ESS Solar Powered Generator for Home House Camping 1500W-3000W 24V
Rated Power: 1500W/2000W/3000W, Input: DC24V, Ouput: AC110V/120V/220V/230V/240V, 2AC Output Socket, 4DC12V, 4DC5V USB | Solar Powered Generator Combines Inverter, MPPT Solar Charge Controller, Can Built-in 2200AH Battery
- Type : Off Grid Solar Powered Generator
- Place of Origin : Foshan, Guangdong, China
- Brand : XINDUN POWER
- MOQ : 1 pcs
- OEM : Yes
Solar Generator
Solar Panel
Others
■ Solar Powered Generator Feature
3 times peak power, excellent loading capability. 2. Solar powered generator combines inverter/solar controller/battery all in one. 3. Multiple output: 2AC output socket, 4DC 12V, 4USB. 4. Working mode AC prior/ECO mode/Solar prior selectable. 5. AC charging current 0-30A selectable. 6. LVD/HVD/Charging voltage adjutable, suitable for kinds of battery 7. Adding fault code to monitor real-time work situations. 8. Continuous stable pure sine wave output with inbuilt AVR stabilizer. 9. Digital LCD and LED for visualization of operation status of the equipment. 0. Solar power generator inbuilt automatic AC charger and AC mains switcher, stwitch time ≤ 4ms.
■ Solar Powered Generator Specification
ESS series solar powered generator power range is from 300w to 7000w, for more specification, pls refer to this page (CLICK).
■ Solar Powered Generator Details
■ Solar Powered Generator Wiring Diagram
Contact XINDUN for more high-definition wiring diagram or 24V/1500W/2000W solar powered generator wiring diagram.
■ Solar Powered Generator Application
■ Solar Powered Generator Package and Delivery
■ Why Choose Us？
■ About Xindun Power
■ Solar Powered Generator Factory
■ Qualifications and Certificates
■ Global Solar Exhibitions
■ FAQ
Q1: Are you a factory?
A: Yes, we are the top 10 power supply manufacturers in China, with over 7000 square meters production area. We FOCUS on inverters, solar charge controllers, solar generators and solar power system solution. We cooperate with some famous brands all over the world, can provide customized production or add your logo on products.
Q2: How much does solar powered generator cost? A: Tell me your requirements, such as power, voltage, battery capacity, charging current, quantity, and whether there are other functional requirements. We will give you the most favorable ex factory price. Home house solar powered generator factory direct sales, no middlemen earn price difference.
Q3: What\’s the difference between solar inverter and solar generator? A: Both solar inverter and solar generator are widely used in PV solar energy into electric energy, and design to convert DC (Direct Current) into AC (Alternating Current). Solar generator combines solar inverter/solar charge controller/battery all in one kit. Generally solar generator has multiple output: AC output socket and DC 12V, USB 5V. Compared with solar inverter, solar generator is more convenient to use.
Q4: How to solve the solar powered generator technical problem? A: We will provide market and product training services, 24 hours after-service consultancy just for you and to make your problem to solveeasily.
Humless 1500 solar generator
4 Great reasons to buy from us:
Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System
Be prepared to harness the renewable energy all around you with the Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System.
The Nature’s Generator Gold-WE system combines the Nature’s Generator Gold System and the Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine. This introductory package is perfect for individuals who have never harvested their own renewable solar energy before.
The included Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine provides users with an additional method of recharging their Nature’s Generator with wind power. So no matter the weather or season you can be sure that the Nature’s Generator Power Panel and Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine will provide you with clean, renewable energy.
Backed by a 12 month limited warranty, you can rest assured your Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System will provide you with renewable energy long after your purchase.
Don’t let another windy day pass you by, order the Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System today!
Features Charging Info
Nature’s Generator Gold System Highlights
- By keeping the included Power Panel connected to the Nature’s Generator you’ll continually create and use your own power.
- Power items like smartphones and laptops to small appliances like lights and fridges using the multiple AC and USB outlets.
- Included sturdy polycrystalline Nature’s Generator Power Panel is reinforced with 3.2mm of safety and anti-reflective glass.
- The Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine helps provide an additional method of recharging the Nature’s Generator so that you can stay charged and connected in almost any weather scenario.
How to recharge your Nature’s Generator Gold System
- Using included AC Cord. Estimated recharge time: 10. 15 hrs.
- Using the Nature’s Generator Power Panel. Estimated recharge time: 10. 15 hrs.
- Using the Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine (sold separately and charge times can vary).
What can the Nature’s Generator Gold System power?All run times are estimated. By using your system with the included Power Panel, run times are extended further.
Run times with Nature’s Generator
- Smartphones. 60 Recharges
- Tablets. 30 Recharges
- Laptops. 12 Recharges
- LED Light Bulbs. 50 Recharges
- Point of View Camera. 100 Recharges
- Mini Fridge. 12-18 Hours
- Refrigerator. 8-12 Hours
- 32 LED TV. 12 Hours
- Oscillating Fan. 12 Hours
- CPAP Machine. 8 Hours
- Circular Saw. 4 Hours of Normal Use
- Corded Drill. 8 Hours of Normal Use
Specifications
- Three 120V household AC outlets
- Two USB ports. 3A of combined power
- One 12V DC port (240W max)
- Expansion Port: 200A Fuse
- Charging AC Input (90W)
- Solar Input (200W Max)
- Wind Input (300W Max)
Battery Details
- Type: AGM Sealed Lead Acid
- Capacity: 60Ah (720Wh)
- Keep plugged in or recharge every 4 months of non-use
- Built-in charge controller
- Built-in low battery protection
General Specifications:
- Product dimensions with cart: 23 × 17 × 22 in.
- Product dimensions without cart: 18 x 12 x 15 in.
- Product dimensions. Power Panel: 40 x 6 x 30 in.
- Product dimensions. Wind Turbine Rotar Diameter: 51 in.
- Weight out of box: Generator. 90 lbs
- Weight out of box: Power Panel. 28 lbs
- Weight out of box: Wind Turbine. 22 lbs
- Operating temperature: 32-104 °F (0-40 °C)
- Storage Temperature: 23–111 °F (-5–45 °C)
- Output Power: 1800W max
- Output Wave Form: Pure Sine Wave
- Output Voltage: 120V
- Output Frequency: 60Hz
- Front LCD Display shows battery level, output information and more
- LCD button turns on the LCD display
- Warranty: 12 Months
Nature’s Generator Solar Power Panel
Features Data:
- 100 Watt panel
- Cell Type: Polycrystalline
- Junction Box with MC4 Connector cable
- Daisy-Chain to another solar panel using MC4 branch connector
- Frame cart with wheels
- Summer and Winter Tilt positions
- Reinforced with 3.2mm safety, anti-reflective glass
Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine
Features Data
- Weatherproof M19 3P connectors
- 100ft, 12AWG UL Wind Turbine Cable
- Wind Input: Anderson connectors
- Rated mechanical power: 400 watts @ 27 mph
- Rated electrical power: 150 watts
- Maximum wind speed 110 mph
What’s In The Box
Nature’s Generator Power Panel with:
Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine with:
- Hub
- 5 blades
- Hardware and tool bag
- 100ft wind turbine cable
- Controller Box
SHIPPING
We are glad to offer Free Shipping for products shipped within the continental US.
We currently do not offer shipping to Hawaii or Alaska through our website. If you are interested in placing an order to ship to either of these locations, feel free to reach out to us directly so that we can work to provide you custom shipping arrangements.
For any small parcel shipments going Ground, you can usually expect delivery of your product within 5-7 business days for orders being shipped to any of the contiguous states.
This product can not be shipped to a P.O. box.
Warranty Returns
Nature’s Generator products come with a 1 year limited warranty.
Returns: Any unopened/unused and non-defective product purchased can be returned to us within 30 days of the original ship date without incurring a restocking fee. You must contact us via email at support@ecostoredirect.com
When you contact us we will provide you with an RMA number and confirm the return address to you. You can then arrange to send back the product. The return cost associated with any unopened/unused and non-defective product is the purchasers responsibility.
If you would like to return any unopened/unused and non-defective product after 30 days of product purchase, that item can be returned back to us and you will incur a 15% restocking fee. In addition, the return cost associated with the unopened/unused and non-defective product is the purchasers responsibility.
Damages: If for any reason your product is damaged upon receipt, please contact us via email at support@ecostoredirect.com so that we can work with you on getting a replacement.
Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System
Be prepared to harness the renewable energy all around you with the Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System.
The Nature’s Generator Gold-WE system combines the Nature’s Generator Gold System and the Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine. This introductory package is perfect for individuals who have never harvested their own renewable solar energy before.
The included Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine provides users with an additional method of recharging their Nature’s Generator with wind power. So no matter the weather or season you can be sure that the Nature’s Generator Power Panel and Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine will provide you with clean, renewable energy.
Backed by a 12 month limited warranty, you can rest assured your Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System will provide you with renewable energy long after your purchase.
Don’t let another windy day pass you by, order the Nature’s Generator Gold-WE System today!
Features Charging Info
Nature’s Generator Gold System Highlights
- By keeping the included Power Panel connected to the Nature’s Generator you’ll continually create and use your own power.
- Power items like smartphones and laptops to small appliances like lights and fridges using the multiple AC and USB outlets.
- Included sturdy polycrystalline Nature’s Generator Power Panel is reinforced with 3.2mm of safety and anti-reflective glass.
- The Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine helps provide an additional method of recharging the Nature’s Generator so that you can stay charged and connected in almost any weather scenario.
How to recharge your Nature’s Generator Gold System
- Using included AC Cord. Estimated recharge time: 10. 15 hrs.
- Using the Nature’s Generator Power Panel. Estimated recharge time: 10. 15 hrs.
- Using the Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine (sold separately and charge times can vary).
What can the Nature’s Generator Gold System power?All run times are estimated. By using your system with the included Power Panel, run times are extended further.
Run times with Nature’s Generator
- Smartphones. 60 Recharges
- Tablets. 30 Recharges
- Laptops. 12 Recharges
- LED Light Bulbs. 50 Recharges
- Point of View Camera. 100 Recharges
- Mini Fridge. 12-18 Hours
- Refrigerator. 8-12 Hours
- 32 LED TV. 12 Hours
- Oscillating Fan. 12 Hours
- CPAP Machine. 8 Hours
- Circular Saw. 4 Hours of Normal Use
- Corded Drill. 8 Hours of Normal Use
Specifications
- Three 120V household AC outlets
- Two USB ports. 3A of combined power
- One 12V DC port (240W max)
- Expansion Port: 200A Fuse
- Charging AC Input (90W)
- Solar Input (200W Max)
- Wind Input (300W Max)
Battery Details
- Type: AGM Sealed Lead Acid
- Capacity: 60Ah (720Wh)
- Keep plugged in or recharge every 4 months of non-use
- Built-in charge controller
- Built-in low battery protection
General Specifications:
- Product dimensions with cart: 23 × 17 × 22 in.
- Product dimensions without cart: 18 x 12 x 15 in.
- Product dimensions. Power Panel: 40 x 6 x 30 in.
- Product dimensions. Wind Turbine Rotar Diameter: 51 in.
- Weight out of box: Generator. 90 lbs
- Weight out of box: Power Panel. 28 lbs
- Weight out of box: Wind Turbine. 22 lbs
- Operating temperature: 32-104 °F (0-40 °C)
- Storage Temperature: 23–111 °F (-5–45 °C)
- Output Power: 1800W max
- Output Wave Form: Pure Sine Wave
- Output Voltage: 120V
- Output Frequency: 60Hz
- Front LCD Display shows battery level, output information and more
- LCD button turns on the LCD display
- Warranty: 12 Months
Nature’s Generator Solar Power Panel
Features Data:
- 100 Watt panel
- Cell Type: Polycrystalline
- Junction Box with MC4 Connector cable
- Daisy-Chain to another solar panel using MC4 branch connector
- Frame cart with wheels
- Summer and Winter Tilt positions
- Reinforced with 3.2mm safety, anti-reflective glass
Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine
Features Data
- Weatherproof M19 3P connectors
- 100ft, 12AWG UL Wind Turbine Cable
- Wind Input: Anderson connectors
- Rated mechanical power: 400 watts @ 27 mph
- Rated electrical power: 150 watts
- Maximum wind speed 110 mph
What’s In The Box
Nature’s Generator Power Panel with:
Nature’s Generator Wind Turbine with:
- Hub
- 5 blades
- Hardware and tool bag
- 100ft wind turbine cable
- Controller Box
SHIPPING
We are glad to offer Free Shipping for products shipped within the continental US.
We currently do not offer shipping to Hawaii or Alaska through our website. If you are interested in placing an order to ship to either of these locations, feel free to reach out to us directly so that we can work to provide you custom shipping arrangements.
For any small parcel shipments going Ground, you can usually expect delivery of your product within 5-7 business days for orders being shipped to any of the contiguous states.
This product can not be shipped to a P.O. box.
Warranty Returns
Nature’s Generator products come with a 1 year limited warranty.
Returns: Any unopened/unused and non-defective product purchased can be returned to us within 30 days of the original ship date without incurring a restocking fee. You must contact us via email at support@ecostoredirect.com
When you contact us we will provide you with an RMA number and confirm the return address to you. You can then arrange to send back the product. The return cost associated with any unopened/unused and non-defective product is the purchasers responsibility.
If you would like to return any unopened/unused and non-defective product after 30 days of product purchase, that item can be returned back to us and you will incur a 15% restocking fee. In addition, the return cost associated with the unopened/unused and non-defective product is the purchasers responsibility.
Damages: If for any reason your product is damaged upon receipt, please contact us via email at support@ecostoredirect.com so that we can work with you on getting a replacement.
I haven’t had the time or situation to really give it ago, but love the size and seems very straight forward to use. Definitely thinking about getting the new generator that holds twice as many watts
The 10 Best Solar Generators (2023 Review)
A solar generator gives you backup energy from the sun if you’re out camping or if you’re experiencing a power outage. We’ve reviewed the top solar generators here.
Share this story
Share All sharing options for: The 10 Best Solar Generators (2023 Review)
Affiliate Disclosure:This Old House’s Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services. To support this business model, This Old House may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website.
Solar generators convert sunlight into energy to power your devices and appliances when you don’t have electricity. If you’re looking for a portable power source to take with you on a trip, read our review below to see our top picks for the best solar generators. You can also read our buying guide to generators to aid you in making a Smart purchase.
Compare Top Solar Generators
| Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240 | 240 | 5 pounds | 2 years | 9 x 5 x 8 inches |
| Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500 | 518 | 13 pounds | 2 years | 12 x 8 x 9 inches |
| ROCKPALS Portable Power Station | 300 | 8 pounds | 2 years | 11 x 5 x 9 inches |
| EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station | 1,260 | Not listed | 2 years | 16 x 8 x 11 inches |
| BLUETTI Portable Power Station | 2,000 | 61 pounds | 2 years | 17 x 11 x 15 inches |
| Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station | 505 | 13 pounds | 2 years | 14 x 12 x 9 inches |
| MAXOAK Portable Power Station | 2,400 | 49 pounds | 2 years | 19 x 7 x 14 inches |
| ITEHIL Portable Power Station | 500 | 19 pounds | 2 years | 11 x 9 x 8 inches |
| EF ECOFLOW RIVER Pro Portable Power Station | 720 | 17 pounds | 2 years | 11 x 7 x 9 inches |
| Rainier Outdoor Power Equipment Portable Power Station | 150 | 5 pounds | Not listed | 10 x 4 x 6 inches |
Top 10 Solar Generators
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240
taken at time of publishing.
This solar generator is lightweight at under five pounds and has a textured handle that makes it easy to carry from location to location. Another unique feature of this generator is that it can charge devices while it’s been recharged, and it can be recharged through a wall or car outlet.
Pros and Cons
Has the most affordable price point out of the models in this review
Can charge and recharge at the same time
Has a built-in textured handle for easy carrying
✘ Criticized by some customers for dying quickly
✘ Has the lowest power output in this review at 200 watts
What Customers Are Saying
Many customers praised this portable power station for producing minimal noise, having a long-lasting battery, and being easy to carry. Others said that they had positive customer service experiences. Unhappy customers noted that this model died quickly and lacked power.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500
taken at time of publishing.
This solar generator has an output of 518 watt-hours and has eight output ports and outlets, allowing it to charge a handful of devices. Additionally, it can be carried with you on a camping or hiking trip due to its small size, and it features an oversized carrying handle.
Pros and Cons
Has the most affordable price point out of the models in this review
Can charge and recharge at the same time
Has a built-in textured handle for easy carrying
✘ Criticized by some customers for dying quickly
✘ Has a low power output of 200 watts
What Customers Are Saying
Customers praised this generator for its ease of use and portability. However, negative reviews complained about the fan not working properly and the manufacturer providing poor customer service.
ROCKPALS Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
The carrying handle on this solar generator is rubberized and textured, making it easy and comfortable to hold onto. With its 300 watts of power and 280 Wh, this generator can handle small home appliances and electronic devices, such as lamps, hair dryers, and laptops.
Pros and Cons
Can be recharged using a cigarette lighter, three-prong wall outlet, USB port, or solar panel
Has one fast-charging USB port
Has enough power to provide about 40 charges to small home appliances
✘ Not sold with the DC converter
✘ Criticized for feeling cheaply made
What Customers Are Saying
Many customers were happy with this portable power station because of its great value for the money, portability, and long battery life. Some said that it met all of the manufacturer’s claims and was easy to use. Negative reviews noted that this model felt cheaply made, not offering much power and struggling to charge devices.
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
Two of this solar generator’s six USB ports are fast-charging to ensure your necessary devices and appliances, such as lanterns and phones, stay charged at all times. The generator provides up to 1,260 watt hours for refrigerators,
Pros and Cons
Features patented X-Stream Technology to help it recharge faster
Features two fast-charging USB ports and four standard ports for multiple charging options
Can provide power to a laptop for over 25 hours
✘ Doesn’t have all of the ports and outlets on one side for easy access
✘ Noted by some that the wattage didn’t match the advertised output
What Customers Are Saying
Amazon customers praised this power station for having a lot of power, minimal noise, and responsive technical support. They also loved how lightweight and portable it was. However, dissatisfied customers said that it didn’t provide as much power as advertised and that it broke after minimal use.
BLUETTI Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
This solar generator can run several powerful devices at once with 2,000 watt-hours. It has an intelligent temperature-activated fan that keeps the unit cool and quiet. Plus, all of its outlets and ports feature covers to keep them protected when they’re not in use.
Pros and Cons
Has a touchscreen to control its settings
Includes a car charging cable
Has small carrying handles on either side of its body
✘ Costs the most out of the options in this review
✘ Weighs 60 pounds, making it more difficult to transport than other models
What Customers Are Saying
Customers praised this power station for being an excellent value for the money. Many loved its easy-to-use touchscreen and long battery life. Some unhappy reviewers experienced temperature errors despite the model’s fan.
Goal Zero Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
This generator is a great choice for campers due to its easy operation and 505 watt-hours of operation. It also includes four different port options, including AC, 12V, and 60W USB-C PD, ensuring you can operate several different devices outdoors without worry. Courtesy Amazon
Pros and Cons
Can charge in a 180-watt wall outlet in three hours, a 60-watt outlet in 10 hours, or a 120-watt outlet in 4.5 hours
Is made from rugged, durable material that’s perfect for on-the-go operation
Can recharge a phone up to 42 times and a laptop up to 10 times
✘ Has a long auto shutoff timer
✘ AC outlet is sometimes slow to operate
What Customers Are Saying
Customers who were happy with their purchase of this solar generator commented on how simple it was to operate, as well as its long-lasting battery and its lightweight design. However, others felt this generator had issues powering on large devices, and some had issues with the LCD screen.
MAXOAK Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
This portable power station has an impressive eight ports that include two AC outlets, one car outlet, four USB-A ports and one USB-C port, giving you the flexibility to charge a variety of devices under 1,000 watts. It is also available in numerous color options to match your style.
Pros and Cons
Can be charged up to 80 percent within 10 hours
Features an intelligent cooling fan to prevent overheating
Can charge a laptop up to 32 times
✘ Wall charger has a slower operation than some other models
✘ Is heavier than many other solar generators
What Customers Are Saying
This generator earned positive reviews on Amazon for its high-charging capacity, and several others were also impressed with its durable design and many charging ports. On the other hand, it was docked by some for its LCD display. A handful of reviews noted that it was hard to read and didn’t display the remaining battery percentage. Others were also disappointed in its 1000-watt inverter, which was lower than other solar generators of similar sizes.
ITEHIL Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
This heavy-duty solar generator is made with aviation-grade aluminum alloy, giving it extra protection and impact resistance. It also comes with a convenient carrying handle that makes it easy to transport and a bright LED light to help you use it in the dark.
Pros and Cons
Features multiple input and output ports that can reach over 700 watts
Can be charged via wall outlet, car outlet, or solar panel
Includes an LED display and SOS rescue and warning features
✘ Does not include USB-C charging
✘ Does not feature Wi-Fi compatibility
What Customers Are Saying
Customers who left positive reviews for this product were impressed with its charging imports, as well as its LCD screen and its overall design. However, some customers found it was lacking in the overall power level, while others found that it needed to be frequently recharged to work correctly.
EF ECOFLOW RIVER Pro Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
With 720 Wh and 600 watts of power, this solar generator is a good medium-sized option that won’t break the bank. It can charge up to 80 percent in just one hour, and can power some devices of up to 1800w. Additionally, it features three AC outlets and weighs less than 17 pounds.
Pros and Cons
Features 10 total output ports
Includes a built-in flashlight
✘ Can be difficult to carry and transport
✘ AC sockets can occasionally be obstructed
What Customers Are Saying
This solar generator earned positive reviews from customers for its low noise level and lightweight, compact design. Several other customers also were impressed with its fast charging ability, noting it completely charged in just over one hour.
Rainier Outdoor Portable Power Station
taken at time of publishing.
This small generator, which features 150Wh, is perfect for charging small electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, drones, lights or speakers. It weighs only five pounds, comes with a built-in flashlight and measures only six inches tall, making it easy to fit anywhere.
Pros and Cons
Features three USB Ports, three 12V 5.5mm DC outputs
Includes a battery level display for easy tracking
Has a lower price point than most other portable power stations
✘ Not ideal for charging large appliances
✘ Charging times can be inconsistent
What Customers Are Saying
Customers loved how maneuverable and portable this portable power station was, noting it was a great choice for camping or fishing. Several also complimented its durable, long-lasting design. On the other hand, some customers felt this product was overly loud, while some said they had difficulty getting it started.
Buyer’s Guide
Portable generators that utilize solar charging are a reliable source of renewable energy. Read our buying guide below to learn about battery life, portability, and other factors that will help you decide on the best solar power generator.
Type
Solar generators are available as both portable generators and backup generators. Most solar generators are portable, lightweight, and have a built-in handle. The best portable solar generators are used to provide power for construction sites, campers, events, or other settings where access to electricity is limited.
Backup solar generators provide backup power for when an electrical grid fails, providing an efficient alternative for installing a complete system. Backup solar generators provide enough power to turn on appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, televisions, and more in the event of a blackout.
In the video below, Ask This Old House master electrician Scott Caron shows how to use a solar generator:
Battery
When examining the battery of a solar generator, you should consider its overall battery capacity (measured in watt-hours) and its charging method.
Life
The lifespan of your generator’s battery depends on the size of the battery and the amount of power required to run your devices. For example, a battery with a watt-hours rating of 150 can run a 100-watt appliance, various power tools, or several small appliances that equal 100 watts for 1.5 hours.
Charging
The amount of time it takes to recharge the battery depends on the size of the battery and the method of charging, as well as the charger’s power. Larger batteries take longer to recharge than smaller batteries. Additionally, while solar generators are meant to connect to solar panels for charging, that’s not always convenient if it’s overcast or if you’re pressed for time. That’s why they typically also offer an electric charging function. A quick charge function may also be available on certain models.
Outlets/Ports
Solar generators come with various outlets and ports to run several devices simultaneously. Common plugs include AC outlets, USB and USB-C ports, and car cigarette lighters.
Price
The price of a solar generator depends mainly on the type you’re purchasing and the power output. For portable generators, some lower-end models that will only power small items can cost 200 or under, while higher-end models can cost well over 500 or upwards of 1,000.
Backup generators also vary in price depending on the model, but smaller generators can cost around 1,000, while generators with higher wattage can cost several thousand or more.
Size
To determine what sized solar generator you need, consider how much power you need for your devices. For example, if using a portable generator on a camping trip, do you need to power a portable fridge, television, or coffee maker? Or do you only need power for small items like a mobile phone or a mini fan? The wattage required to run each item may vary, and most portable solar generators can power in the range of 100-500 watts. Smaller units typically have a lower power capacity and can only charge small devices.
Backup solar generators can typically power at least 1,000 watts, which should be enough to power appliances like small lights, a fridge, or a television. However, if you need whole-home power or need to turn on devices like a washing machine or air-conditioning unit, you will likely need a generator with a power level of at least 2,000-3,000 watts.
Brand
To ensure you’re getting a high-quality solar generator, look for trusted brands that make well-reviewed products. Some of the brands that are well known for making solar generators include Jackery, ROCKPALS, Renogy, BLUETTI, EF Ecoflow, Goal Zero, Kohler, Titan Solar and Flashfish.
What Are The Benefits of a Solar Generator?
When shopping for a new generator, there are several unique advantages to buying a solar generator instead of a gas-powered model, such as:
Noise Level
Standard generators can get noisy, which could be a significant factor if you’re using them while camping, RVing, or even running them outside your home. However, one of the benefits of solar generators is that they run completely quiet since they don’t have any of the parts of gas-powered generators.
Maintenance
Solar generators also require little-to-no maintenance to operate. Solar generators are less likely to break than fuel-powered generators and have fewer parts to maintain. The standard maintenance needed for a solar generator is dusting, removing moisture, and checking the connection.
Fuel and Clean Energy
One of the main benefits of solar generators is that they use clean, renewable energy, which is better for the environment. It can also be better for your wallet, as solar generators avoid having to stock up on fuel to run your generator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting a solar generator?
A solar generator may be worth it depending on how you use it. The cost of the generator easily pays for itself if you live somewhere that receives ample sunlight and you utilize the energy from the generator as a home backup. Alternatively, if you frequently go on road trips, a solar generator is also worth it.
Will my solar generator come with a solar panel?
It depends on the model. Some generators come with the solar panels needed to operate them, and some don’t. If you don’t have a compatible solar panel already, it might be worth it to find an all-inclusive kit, as this cuts down on the cost and the number of purchases.
Are there other types of generators?
Yes. Some generators use electricity or gas for power, and all power generators are able to support off-grid living. However, some people prefer solar generators for the following reasons:
- They’re more eco-friendly because they use energy from the sun as opposed to fossil fuels.
- They’re cheaper to operate because you don’t have to buy fuel refills for gas generators.
- They’re better in emergency situations where you might not have access to fuel.
- They’re quieter.
- They’re more portable because they’re smaller and lighter.
What’s the purpose of the inverter in my solar generator?
The power stored in a solar generator’s battery is in direct current (DC), but most devices and appliances use alternating current (AC). This inverter converts DC to AC. If your solar generator doesn’t have a built-in inverter, you will need to purchase one separately.
Why Trust The This Old House Reviews Team
This Old House has empowered homeowners for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement content in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content on its website and social media platforms. The This Old House Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content to help inform your purchasing decision for just about any item or resource that you might need for your home. The This Old House Reviews Team has written over 1,000 reviews on products in the home space, from cordless drills to kitchen trash cans, lawn mowers, and dining room decorations.
We recommend products in each review using an intensive research process, spending hours combing through the best available models on Amazon. For a product to make our list of top picks, it must hold a solid sales record on Amazon, have consistently positive customer reviews, and offer unique features, among other factors. After narrowing down our list of recommendations, we conduct additional research and sometimes in-person testing to ensure that the products meet our standards. Once we conclude the research phase, we craft a well-rounded, user-friendly article that includes our recommended products and additional information to help homeowners like you make the right purchase.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
The 8 Best Solar Generators for Van Life [Large Small]
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read our disclosure policy for more info.
Let’s face it: we’ve all become so dependent on our phones, tablets, and laptops, that we can’t imagine life without them.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time van dweller, it’s important to be able to charge your devices on the go. Not only that, if your camper van conversion includes a 12-volt portable fridge, LED lights, and water pump, you’ll need a reliable source of power to keep things running smoothly.
If you’re worried about the prospect of installing a complicated electrical and solar system in your van, consider a portable solar generator, instead. These portable power stations are easy to use, can be charged in multiple ways, and come in a variety of sizes.
Depending on your budget and how much power you’ll need, there’s a portable solar generator out there that’ll be perfect for your van life adventures!
Best Large Solar Generators
If you’re heading out on the road with an extravagant Sprinter conversion, you might want to consider a larger solar generator. We’ve found the best large solar generators that’ll keep the lights on, the fridge humming, and your blender blending!
The Inergy Flex 1500 is one of the most portable and lightweight solar generators in its class, making it an ideal choice for van lifers who need plenty of power on the go.
Featuring a 1,500-watt pure sine wave inverter with 3,000-watt surge capacity, this best solar generator for van life can power pretty much everything you’ll need for your camper van.
The Inergy Flex 1500 provides 20A @ 13.8V of regulated DC power, so you can use the battery’s full capacity for running 12V devices like a portable refrigerator and a water pump. Best of all, you can add up to 96 flex batteries, making this solar generator super-powerful.
The Inergy Flex 1500 can be charged with solar panels, a wall socket, or your van’s cigarette lighter socket. You can even combine all three methods for really efficient charging!
- Modular – you can add flex batteries for even more power
- Lightweight for the wattage
- High capacity – you can power fans, fridges, microwaves, etc.
- 24-month warranty
Power: 1,800 watts
Weight: 35.2 pounds
We’ve had really positive experiences using the Jackery Explorer 500. Still, if you need a portable solar generator with more power and a higher capacity for your van life adventures, the Jackery Explorer 1500 might be what you’re looking for!
With its generous 1,800 wattage and 1534 Wh capacity, this best solar generator for van life should meet the needs of most van dwellers. You can charge up to seven appliances simultaneously with the Explore 1500, and all charging ports are conveniently located on the front panel. There’s also a cool digital interface that makes it easy to keep track of the battery.
One of the best features of this portable solar generator for a campervan is just how quickly it can be charged. It only takes four hours to charge the Explorer 1500 either from a household wall outlet, or using solar. That said, to achieve maximum efficiency when charging via solar, Jackery recommends using 4x SolarSaga 100W panels under direct sun.
- Multiple ports, including 3 100V AC outlets
- Charges really quickly
- 2-year warranty
- Awesome LCD display
Power: 1,000 watts
Weight: 48.5 pounds
Although not the lightest nor the most compact portable solar generator in its class, the Bluetti EB240 Portable Power Station is one of the most popular choices among van dwellers.
This is the manufacturer’s largest power station, featuring 1,000 watts of continuous power, with a 1,200-watt surge capacity. The Bluetti EB240 has been designed with an intelligent cooling controller, so there’s no danger of the unit overheating when you need it most.
If you plan on spending time boondocking off-grid, this best solar generator for camping should be plenty powerful for your electrical needs. You can charge a laptop computer 34 times, a smartphone 255 times, and run a 700-watt microwave for almost 3 hours!
The Bluetti EB240 can be charged from a standard wall outlet, and you can also use a maximum of 500 watts of solar. The main downside to this portable solar generator for van life is the time out takes to charge – 9 hours using solar panels under perfect conditions, and 12 hours using a wall socket.
- 2-year warranty
- High capacity and can charge a range of devices
- Intelligent cooling controller
Power: 1,200 watts
Weight: 31.68 pounds
There’s a reason why Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Stations consistently rank among the best solar generators for van life. These power stations are available in a variety of different sizes and all deliver high quality, rugged construction, and efficient design.
The Yeti 1000 Core is simply ideal for those who want plenty of power during off-grid excursions. This solar powered generator for van life is compact, lightweight, and really packs a punch.
The Yeti 1000 Core allows you to charge a smartphone 82 times, a laptop computer 20 times, and run a van fridge for 18 hours. You can be sure to extend that run time with a low-draw 12V portable cooler.
This portable solar generator’s intelligent design means all charging ports are on the front of the unit, including a pair of AC outlets, a 12V socket, and several USB ports. The Yeti 1000 Core can be charged from a wall outlet in as little as 5 hours, and charges in around 4 hours using a 300W solar panel.
- All outlets are on the front of the unit
- Large, bright LCD display
- 1-year warranty
- Replacement lithium batteries available
Power: 1,800 watts
Weight: 31 pounds
Price: 1,100-1,300
Featuring an elegant design, with sturdy, high-grade aluminum casing, the EcoFlow Delta 1300 portable Power Station is a rugged choice for van lifers. Plus, it has a fantastic LED display that makes it really easy to keep track of your battery.
This best portable solar generator for camping and van life comes equipped with an amazing 13 output ports! There are 6 pure sine wave AC outlets, a 12V socket, and multiple USB ports. The downside is that the outlets are scattered around three sides of the unit, making it hard to access them if the power station is stored in a corner.
The EcoFlow Delta has an impressive 1,800 watts of AC power and 3,300 watts of surge capacity, making it ideal for use with appliances that need a big wattage boost to start. Incredibly, when plugged into a wall socket, the unit can charge to 80 percent capacity in an hour!
The biggest drawback with this portable power station is the battery’s 58 percent “round-trip efficiency.” The battery only outputs a little over half of the power that was stored, so the EcoFlow Delta might not be ideal for extended off-grid use.
- Good price for the power
- Fantastic for AC charging
- Charges really quickly from a household wall outlet
- Not too heavy
Best Small Solar Generators for Van Life and Camping
For those with more modest needs, there are plenty of smaller solar generators for van life available. We’ve found the best small power stations that still pack a powerful enough punch to keep everything charged and ready. Digital nomads rejoice!
Power: 500 watts
Weight: 12.9 pounds
Dimensions: 14.4L x 12.3W x 9.1H
This smaller Yeti Goal Zero 500 is a popular choice among van dwellers who want quality and efficiency, but don’t need loads of excess power. Costing around half as much as the Yeti 1000 Core, this unit is a fairly affordable option, too.
Featuring a 300-watt continuous, 600-watt surge pure sine wave inverter, the Yeti 500 can charge up to 7-10 devices simultaneously. There’s plenty of power here to charge your phone and laptop several times, as well as run a portable fridge for hours. Plus, the Yeti 500 has the classic Goal Zero front panel which makes it easy to keep track of how the battery is performing.
The Yeti 500 is available with either a lead-acid or lithium battery. The main benefit of the Lead-acid battery is the ability to daisy-chain multiple batteries for a longer run time.
This best small solar generator for van life charges in 5 hours from a wall outlet, 13 hours from a car’s DC socket, and in as little as 8 hours if you’re using Goal Zero’s monocrystalline solar panels. You can use other manufacturers’ panels, but you’ll need to buy an adaptor.
- Faster charge time than bigger units
- Awesome LCD display on the front
- lightweight and portable
Power: 300 watts
Weight: 6.39 pounds
Price: 250-300
Those who are looking for a simple and affordable solution for powering their devices might just find that the Renogy Phoenix 300 is the best solar generator for van life. This compact little power station might not look like much, but it really can deliver a punch. Best of all, it weighs less than 7 pounds, so you can carry it just about anywhere you want to go.
The lithium-ion battery at the core of the Phoenix 300 has more than 1,000 life cycles, which means it’ll be helping you out for quite some time. This solar generator features a total continuous output of 300 watts, and allocates sufficient power to each output, according to the port’s specifications.
Ports include a pair of 110V AC outlets and multiple fast-charging USB ports. The Renogy Phoenix 300 will charge a phone 21 times, a laptop computer 5 times, and it’ll keep a 12V cooler running for several hours.
You can charge the Phoenix 300 from a wall outlet, your van’s cigarette lighter socket, or with solar panels. Although the Phoenix only accepts up to a 50W maximum load, Renogy claims solar panels will charge the unit in as little as 8 hours.
- Super lightweight and portable
- Very affordable
- Has a built-in emergency light
Power: 500 watts
Weight: 11.66 pounds
The ALLPOWERS solar generator for van life is another compact and lightweight option. With a battery capacity of 666-watt hours and a 500-watt power rating, this portable solar generator is ideal for off-grid living.
You can power up to 9 devices at the same time on the ALLPOWERS Portable Power Station, with outlets including 2 DC sockets and 2 AC outlets. The generator also has 1,000-watt peak capacity, so you don’t have to worry about using appliances that need a power boost to get started.
We love this solar generator’s easy-to-read LCD display, and you can use an app for remote control of the unit from your phone, via Bluetooth. When you’re living off-grid, charging the battery couldn’t be easier. The unit can handle up to 100W/hour of solar input, which is regulated by the internal MPPT. You can also recharge the battery to 100 percent in just 3 hours by plugging into a household wall socket and Type-C USB simultaneously.
- Compact and lightweight – you can take it anywhere
- Good price for the battery power
- Can be fully charged really quickly
- Customer reviews often mention the operating instructions are terrible
- Outlets aren’t all on one side
What Is a Portable Solar Generator for Van Life?
At this point, we should clear up the terminology a little. Using the name solar generator can be quite misleading – these units don’t actually generate anything, unlike a traditional fuel-powered generator.
A traditional generator produces power by burning fuel, whereas a portable solar generator stores electricity that’s been generated either by charging the unit with a wall outlet or DC socket, or by using solar panels.
So, a solar generator is really more of a battery than anything else, which is why a better name might be “portable power station.” Terminology aside, portable solar generators for van life are clean, sustainable, and easy to use.
Van lifers who’d rather not embark on designing and installing a complex electrical system in their camper vans can have everything they need in one convenient box:
- A battery. This stores energy you’ve collected so you can power devices and appliances when you’re off-grid.
- A battery charger. This allows you to charge the battery from a mains supply or solar panels.
- A battery monitor. This allows you to keep tabs on your battery’s health and efficiency.
- A charge controller. In most cases a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller is used to regulate the energy produced by solar panels, so the battery charges safely.
- Cabling/wires. Everything is already connected.
- An inverter. This will almost always be a pure sine wave inverter that allows you to power appliances that use AC power.
You should be aware that, in most cases, portable power stations don’t come with solar panels included. You’ll need to buy solar panels separately and each manufacturer will have recommendations on the best panels to use with their unit.