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.
Solar Power Planet Earth
Although our utility grids are very reliable now-a-days, having backup power associated with your solar power system can still be desireable for peace of mind. Heavy wind and rain, earthquakes, and floods, are only a few among the many things that can still cause the grid to fail for extended periods of time. In a normal grid-tied solar system, if the grid goes down for any reason, so does your solar system. Both battery backup and generator backup have added costs associated with them; however, if you don’t mind the extra maintenance and don’t want the additional expense associated with having to replace batteries every 5 to 10 years, a generator may be more appealing. Here is the basic configuration of a grid-tied solar system with generator backup:
(A) Photovoltaic Array
The solar contractor will size your array in the same manner as a grid-tied solar system, since the generator has no relevance unless the utility power goes out.
(B) Inverter
Under normal circumstances, the inverter will function in the same manner as a standard grid-tied inverter. In the event of a grid power failure, the inverter will disconnect your solar back-feed (a.k.a. anti-islanding) and immediately switch on the generator. The generator will then provide power to your critical circuit subpanel (D) until its fuel source is exhausted.
(C) Backup Generator
The backup generator can use a number of different types of fuel such as natural gas, gasoline, diesel, or propane. Each of these different types of fuel have advantages and disadvantages associated with them. The most common type of generator for small scale residential systems is natural gas. This allows the generator to be plumbed into the readily available supply of natural gas coming from the utility company. This type of generator requires the least maintenance, since you don’t have to worry about fuel going bad if not used, or having to refuel it at all for that matter. Only periodic running of the generator is needed, which is the same for all the other generator types as well. Here is a table which breaks down the differences between the different fuel sources, in addition to comparison to a solar system which uses battery backup.
As you can see from the table above, the one big disadvantage to using a generator as backup with a solar power system is that you can not take advantage of the energy generated by your solar panels. This is only possible with a solar system with battery backup.
(D) Critical Circuit Sub Panel
This panel will contain all the circuit breakers which lead to your critical circuit loads. These loads will always have power, regardless of grid status. It is important to note, that power will only be drawn from your generator in the event of a grid failure.
(E) Critical Circuits
This set of critical loads can be anything the user wants, such as a refrigerator, lighting, security systems, etc.
A grid-tied solar power system with a backup source is not as common due to the significant increase in total cost, which ultimately reduces your financial return. However, it will give you peace of mind knowing you will never be without power.
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.
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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.
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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.