certainly still costs a solid chunk of change, you get a lot of power for the money.
Bluetti EP500Pro: Best power charge
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The Bluetti EP500Pro takes about five hours to charge over 5 kWh of power—an incredible combination of fast solar charging and high power that’s tough to find. We also love that the Bluetti offers home integration for immediate backup power during a blackout.
If you need more than 5 kWh total, it’s super easy to add another Bluetti EP500Pro with a plug-and-play fusion box.
This solar generator pairs with up to three solar panels, so it has a smaller overall footprint than other models. We love that it connects to Wi-Fi for easy firmware updates, and it even comes with an app that lets you check its power consumption and charge. Plus, there are two wireless charging pads on top of the generator.
It’s a solar generator you don’t want to take camping simply because it weighs 182 lbs. However, it has wheels to help you move it around the house if you don’t choose the integration option.
Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro: Value pick
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When equipped with a full set of six solar panels, the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro (which comes with just two solar panels) charges in under three hours and has a 3 kWh capacity after a full charge. But because it lacks a home integration system and doesn’t support daisy chaining for increased capacity, this Jackery solar generator isn’t our favorite option for emergency use. However, its price is more palatable than its competitors.
On a single charge, the Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro can run a refrigerator for up to three days. And because it recharges so quickly, you shouldn’t experience a power disruption.
Jackery also advertises this solar generator as a great option for camping, but at nearly 100 pounds, this isn’t the most portable power station. It does come with wheels and a handle for easier transportation, but that’s still a heavy weight to lift out of the car. The solar panels, on the other hand, weigh about 10 pounds each and fold for easy transportation.
Jackery sells lighter solar generators, but they all have a lower capacity than the Explorer 3000 Pro. You may want to consider a balance between power and portability when shopping for a Jackery model for camping.
Goal Zero Yeti 6000x: Best capacity
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If you’re looking to balance power and price, the Goal Zero Yeti 6000x is a great choice. With a 6 kWh capacity, it can power more appliances and devices for longer periods than any other solar generator on our list, and it’s not even the most expensive option.
The Goal Zero Yeti 6000x has one major drawback—a slow solar charge time. Even with four solar panels, it can take 35 to 70 hours to fully charge this generator. If you’re using only about a third of its power each day, then it may be sufficient to use in an emergency. Otherwise, it’s best suited for camping or short bursts of use.
Anker 555 Solar Generator: Best for basics
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When you want something to get you through a power outage in comfort but don’t need it to fully power medical equipment or the fridge, try the Anker 555 Solar Generator. Its 1 kWh can power one fan for almost a full day. But, since it features six AC outlets and takes just six hours to charge, there’ll be power to spare for other creature comforts, like the internet router.
The Anker 555 is less useful for winter power outages because it only powers a small space heater (500W max.) for less than two hours. On the plus side, it can run a CPAP machine for over 18 hours on a single charge, allowing you to get a good (and safe) night’s sleep.
This solar generator weighs nearly 30 pounds, comes with two solar panels, and features a built-in light. all of which makes it a great choice for camping too.
Final word
Because the EcoFlow Delta Pro Solar Generator recharges quickly and is capable of powering multiple appliances in your home, we think it’s the best solar generator for emergency use. To get the most out of it, purchase additional batteries and a full set of solar panels.
FAQ
The main disadvantage of solar generators is that it takes hours for them to recharge. Total charge time depends on weather conditions, your willingness to adjust the position of the panels throughout the day, and even your location on the globe.
Solar generators usually aren’t as loud as gas generators, but you may still hear some rumbling similar to the sound of a refrigerator.
You can do a little math to figure out if a generator’s watt-hour capacity meets your power needs. Watt-hours refer to the amount of Watts that it can power one hour. A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is one thousand watt-hours (Wh).
You’ll need to estimate which appliances or devices you want to power and how many watts they use in total. Then, you’ll need to divide the generator’s watt-hours by the total watts to determine how many hours the generator can power those appliances. Consider whether the appliances need to run continuously and how long it takes for the generator to reach a full charge to determine if the generator’s capacity is sufficient.
For example, let’s say you just want to power your 400 W fridge and you’re considering the 3.6 kWh EcoFlow Delta Pro solar generator. First, we can convert 3.6 kWh to 3,600 Wh (3.6 x 1,000). Then, we can divide 3,600 Wh by 400 watts to get 9 hours. In other words, the 3.6 kWh generator could power the 400 W fridge for 9 hours on a full charge.
What Is a Solar Generator
Solar generators are a popular alternative to standby and gas generators. But many people often ask questions like, what is a solar generator, whether it is worth it, etc., before they make their final purchase. In simple words, a solar generator is a portable power station that uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. The electrical energy is stored in a battery called a power station, which is then used to power appliances.
As climate change is impacting the world, people are switching to renewable energy for all their power needs. Portable solar generators emit no harmful gases and are more reliable than their fuel-powered counterparts. That is why many homeowners are switching to solar-powered generators, like Jackery Solar Generator.
The combination of Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels and Explorer Portable Power Station can help you use solar energy to charge appliances for long hours. In this solar generator ultimate guide, we will reveal everything related to the clean power solution, the differences between solar and gas generators, and how to choose the right generator.
What Is A Solar Generator
Technically, a solar generator means a power generator that works on solar energy. It is a term that refers to the combination of portable power stations and solar panels to capture, store, and distribute the sun’s power.
Most powerful and reliable solar generators are used during RV trips, emergency power backup solutions, camping, or other outdoor activities. Unlike gas generators that require diesel, propane, or gas, a solar generator comprises of:
- Portable Solar Panels
- Portable Power Station ( including Rechargeable Battery Solar Charge Controller Solar Inverter)
Different sizes and capacities of solar generators are available, ensuring you can choose the one that suits your needs without overspending.
The Components Of a Solar Generator
Now that you know what a solar generator is, it’s time to explain the critical components of the system.
Solar Panels
Also referred to as photovoltaic cells, solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. Solar generators use portable and foldable solar panels to differentiate them from rooftop panels.
Charge Controller
When the electricity is generated by the solar panels, the first component it reaches is the charge controller (or regulator). As solar energy is generated at variable rates, the charge controller’s job is to shape and condition electricity to avoid overcharging. The highly efficient solar generators are equipped with MPPT technology that ensures nothing is damaged when power flows through the system.
Another core component of the portable solar generator is an inverter that turns direct current output from solar panels to alternating current. The job of the inverter is to draw energy from the solar system and transport it to appliances.
Solar Battery
The electricity generated by solar panels is stored in the solar battery until it’s needed. Most modern solar generators have an in-built lithium-ion battery to store current collected by solar panels.
The Usage Of A Solar Generator
A solar generator can be used in multiple ways, including but not limited to:
- Emergency Backup Supply: Frequent power outages and emergencies are the main reasons homeowners choose solar power systems. A reliable and efficient solar solution can power essential appliances like medical equipment, refrigerators, lights, etc.
- Off-Grid Living: Solar generators with high-capacity batteries can help you enjoy off-grid living. With a high-power solar generator, you can charge small and large appliances and keep them running for hours.
- Outdoor Activities: As solar generators are portable, they are a perfect charging companion for camping, hiking, RV trips, or outdoor activities.
- Sustainable Living: Homeowners wanting to choose a sustainable and eco-friendly power source can switch to solar generators. They can reduce electricity bills, lower reliance on fossil fuels, etc., by harnessing the sun’s power.
How Does A Solar Generator Work
A portable solar generator works when a solar panel converts sunlight into usable energy, which is electricity. Solar panels collect the sun’s energy during the daytime and transfer it to the battery storage system. Compact and transportable solar generators are convenient power solutions that charge appliances anywhere.
Here is the breakdown of the process:
- Solar panels convert sunlight into DC electricity which then passes through the charge controller.
- The charge controller regulates electricity voltage before storage, ensuring the proper current flow to the battery.
- The built-in battery stores all the power to charge the electrical devices later.
- The inverter converts DC to AC power to power most appliances and devices for hours.
The Types Of Solar Generators
Below are the three main types of solar generators.
On-Grid Solar Generator
This type of generator connects to the power grid to charge appliances. Solar panels capture sunlight to transform it into electricity in the form of DC. Then, the direct current is converted to AC in the power board. The board transfers electricity to power homes and buildings.
Also referred to as standalone or autonomous solar generators, they involve using batteries powered by solar panels. They are portable solar generators that can be carried during leisure travels, RV trips, etc.
Hybrid Solar Generator
This new-age solar generator is a combination of traditional generators with a controllable power source. The environment-friendly and fuel-efficient power supply source is preferred in areas where there is little access to petrol, LPG, or diesel.
Why Choose Solar Generators
Many benefits are available when you choose solar generators, especially compared to fuel-powered or traditional gas-powered generators. Here are some key benefits of solar generators.
Solar generators are lightweight and more portable than non-solar generators. It is a convenient power solution that allows you to supply power anywhere and everywhere. Portable generators are popular when living off-grid, traveling in an RV, or camping.
Another best thing about solar generators is that they are quiet. Traditional gas generators are often noisy and can be particularly annoying in small spaces like RVs, tiny homes, etc. Alternatively, solar generators are quiet and ideal for indoors.
Eco-Friendly
Unlike conventional diesel or gas generators that require fossil fuels, solar energy is a low-emission, renewable energy source. As no pollutants are emitted from a solar generator, it is an eco-friendly and low-cost option.
Low Maintenance
Solar generators need little to no maintenance. You can just remove dust to enhance photon absorption. Furthermore, there are no moving components, so you don’t have to FOCUS on machine part replacement.
Solar Generator Vs. Traditional Generator
Solar generators and traditional generators are two widely popular power solutions available. However, they are entirely different from each other.
Let’s quickly compare solar and gas generators in the table.
– Low maintenance and quiet solution
– Lightweight and sleek design
– Cannot generate electricity at night
– High maintenance required
Here we compare both generators in detail, so you can make an informed decision.
Pros and Cons of Solar Generator
Below we have explained the pros and cons of solar generators.
- Compared to traditional gas generators, solar generators are portable. They are ideal for camping, emergencies, outdoor events, and general on-the-go activities.
- They are even equipped with easy-to-carry handles to enhance portability and convenience.
- Solar generators do not have any moving parts like gas generators. Therefore, they have fewer chances of repair and require low maintenance.
- They generate clean, renewable energy that does not hurt the environment while running.
- Solar generators typically require high upfront costs.
- Solar batteries can be recharged only when solar energy is available.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Generator
Generators powered by fossil fuels are technically known as traditional generators. Below we have mentioned some of the main advantages and disadvantages of conventional generators.
- Traditional generators produce electricity on demand. That is, you can produce electricity as soon as they receive fuel.
- Different sizes of gas generators are available in the market, making them a little portable. However, you’ll need to carry gasoline, making them less convenient than solar generators.
- As they have been on the market for years, traditional generators are more familiar to people and have high market dominance.
- Traditional generators require costly fuel, which increases long-term costs.
- They emit toxic gases like carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, and sulfur oxides, leading to pollution.
- Because of the moving parts in the gas generators, they are extremely noisy. Thus, they are not suitable indoors or in small places like RVs.
- Gas generators require regular maintenance as they have moving parts. You need to clean, oil, and replace them over time, leading to high maintenance costs.
As you see, solar generators have more advantages compared to gas generators.
How To Choose a Solar Generator
Understanding “what is a portable solar generator” is not enough; it’s essential to understand the factors to consider while choosing a solar generator. Since not all portable solar generators are the same, you must check out their features to select the ideal generator.
Battery Storage Capacity
No matter your use case, choosing a solar generator with a high battery storage capacity is vital. When the solar generator has a high capacity, you can store more power for later use. This, in turn, ensures that you have easy access to solar power during emergency blackouts or outdoor trips.
Pure Sine Wave Inverter
These devices transform power from a battery into energy that resembles that of the wall outlet. The primary aim of the sine wave inverter is to convert the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). A solar generator equipped with pure sine wave inverter supplies exact voltage, ensuring that the sensitive electronic devices are safe.
Lithium-Ion Battery
Portable electronic devices like solar generators should have lithium-ion batteries. Choosing a solar-powered system with a high-quality lithium-ion battery ensures you can charge appliances safely and without overheating.
No matter what your reason is behind choosing the solar generator, a little bit of research ensures that you spend your money on the right product.
Why Jackery Solar Generator
Portable solar generators are the best way to use the sun’s energy and power your gear. Jackery is a leading brand that manufactures high-quality SolarSaga Solar Panels and Explorer Portable Power Stations.
You can select from a vast range of solar generators available, depending on the number of appliances you wish to charge. Jackery Solar Generators are quiet, portable, and affordable, ensuring maximum sunlight is converted into electricity.
Here are a few main benefits of Jackery Solar Generators over other similar products on the market.
Reliability: Jackery offers the most reliable solar generators with advanced features. Equipped with a high-capacity battery, they are powerful enough to support RV, van, and cabin life.
Ease of Use: Even if you are using a solar generator for the first time, you won’t regret investing in Jackery Solar Generators. The plug-and-play operation helps you pair Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels with Explorer Portable Power Station in a few clicks.
Lightweight: All the Jackery Solar Generators are portable, making them ideal for outdoor activities or off-grid living. Whether you plan to go camping or RV, you can take your solar generator with you.
Cost-Efficient: Jackery Solar Generator offers excellent value for your money. Furthermore, the wide range of sizes available makes them excellent options for those having different budgets.
Efficient Panels: Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels have the highest efficiency. That is, the panels can absorb maximum solar energy in less time. In addition, they feature adjustable kickstands that help you adjust the panels and generate maximum power output.
Now that you know the pros of solar generators, here are the most popular bundles available.
Recharging Time
Zendure Solar Generator
A portable solar generator is a combination of a power station and a solar panel. It can convert sun energy captured by solar panels into electrical power and then stores it in a portable power station for later use. It can provide you with renewable clean energy and reduce your dependence on the electrical grid. In addition, a solar generator is also a reliable and clean power source for campers, RVs, or as an emergency backup if your power goes out.
Zendure SuperBase V Solar Generator
SuperBase V Portable Power Station Zendure 400W Solar Panel
Starts at 5,599.00
Zendure SuperBase M Solar Generator
SuperBase M Portable Power Station Zendure 200W Solar Panel
Starts at 999.00
How Does A Solar Generator Work?
A solar generator works by capturing solar energy with solar panels and storing it in a solar battery or portable power station. Zendure solar generators convert DC into AC electricity to power your devices and appliances both indoors and outdoors.
FAQ
Solar generators work by storing the electricity generated by the solar panels. Solar panels convert solar energy into the free electricity which is stored into the battery in a generator via wires.
Of course, the general high-power appliances ratting is between 800-2000W, so it is recommended to choose Zendure SBPSBV, SBP can output 2000W and SBV can output 3800W ,which can completely meet the needs of high-power equipment in life.
Yes, solar generators are safe than fuel generators. First, solar generators don’t produce harmful gases,such an co.Second, they don’t need fuel oil to generate electricity,which is more environmentally friendly.Third, Zendure’s solar generators have a real-time monitoring BMS battery management system to ensure safety.
Solar generators have many benefits. It can use solar panel to get free electricity, saving you money. It’s also not as noisy as a fuel generator, which doesn’t disturb your life. Solar generators provide a safe, renewable way to keep your equipment and appliances running when you need them. whether during a power off, off-grid or a trips to remote areas. Solar generators are clean, efficient,convenient and versatile, which help clarifying their growing popularity.
The Fuel generator is not only noisy, but also produces harmful gas, which with expensive maintenance is not suitable for indoor use. Solar generator without maintenance is low noise, more portable,small and suitable for indoor use.
Some of our solar generators can be used as UPS. For details, you can ask a customer service help. For example, the SuperBase Pro 2000 can be used as an offline UPS that automatically switches to SBP power supply mode within 13ms when there is a sudden power off.
The devices and appliances you can run depend on the generator’s capacity. Lower wattage generators like the portable Zendure SuperBase M with a 600Wh capacity can power your smaller devices, such as laptops and smartphones. To power larger appliances, like a refrigerator, you will need a higher capacity generator like the SuperBase V, which has a starting capacity of 4.6kWh that you can expand up to 46kWh.
Zendure current solar generators support a variety of charging methods. For example, the SBV 4600 can be recharged by grid ,solar panels,satellite battery，EV charging pile ，car charger and generator.
The recharging time depends on the capacity of the solar generator and the power of the solar panel input. For example,Zendure SuperBasePro 1500 has a capacity of 1500Wh, which takes about 1.6 hours to fully charge with three 400W solar panels in series.
When people talk about the ‘size’ of a solar generator, they generally mean its power capacity. The capacity is most often measured via their wattage. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a generator with almost double the capacity you need to ensure you have sufficient power even during a prolonged blackout.
Depending on the brand and the quality of the battery, you can expect a solar generator to last years. For example, the Zendure SuperBase V4600 uses a state-of-the-art LFP battery, which will last for 6000 cycles before reaching 60% of its original capacity.