Bluetti solar generator expert review: choose the right one for you
Bluetti is a 3-year-old brand that primarily makes portable solar generators, battery backup systems, and foldable solar panels. Their products use LiFePO4 battery technology, which is currently regarded as the best kind of lithium battery on the market and has proven quite popular in the DIY and van life communities, allowing people to power important devices and appliances in off-grid situations.
We recently tested some Bluetti products to see how well they use solar power to keep the batteries charged and ready to deliver power to all sorts of energy-hungry devices. We found our Bluetti power bank and solar panel to be up to many important jobs around the yard, the house, and even in the wilderness.
Here’s a full review of Bluetti products and more information on all their uses.
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Key takeaways
- Bluetti solar generators use lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology that is safer and longer lasting than other designs of lithium batteries.
- The company offers many battery products in capacities ranging from 268 watt-hours to 12.3 kilowatt-hours.
- Most Bluetti batteries are portable and all come with the ability to charge from solar panels, which the company also makes.
- The company offers warranties of 24 months for its smaller portable solar generators and up to five years for its large home backup solutions.
- With the wide range of options available, robust build quality, and great technology behind it all, SolarReviews recommends Bluetti products.
Bluetti’s technology
Bluetti’s key value proposition comes from its use of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries. This combination of chemicals (LiFePO4, or LFP for short) makes Bluetti’s batteries more stable, longer lasting, and less environmentally harmful than typical lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries used by other popular solar generators. Bluetti says its LFP batteries can be cycled 2,500 (EB series) to 3,500 (AC and B series) times before being reduced to 80% of their original capacity, compared to other brands’ 500-cycle lifespan.
The next feature common to Bluetti’s Portable Power Stations is solar input. From the entry-level EB3A to the flagship AC200P, comes with an MPPT solar charge controller built-in, allowing the battery to get the most from solar panels. Bluetti makes its own foldable solar panel, but also provides standard MC4 connections so any compatible solar array can be used to charge its batteries (with allowable input wattage that differs for each of its products).
Finally, Bluetti includes a pure sine wave inverter in each of its batteries and provides multiple DC and AC outlets to provide options for powering devices. Typical outlets include USB-A, USB-C, 120V AC, and 12V DC. In addition, all Bluetti Portable Power Stations come with 15W wireless charging pads built into the top of the unit.
How a Bluetti Solar generator works
In order to provide a good review of Bluetti’s Portable Power Stations, we purchased a Bluetti EB55 along with a PV120 foldable solar panel. With this pair of products, you can provide power to numerous devices away from home, and even provide yourself some peace of mind in the event of a power outage.
We found the EB55 to be a well-built, capable and versatile piece of equipment. It is an excellent option for people who need power on the go, whether it’s in an off-grid camping setting, as an RV accessory, or even just a fun day at the park or beach.
Bluetti EB55 Details
The EB55 has 537 watt-hours (Wh) of storage capacity and can output 700W of continuous power (1,400W surge). That’s not enough power to start an air conditioner, but it is enough to run a full-sized refrigerator for a few hours during a power outage, or several smaller appliances for a full day, even without recharging.
Accessories that come with the Bluetti EB55 (L to R): solar charging cable, DC charging cable, AC cord, velcro strap, and power brick.
Inside the box, the EB55 comes with an AC power supply, a cable for charging from a vehicle’s DC outlet, and a cable for charging from solar panels. The EB55 has 12 outlets:
- Four USB-A
- One USB-C
- Two grounded and two ungrounded 120V AC outputs
- Two 12V/10A DC
- One 12V DC cigarette lighter outlet
The unit is a compact 10.94 x 7.87 x 7.79 inches and weighs in at 16.5 lbs, with a foldable carrying handle on top. There is a built-in cooling fan with vents on the side of the unit, and a small backlit LCD screen on the front that displays the state of charge and input/output wattage using two shades of blue.
Charging
The Bluetti EB55 can charge from AC power with the included power brick, DC power from the solar panels, or both at the same time. It can also be charged using a 12V DC output from a vehicle or from a generator. Charging power is up to 200W from AC or solar, or 400W from both AC and solar at the same time.
In our tests, Bluetti’s 120W solar panel delivered its maximum power to the EB55 effortlessly under full sun on a warm day. The solar panel is about 2 feet high by 6 feet wide, with four sections that fold out from the stored position. On the back of these sections are thin “legs” that fold away from the main body and allow the user to adjust the angle at which the panel is placed relative to the ground, between 40° and 50°.
Features of the Bluetti PV120 solar panel: fully folded, zippered pouch with wires, adjustable leg.
The whole solar panel is clad in ripstop-style polyester fabric, with a hard plastic handle at one end that is used for carrying the panel when it’s folded up. The solar sections themselves are laminated inside Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) sheets, which allows them to be flexible and resist fading and cracking due to high temperatures and UV radiation. A zippered pouch on the back of one section contains the cables and a list of specifications.
The fully-extended PV120 solar panel.
We’d recommend keeping the battery out of full sun because it heats up when charging.
Thankfully, the EB55 comes with a 5.5-foot solar charging cable with MC4 connectors, and the PV120 panel comes with its own 9.5-foot cable, making it easy to place the panel in the sun and the battery somewhere nearby in the shade. And because Bluetti uses standard solar connectors, additional cables can be purchased online from a variety of sources if you need more than 15 feet between the panel and the battery.
A word of caution: Bluetti solar panels are IP65 rated, meaning they can handle a little splash of water, but can’t withstand rain and snow. Only put them out on a dry day.
In testing the AC charging, we easily got the promised 200W from the charger, although it should be noted that the charging brick has its own internal cooling fan that can get a little noisy, so it’s best to charge it out of earshot. Either the AC adapter or the solar input is capable of filling the EB55’s 537 Wh of storage in about 3 hours from empty, and combining solar and AC together can increase the power to 400W, decreasing charging time down to just 1.8 hours.
Using Power
In our tests, the EB55 was capable of powering many important appliances and devices, and we recommend it for medium-light duty applications like phone and laptop charging, camping, or even for short-duration events like small concerts in the park where no power is available.
We tested our EB55 in a few ways: powering a small outdoor pool pump, running live sound through a PA speaker, and running a full-size refrigerator. In all these tests, the EB55 performed very well.
The Bluetti EB55 running a pool pump.
With its 537 Wh of battery capacity, it could theoretically run the 33W pool pump for 16 hours, even without solar recharging. At medium volumes, the PA speaker and some guitar pedals used 25W. Imagine an afternoon pool party with a rock Band at a remote location run entirely by one Bluetti EB55 battery. All you’d need is transportation and a water source.
Closer to home, the refrigerator drew between 105W and 220W, depending on the cycle it was running, so it could be kept running for 3 hours or more during a power outage. If you add 4 hours of solar charging at an average of around 100W, you could extend that time to six hours or more. By plugging in the fridge only sporadically, you could theoretically keep food cold for days during a power outage using a single EB55 and solar panel, and probably have enough energy left over to keep your phone topped off.
Because of its LiFePO4 battery cell chemistry, the Bluetti should be able to fully charge and discharge 2,500 times, which could mean several years of power even with twice daily cycling. That many cycles should still leave the battery at 80% of its original capacity.
It’s a pretty remarkable little battery, and well worth its 499 MSRP. But the EB55 is one of the smallest capacity batteries Bluetti offers, and some of the company’s products can do much more than keep your food cold for a few hours.
Bluetti product comparison
Now let’s look at some of the key specifications of Bluetti’s product lineup. The company has offerings as small as the entry-level EB3A with a 268 Wh battery pack and as large as the expandable AC300 inverter module, which doesn’t come with its own battery but can instead be paired with up to four B300 expansion batteries for 12.3 kWh of storage. That’s nearly as large as a Tesla Powerwall.
The smaller, more portable power stations (basically anything that will fit in Bluetti’s carrying case) are fairly simple; just boxes with batteries, inputs, and output ports, while the larger offerings like the Bluetti AC200MAX and AC300 come with Bluetooth and can be controlled via the Bluetti smartphone app (the newer, small EB3A is also app-enabled). For very large battery backup needs, two AC300 inverter modules can be paired with Bluetti’s AC300 Fusion Box for a 240V system with up to 24.5 kWh of storage.
Here’s a rundown of Bluetti’s portable models and their key specs:
| Product | Capacity | Output (surge) | Max input W | # of outlets | Expandable | Max capacity |
| EB3A | 268 Wh | 600W (1,200W) | 430W SolarAC | 9 | N | N/A |
| EB55 | 537 Wh | 700W (1,400W) | 400W SolarAC | 12 | N | N/A |
| EB70S | 716 Wh | 800W (1,400W) | 200W Solar/AC | 12 | N | N/A |
| AC200P | 2,000 Wh | 2,000W (4,800W) | 1,200W SolarAC | 17 | N | N/A |
| AC300 inverter module | N/A | 3,000W (6,000W) | 5,400W SolarAC | 16 | Y | 12,288 Wh |
| AC200MAX | 2,048 Wh | 2,200W (4,800W) | 1,300W SolarAC | 15 | Y | 8,192 Wh |
| B230 expansion battery | 2,048 Wh | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| B300 expansion battery | 3,071 Wh | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Cost
Like a lot of technology products you can find on Amazon, Bluetti products often go on sale, and people looking for the company’s products can often find coupons and discount codes online. For reference, here are the MSRPs of the most popular Bluetti products:
- EB3A: 299
- EB55: 499
- EB70S: 599
- AC200P: 1,699
- AC300 inverter module: 1,899
- AC200MAX: 1,899
- B230 expansion battery: 1,399
- B300 expansion battery: 2,199
- PV120 solar panel: 299
- PV200 solar panel: 499
- PV350 solar panel: 849
Bluetti battery warranties
The warranty is where portable batteries like Bluetti falter a bit compared to purpose-built home solar batteries. The warranty for most Bluetti products covers just 24 months of defects due to materials and workmanship. These products are designed to last for a long time, but the manufacturer doesn’t offer long-term coverage for most of its products.
That said, if you spring for the AC300 with one or more B300 expansion batteries, Bluetti offers 48 months of warranty coverage. Larger home battery backup systems like the EP500Pro come with 5-year warranties. These don’t quite match the 10-year warranties offered by companies like Generac and LG, so if you’re concerned about long-term coverage, one of those battery solutions might be better for you.
Ironically, Generac and LG use lithium NMC batteries, so the Bluetti should theoretically outlast them. Bluetti says its EB-series batteries will last for 2,500 cycles before being reduced to 80% of their original capacity, and its AC- and B-series batteries get estimates of 3,500 cycles before hitting 80%. Assuming one full cycle per day, that’s over 9 years.
How does Bluetti compare to the competition?
When it comes to the best solar generators, Bluetti is among the top contenders. Its LFP battery cells are rated to last five times as long as products from main competitors Jackery and GoalZero, and its products are every bit as durable and easy to use.
With 48-60 month warranties on its flagship products, Bluetti exceeds the standards set by its competitors, which almost all offer only 24 months of coverage. To be fair, their 500-cycle lifespans will almost certainly be up within those 24 months of regular usage, so Bluetti has a chance to extend its warranties and further set itself apart from Jackery, GoalZero, and others. We hope to see that as Bluetti products spend more time in the wild and prove their durability.
Which Bluetti product is right for you?
If you’re on the go and need to keep small appliances powered in an off-grid situation, the EB55 is an excellent choice. If you just want to keep your phone charged in the wilderness, the new EB3A is a great, inexpensive option.
For longer trips and cabin stays, the AC200P provides a robust amount of energy storage and power output that could keep an off-grid cabin very comfortable, especially when paired with a few Bluetti solar panels wired in series.
For home backup applications, we recommend the EP500 Pro over the AC300 with expansion batteries, simply because of the form factor and the 5-year warranty. If Bluetti ever increases its warranty protection for its modular batteries, we’ll update that recommendation accordingly.
Bottom line: are Bluetti products good?
Bluetti’s batteries and solar panels compare favorably with the majority of other portable solutions on the market. The LFP batteries and ETFE-clad solar panels are powerful and well-built products designed for a life lived outside of the boundaries of the electric grid. On top of that, Bluetti meets or exceeds industry standards for portable devices with 2-5 year warranties on its products.
One caveat here is that the company is still only a few years old, and it remains to be seen whether its batteries will match the estimated 2,500-cycle lifespans, and whether the company will prove adept at handling customer complaints if they don’t. But the tech is solid, the products are proving popular and well-liked, and Bluetti reps actively engage customers through multiple channels, including an owners’ group. The company seems to be doing things right.
Another caveat is that Bluetti’s solar panels aren’t as robust as actual home solar panels. For example, they aren’t designed to be outside in the rain and snow. If you’re looking for something to act as a fixture on your home or even off-grid cabin, real roof- or ground-mounted solar panels are much more robust, and can survive the weather for decades. And you can still use Bluetti battery backup with a well-designed solar installation.
The Bluetti PV120; SolarReviews and Bowie-approved.
Regardless of the caveats, Bluetti is making some great products. If you’re looking for a way to keep important devices powered up while in the wilderness, Bluetti batteries and solar panels have our recommendation.
Geneverse HomePower One solar-powered generator review
Credit: Reviewed / Jean Levasseur
Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.
Cons
Editor’s Note: Generark is now Geneverse.
Power outages happen everywhere. While usually the consequences are as minor as not being able to check for a few minutes, long-lasting power outages can have costly and potentially deadly results. On site, portable power generation is a great way to keep your home and family safe when the electricity cuts out, whether for a few hours, days, or weeks.
Traditional on-site power generators are loud, heavy machines that run on gasoline and require regular maintenance. They also emit deadly carbon monoxide gas, and so have to be kept outside.
However, advances in battery technology over the past few years have made battery storage a viable alternative. The Geneverse HomePower One (available at Amazon) is a battery backup power station designed to give you reliable, relatively long-lasting power to get you through an emergency.
And, when you pair the battery system with Geneverse’s SolarPower One panels, you get a power bundle that can keep your home running until the lights come back on.
What is the Geneverse HomePower One and SolarPower One system
I was able to use the Geneverse HomePower One and SolarPower One system for several weeks at my house. Fortunately, we never had an emergency situation, but I did put it to the test.
I used it to power my refrigerator for a day, ran my Instant Pot and rice cooker (it can’t power a stove), and even brought it down into my workshop to see how it did with power tools.
Overall, I was impressed. While it won’t power your entire house, it will keep your food cold, give you enough power to cook basic meals, and let you use most medical devices that you need.
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When it’s time to charge, the solar panels do a surprisingly good job, provided that it’s not an overcast day. If it is an overcast day, in a pinch you can charge it through your vehicle’s auxiliary power outlet.
And yes, you can keep using the power while the unit is charging.
In addition to emergency home use, I can also see a use for this product as a job site power source. It was easily able to power my router, sander, drill, and circular saw, though it wasn’t quite up to the task of powering my table saw and miter saw.
All in all, if you’re looking for a non-gasoline emergency backup system, the HomePower One and the accompanying SolarPower One are an excellent choice.
About the Geneverse HomePower One
This multifaceted generator is not only portable, but also adaptable enough to be used indoors or outdoors.
- 1,002 watt-hour (Wh) capacity
- Up to seven days of power, depending on usage
- Multiple power outputs: 2 USB-C outputs with PD 18W, 1 USB-A with 5V/2.4A, 1 USB-A with Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, and 1 car outlet with 12V/10A.
- Stores power up to one year
- 5-year warranty
- Easy-to-read display
- Simple setup and use
About the Geneverse SolarPower One
A more sustainable way to power your home–without the danger of a gasoline generator.
- 100W power output per panel
- 50% higher energy conversion than traditional solar cells
- Also supports USB-C and USB-A charging
- Fast setup
- 5-year warranty
What we like
Clean and quiet operation for indoor use
In the event of a storm or a citywide power outage, the Geneverse Solar Generator can provide long-lasting use for your appliances with its 1,002 Wh battery.
Traditional gasoline-powered generators are noisy and stinky, and, for both safety and sanity, need to stay outside. The HomePower One, however, is just a large battery. It’s perfectly safe to use in the same room as you are. Need the toaster? Bring it into the kitchen. Need a light in the basement? Bring it down with you.
It’s lightweight and mobile. You don’t have to run extension cords through open Windows in winter or worry about tripping over them in the living room. Store it inside and use it inside, without any concern.
Multiple power outputs
Geneverse recognizes that our power needs vary throughout the day, and the HomePower One has outputs to fit just about every use case. The 3 AC outlets power normal appliances and lights, while the collection of USB and micro USB outputs allow charging of devices so we can stay in touch, up to date, and informed in an emergency.
And, with so many different outputs, the HomePower One can power multiple devices at a time, provided that they don’t exceed the capacity.
Super easy setup
I was skeptical when the instructions said that the solar powered system could be set up in 30 seconds or less. But it really can.
Simply bring the panels out to the sun, unfold them, plug them into the HomePower One, and they start generating power immediately. If I were to buy these for myself, I would build some sort of stand to keep them up out of the snow, mud, and dirt. For testing purposes, they worked just fine on the hood of my car.
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What we don’t like
Honestly, not much. The drawbacks of the system are mostly innate to the type of power, and not a problem with the unit itself.
The solar panels don’t work great on cloudy days
For optimal charging, stick to bright, sunny days.
I tested the HomePower One in February and March in New England. On sunny days, the panels do pretty well, producing between 100W and 120W, which would fully charge the unit in nine or 10 hours.
However, on cloudy winter days, that output plummeted to around 15W, which wouldn’t charge the unit full before night fell. While a little bit of power is certainly better than no power, you will be at the mercy of the weather for power after you’ve drained the initial charge.
Limited capacity
Geneverse claims that the unit can provide power for up to seven days. And, I’m sure that’s true, if all you’re charging is your phone.
However, most people without power won’t get anywhere near seven days before needing to recharge. And, to be fair to Geneverse, the company does have a list of estimates for how long the unit will power different appliances.
As near as I can tell, these estimates are pretty close. I was able to power my refrigerator for about 11 hours before the battery died. Cooking one meal with my Instant Pot took about 10% of the battery power. A few hours of woodworking took another 30% or so.
I also tried to use more than one kitchen appliance at once (both my Instant Pot and rice cooker) and the Geneverse couldn’t handle both simultaneously.
Shuts off without warning
This is the only true gripe that I have with the design of the system. When it is overloaded, it shuts off. Which is great—no one wants the battery to overheat and start a fire. However, there’s no warning when this happens.
When I overloaded the battery by trying to run multiple appliances, I didn’t know it had shut off 10 or so minutes later when I went to check on dinner. So, you do want to check on it, particularly if it’s charging something frequently out of mind like a refrigerator.
Warranty
Geneverse offers a 5-year limited warranty on the HomePower One and SolarPower One products, on top of a 30-day return policy. If the product is found to be defective within the five-year window, Geneverse will exchange the unit for a replacement.
Should you buy the Geneverse HomePower One and SolarPower One?
While their are a bit steep, we have no doubt that the Geneverse HomePower One and SolarPower One are a handy duo to have on hand.
Yes.
There’s no question that a gasoline-powered generator with the same power capacity would be less expensive than the Geneverse HomePower One. But, it’s also more hassle and more work.
If you’re looking to get away from a gas-powered solution, or if you simply live in a place where a gas generator isn’t feasible like an apartment, then the Geneverse is a fantastic solution for you.
Even if you just buy it for emergencies, there’s no question that you will be able to find far more uses for it. I can see these units being great for camping, for example.
It’s a quality product that does exactly what the company claims it will. Keeping it on hand, fully charged, will be great peace of mind for you and your family
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were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
OUPES 1200W Portable Power Station, Solar Generator 992Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup Solar Powered Generators Quick Charge Pure Sine Wave 110V AC Outlet Powerbank for Home Use Camping Outdoors Travel
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Top positive review
This is really a nice unit. My only complaint is it only can be charged up to 200 watts. It has a beautiful high end display. I can carry it easily.
From the United States
This is really a nice unit. My only complaint is it only can be charged up to 200 watts. It has a beautiful high end display. I can carry it easily.
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Works great. We bought it for our small refrigerator in our camper. We left it for 24 hours and returned worried that the refrigerator would be off. The Power station had only dropped to 50%. Refrigerator was nice and cold. The first one we had had a manufacturing defect, but it still worked. We contacted the company and they promptly sent us another one as a replacement. The company was responsive and easy to work with. The power supply to charge it is not noisy at all, as we have heard of other brands. I am a woman with limited lifting ability and I can easily lift it and move it from place to place, so it isn’t really heavy. All in all, we are pleased with it so far, and we would purchase it again.
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Tried it on my chest freezer which it easily runs for 24hrs. Also have used it to run a large aeration pump in my pond. Works well. Simple operation. The only thing I wish is that it would recharge at a higher rate.
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I use this unit while boondocking in winter in the desert and it is a fantastic solar power station. It keeps all my electronics charged as well as runs fans, lights, TV, dvd, coffee maker, etc. Charges from 100W solar panels in less than a day.I had a problem after using the unit for 10 months. Notified customer service. Answered a couple questions. Then was sent a return label with free shipping back to them (I had kept the original box and sent it back with all the accessories that were originally included with my purchase). Got a new unit in about 15 days. How great is that?! How about a company that honors their warranty with no hassle. This is a great little solar generator and a company with superior customer service.
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I like everything about them. I own two 1200 watts and three 1800 watts. One of my 1200 watts is having issues today and they have already gotten back to me and are going to send a return label so I can get another. UPS will come with a label and pickup the unit so I don’t have to drive 11/2 hours one way to find a drop off. I love this seller
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The biggest issue I have is that the power button won’t work unless it’s plugged in. I seriously do not have the time or energy to send it back. I needed it to go in my camper for family to stay. Please Oupes. Fix this issue on future generators. If the problem persists, I WILL be sending it back for a refund. This product recently quit turning on without being plugged in at all. It has to be plugged to solar constantly to be used.
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First, I really like the Oupes power stations. I bought two, an 1800 watt and a 1200 watt. The 1800 watt has been great since the day I received it. The 1200 would only partially charge.
Oupes customer service is very responsive, and really seem to want to resolve the problem. They sent me a return shipping label to send back the 1200. It took about two weeks for them to receive the returned unit, and for me to receive a replacement.
Unfortunately the replacement unit had the same problem…it would only partially charge. I agreed to try some troubleshooting steps they provided, but it only made the charging problem worse.
Two units in a row had the same problem with charging. I didn’t want another one, and requested a full refund.
They did ask me a few times to accept another replacement 1200. By this time, I had to admit I was no longer interested, and again asked for a full refund.
They sent another return shipping label. It then took two weeks for them to receive it and process a refund.
ProsCustomer Service was very responsive.I did get a full refund.The Oupes 1800 seems to work great.
ConsThe 1200 watt units received were faulty. Twice.Repackaging and taking it for return shipping was awkward and heavy and inconvenient. Twice.
I’m now shopping for another brand to replace the Oupes 1200.
Solar Generators: A Guide to Portable Solar Power
A solar generator is a portable power station that uses portable solar panels to charge a battery, and the stored electricity can be used to charge or operate other devices.
As climate change continues to impact our planet in the form of extreme weather, higher temperatures, rising sea levels, and more, we must look for sustainable solutions to more parts of our day-to-day life. This includes the move to using portable solar power generators to create and store renewable energy for all your backup power needs.
Not only do solar generators create reliable clean electricity from the sun, but they also reduce the emission of harmful greenhouse gasses associated with traditional portable generators. As a result, manufacturers are working hard to make solar backup generators better and more reliable than their fuel-powered counterparts. This mirrors the growth and popularity of home solar power systems as an alternative to powering your home with fossil fuels.
With this article, you will better understand what a solar generator is, why solar generators are worth an investment, how to shop for a portable solar generator that’s right for you, and why solar-powered generators should replace traditional gas-powered generators.
What Is A Solar Generator?
The term solar generator usually refers to the combination of portable solar panels, battery, battery charger, and inverter into a single device that allows you to capture, store, and distribute power from the sun.
Solar generators are popular for camping trips, boating, RV trips, and as emergency backup power.
Unlike a traditional generator, which is normally powered by gas, diesel, or propane and includes an engine, fuel tank, and alternator, a solar generator lacks any moving parts. They’re essentially comprised of four elements:
- Portable Solar Panels. Captures energy from the sun
- Rechargeable Battery. Stores the energy captured by solar panels
- Solar Charge Controller. Manages how much energy goes into the battery
- Solar Inverter. Converts the sun’s energy into usable electricity
Thus, a solar generator is basically a portable battery with some photovoltaic (PV) panels attached to collect sunlight.
A portable solar generator turns out to be a great power supply, whether you’re on the road, camping, or needing electricity during a power outage. Depending upon your situation, you might want a solar generator with a variety of outlets, especially in emergencies where you have multiple power-dependent devices and appliances.
Typically, solar generators have 12-volt sockets, AC outlets, and USB ports to allow you to charge different devices. The beauty of having several charging options with your portable generator is that you can get the power you need on your terms. For example, you can plug a smartphone directly into the USB port to charge, and then connect an extension cord to the AC outlet to power a set of string lights.
In most cases, you will have the option to buy components like solar battery storage and panels separately, though you can also buy them as a complete all-in-one kit. We recommend purchasing the accessories you need to generate and store enough electricity for your intended use.
How Do Solar Power Generators Work?
A solar battery generator works by creating electricity from sunlight and storing it in a battery for future use. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the process:
- Solar panels convert sunlight to DC electricity and pass it through the charge controller.
- The charge controller regulates the voltage of electricity before storage, ensuring the right amount of current goes to the battery.
- The battery stores all the solar energy for later use.
- The inverter converts the stored energy from the battery to the AC power that most appliances and devices use.
Who Benefits From Using Solar Generators?
Solar generators don’t burn fuel to generate electricity, making them ideal for anyone looking to reduce reliance on gas-powered generators, combat blackouts and other power outages, and have a reliable backup power source option in case of emergencies.
You can use the energy stored in a solar generator during a power outage, to charge your devices when camping, and as source of energy on an RV or boating trip. Essentially, a solar-powered backup generator is ideal for a range of real-life situations, meaning it’s useful to have around for more than just emergencies.
People Who Want to Make Eco-Friendly Choices
Traditional generators run on fossil fuels that pollute the environment. If you’re conscious of the danger these fuels possess, then a solar backup generator is ideal for you.
People Bothered by the Sounds and Smells of Traditional Generators
Traditional generators are noisy and stinky because they’re combustion engines running on fossil fuels. Over time and even with proper maintenance, they can become noisier and smellier. If you’re looking for a generator that creates zero sounds and smells, a solar power generator will not let you down.
People Who Enjoy Spending Time Outdoors
You will find solar power generators are helpful if you enjoy being outside, yet still want to bring along a few modern perks. For example, during a camping or boating trip, solar batteries come in handy to ensure you have continuous power access. You could string up lights after sundown, charge your phones, run small kitchen appliances, and any number of conveniences you had to do without in the past.
Key Factors When Shopping for a Solar Generator
Solar generators come in different sizes and shapes, so picking one that will address your personal needs should be your priority. Choosing a solar generator can be challenging, especially when you are presented with different options, so we created this shopping list as a good starting point.
Since not all portable solar backup power generators are the same, people need to know what the generator can and cannot do. Knowing how you intend to use your generator should help guide you to the right solution.
Some of the top brands to compare include Jackery, Goal Zero Yeti, Bluetti, EcoFlow, Point Zero Energy, Renogy, and Tacklife. Each company makes its products unique, so a closer look at what each one offers can help you make a sound decision.
Your Energy Requirements
The amount of electricity you need should be your top consideration for determining the size of your solar powered generator. For example, if you plan to use it outdoors, you should calculate how much energy your devices and appliances use when comparing the storage capacity of potential solar generators.
How Much Electricity The Solar Generator Can Provide
The longer a generator can provide power, the better. (This is usually calculated in watt hours.) Considering you don’t always know when you will have an opportunity to recharge it, it is best to have one that can run efficiently for a long time. That way, it will be easier for you to go about your daily activities or complete what you were doing, knowing you have enough backup power.
How Long The Solar Generator Takes To Charge
In addition to comparing the battery capacity of a solar generator, you should also pay attention to how long it takes for the battery to achieve a full charge. Some even have the ability to quick charge from a home AC power outlet. This will help with planning how much time you’ll need to be without power in the event a recharge is necessary.
What Features and Benefits are Included
You can do a lot with a solar generator that has helpful features. For example, more USB ports and power outlets give you the freedom to charge multiple devices at once.
Weight is another essential consideration, especially if you plan to use your generator for outdoor activities. Batteries can be heavy, so you might want to look for a solar generator that has focused on keeping the weight down if you plan to move it around a lot.
What the Warranty Covers
We recommend examining any benefits you might enjoy from the product warranty. The larger and more reputable the company, the more perks you will likely receive to support your solar power generator. The top options include replacement parts for any necessary repairs, as well as a longer length of time your solar generator is covered by the warranty.
Comparing Portable Solar Generators with Traditional Gas-Powered Generators
The Pros of Solar Generators
Investing in a portable solar generator is a good way of reducing your environmental impact and enjoying numerous other benefits:
Portable
Generally lighter than traditional gas-powered generators, solar generators are ideal for outdoor events, camping, emergencies, and general on-the-go activities. Some of them are even equipped with a luggage-like pull handle to enhance portability.
Low Maintenance
Wear and tear due to moving parts in traditional emergency generators can lead to high maintenance costs. Solar generators have no moving parts and don’t rely on gas to generate electricity. This design helps lower the possibility of having to pay for repairs.
Clean Energy
Solar generators generate clean, renewable energy that doesn’t hurt the environment when running. Traditional generators run on fossil fuels which contribute to air pollution and climate change. As an added benefit, you can access solar energy freely instead of paying for pricey fossil fuels.
Easy Operation
Solar generators are easy to use as they don’t require fueling, oiling, starting, and maintaining. Just turn it on, connect your devices, and draw power from it.
The Cons of Solar Generators
There are a few disadvantages to using solar generators that you should consider before making a purchase:
Higher Upfront Cost
Solar generators typically require a higher initial investment than traditional generators. However, the costs of operating are lower than traditional options, so you’ll save money over time.
Lower Energy Storage
Solar generators aren’t ideal if your power demands are too high. For instance, during a power outage, your generator may not be sufficient to operate all devices and appliances in your house. In most cases, they are best for operating a few devices at a time, such as lighting, a television, or a refrigerator.
Slower Energy Generation
Compared to traditional gas-powered portable generators, solar generators are not the best option when you need instantaneous power. If your battery runs out of power, you have to wait for it to recharge to get power to your appliances and devices, which can vary depending on the weather conditions. With a traditional generator, you simply need to add more fuel to generate additional power.
The Pros of Traditional Generators
Generators powered by fossil fuels do have some advantages, including:
Portability
Traditional options are available in different sizes, and there are smaller sizes that you can bring with you when traveling. Just remember that you also have to carry gasoline, so they aren’t quite as portable as solar generators.
Familiar Technology
Having been on the market for years, traditional generators are more familiar to some people. However, that market dominance also means the technology hasn’t been dramatically improved because of the lack of competition.
Electricity On-Demand
Traditional generators produce electricity as soon as they receive fuel, while a solar generator must be recharged to provide electricity. Hence, gas-powered generators are more convenient when you need instant power.
The Cons of Traditional Generators
Despite their popularity over the years, traditional generators have their shortcomings. Here are some of the reasons why people are ditching them:
Fuel Costs
Traditional generators rely on costly fossil fuels to run, which increases their long-term costs over the initial purchase price. You may also have to pay more to access that fuel if you aren’t near a gas station or other fuel source.
Toxic Gases
Traditional generators are notorious polluters. Each gallon of gasoline contains about 20.35lbs of carbon dioxide, and the average camping generator emits around 1-2 lbs of carbon dioxide per hour, even when running at 1/4 of the max rated load.
In addition to carbon dioxide, gas-powered generators can also release other harmful gases into the atmosphere, including carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, and sulfur oxides.
Noisy Operation
Because of all the moving parts that make up a traditional gas-powered generator, they produce a lot of noise when operating. This is especially true for smaller portable generators, which are designed to prioritize size and weight over noise prevention.
Ongoing Maintenance
You have to continuously pay to take care of your traditional generator if you want to keep it in good working order. That regular maintenance occurs because the generator uses moving parts to process fossil fuels into electricity, and those moving parts need to be cleaned, oiled, and replaced over time. In addition, the fuel can go bad if it sits unused for a long period of time. Those routine costs definitely impact the total price of owning a gas-powered generator in the long run.
Key Takeaways
Solar generators are growing in popularity, and with advances in solar technologies, people who like clean energy are increasingly picking them over gas-powered generators. Solar generators offer low maintenance, portability, clean energy, and sustainable living to combat climate change. The numerous benefits of owning a solar generator make it worth the investment.
Before you buy a solar-powered generator, make sure you analyze the key features of different brands to pick one that will address your power needs. Brands like Jackery, Goal Zero Yeti, and Bluetti make a wide range of different solar generators to match your needs.
If you want to store even more backup solar power than even the best solar generator can provide, you should consider solar battery storage that connects to your home solar panel system. While your home solar panels can definitely charge your portable solar generator so you have on-the-go power whenever you need it, solar generators are not designed to act as a home standby generator for your entire home.
If you’re shopping for backup power options, the experts at Palmetto can help you understand the long-term solutions that are right for your electricity needs and system requirements. Get started today with a Free Solar Savings Estimate, and then speak with one of our solar professionals on how you can always have the energy you need when you need it most.