We can start talking about solar generators with defining what is a solar generator? A solar generator is more or less a rechargeable battery that is powered by a solar panel and can be recharged without using electricity to recharge the battery.
According to Bioenergy consultants, the basic setup of a solar generator includes a rechargeable battery, inverter, solar panel, and solar charger. Energy is drawn from the solar panel and passes through the charger to the battery. The DC electricity in the rechargeable battery is then converted to AC electricity for use.
You can utilize these powerful small generator to power important medical equipment essential to supporting your health during power outages or camping. Accompanying each solar generator is the compatible solar panels used to charge the solar energy generator; most Solar panels are sold separately.
Taking the time to look at the benefits of a solar generator may be a good idea if you like to camp or have a loved one at home who may need the power of a solar generator if a disaster occurs (e.g., tornado, or hurricane) that might compromise important electric power critical to saving someone's life.
What are some Benefits of Solar Generators ?
Because the sun's energy is almost unlimited and virtually free of charge, solar panels allow you to access a boundless energy supply solar generators can be an excellent choice because of several reasons. Solar generators do not use fuel and operate on clean, renewable energy.
According to bioenergy consultants, there are tax breaks and cash incentives for solar-operated equipment. Other advantages are solar generators have no fumes and aren't very noisy and once you get the solar power gear, the rest of the equation is free. You have an unlimited source of energy once you are in a place with an optimal amount of sunlight.
What are some disadvantages of Solar Generators ?
Solar generators have disadvantages, just like most products we use daily. For example, a solar generator cannot withstand prolonged exposure to hot temperatures; the power stations must be at a cooler temperature while you keep the solar panels exposed to maximum sunlight, so they have temperature sensitivity issues almost like a computer. So when you purchase a solar generator as your backup power source, seek one with a BMS or Battery Management System, which controls the temperature of the power station..
Other disadvantages include inconsistent sun energy can affect how effective the solar panel operates to generate the clean sunlight power that will power the solar generator.
In reality you may have difficulty effectively working a solar panel if not in a tropical or subtropical climate. For example, an area that has minimized sunlight may not be a good place to try and utilize the solar generator. A place where there are bad storms like southeastern areas and sunlight is pretty consistent would probably be a good choice for a solar generator.
When talking about how to find a good solar generator our discussion about solar generators will start with the Goal Zero Yeti 6000x, a portable power station for homes with seven versatile ports for power-hungry devices and appliances. With the 6000x, you have power that is easy to control and monitor in/out power usage by optimizing power usage through consumption notifications and charging profiles in real time that provide battery life longevity. Take a moment to review the key features of this generator.
Solar Generator & Panel Option#1 $4,999.95 @ Amazon
Key Features:
Equipped with 6,071 Watt-Hours and seven versatile ports for power-hungry devices and appliances, the Yeti 6000X can power essential home circuits, RVs, trailers, worksites, and more.
Increased 2000W AC (3500W Surge) inverter allows you to brew coffee, use your portable fridge, and power phones and tablets to stay connected. Our new industry-leading inverter handles surges from power tools, medical devices, and even full-size refrigerators.
Easy to use for powering a wide range of devices with seven different port options, including fast-charging 60W USB-C Power Delivery, multiple USB-A ports, regulated 12V, and two 120V AC ports.
Charging options occur in three ways: plugging into a 600-watt outlet and charging it for 12 hours. Users of the Goal Zero 6000 x can use their 12-volt car adapter \ to recharge the Yeti; you can add a Goal Zero solar panel (sold separately) for separate charging.
One important fact when purchasing a solar generator is finding the best compatible solar panels that will power the solar generator for long periods of use.
Of course the solar generator has long lasting power generation, but the solar panels helps a solar generator maintain power for long periods by just using clean energy from the sun. A compatible solar panel for the Goal Zero Yeti 6000 x generator is the Goal Zero Boulder 50 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel. and you may see how this will work with your Goal Zero generator. Take a moment to review the key features of this solar panel.
Goal Zero Boulder 50 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel $149.95 @ Amazon
Key Features:
Goal Zero has paved a new way forward in portable energy use at home, traveling, and off the grid. Our products are engineered with precision here in the U.S. . Portable solar gives you the power to run devices and appliances from the sun wherever you go.
Humans are driven by a vision for success defined by our impact on people and the planet. Goal Zero solar panels contain every feature with a purpose, designed with real-life use case scenarios.
Professional grade solar panel field-tested in various environments, from expeditions in the Arctic to job sites to the backyard. Pair the Boulder 50 solar panel with a Goal Zero power station for a solar charging solution that you can use for camping, work sites, off-grid events, and backup power at home when the grid goes down.
Boulder 50 is a standalone panel on vans, vehicles, sheds, and more.
Durable and dependable | Portable 50-watt monocrystalline solar panel built to last and survive. Boulder 50 is designed with an anodized aluminum frame with added corner protection and tempered glass covering, making it weatherproof and lightweight. A built-in kickstand lets you position the panel for optimal solar collection and stores away to transport from place to place.
Solar Generator & $1699.00 @ Amazon
The Jackery Explorer 1500 solar generator is the next highlighted solar generator we wanted to bring to your attention. Jackery Explorer generators are adaptable using port outlets that could be used to satisfy your needs when the lights go out. Take a moment to review the key features of this generator.
Key Features:
SPEED UP YOUR RECHARGEABILITY: It takes only 2 hours to recharge 80% battery of the power station through the wall outlet and 60W PD USB-C port simultaneously. You can also recharge your power station with an AC adaptor when at home, through the car outlet during a road trip or simply use a Jackery Solar Saga 100.
SAFE & STEADY POWER SUPPLY: Armed with a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack, the Explorer 300 features 2 Pure Sine Wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W power. The portable power station weighs only 7.1 pounds. You can simply rest assured in outdoor off-grid activities.
POWER YOUR EXPECTATIONS: Featuring 2* AC outlet, 1* PD 60W USB-C port (input/output supported) , 1* fast charge 3.0 port, 1*USB-A port and 1* DC car port, the power station can recharge itself and charge (up to) 6 devices (e.g., .Drones, MacBook, Cameras, etc.) at the same time to satisfy your outdoor needs.
GREEN POWER SUPPLY: The power station is compatible with the Jackery Solar Saga 100 solar panel. The integrated MPPT controller enables the solar generator set to operate at its max power point, so that it speeds up the battery recharge, making them ideal portable power kits for tent camping, overland journey and etc.
The Jackery Solar Saga 100W Portable Solar Panel for Explorer provides a compatible solar panel that can power the Jackery 1500. This panel is compatible with lower powered Jackery solar generators but is just right for the Jackery 1500. Take a moment to review the key features of this solar panel for the Jackery 1500..
240/300/500/1000/1500 Power Station, Foldable US Solar Cell Solar Charger with USB Outputs for Phones (Can't Charge Explorer 440/ PowerPro)
$299.00
Key Features:
EASY SETUP & KICKSTAND INCLUDED: The Solar Saga 100 features 2 kickstands that can be placed firmly on any surface ground. With just a few seconds of setup, you can start soaking energy from the sun for your Jackery power station. The TPE rubber handle allows you to carry around easily when taking off-grid adventures.
HIGHER ENERGY CONVERSION RATE: Covered by monocrystalline silicon solar cells, the solar panel adopts multi-layered cell technology to generate energy from the sunlight and perform better with higher conversion efficiency that up to 23% than other conventional panels.
DURABLE & SPLASH-PROOF: The ETFE-laminated case is durable enough to extend the lifespan of the solar panel. It is IP65 water-resistant that will protect from water splashing (Do not place it under the rain, or to soak in water). The zippers on the pocket can hold the power cords, and cover the power port.
COMPATIBLE & VERSATILE: This solar panel is compatible with Jackery Explorer 300/500/1000/1500 power station (sold separately), ideal for off-grid camping and unexpected power outage. Solar Saga 100 features 1* USB-C(5V,3A) output port and 1* USB-A(5V, 2.4A) output port to charge 2 small devices directly.
The MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh is superb and durable providing you with a great solar generator that can perform when off the power grid. Take a moment to review the key features of MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh.
MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh Solar Generator
$1,499.00 @ Amazon
Key Features:
[Sweet Spot] - With a fabulous capacity of 2400Wh and an efficient 1000W AC inverter, EB240 power station can load relatively high-power devices, which has reached its sweet spot for an off-grid living.
[8 Versatile Ports] - EB240 is equipped with 2 AC outlets, 1 car outlet, 4 USB-A, 1 USB-C for most devices under 1000W such as electric drills, mini-fridge, car vacuum cleaners, phones, laptops, etc.
[Multi-Recharging] - EB240 can be recharged from 0-80% within 10 hours (in the sunshine duration) not only by a 200W AC adapter or a generator but by Max. 500W solar panels (not included).
[2500+ Life Cycles] - The Auto-level 3C High Rate Li-ion Battery Cell and premium Battery Management System ensures 2500+ life cycles to 80%-nearly 3.5 times the lifespan of the average batteries.
[What You Get] - BLUETTI EB240 Portable Power Station, AC Adapter & Charging Cable, Solar Charging Cable, User Manual, 24-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The Bluetti SP120 120 W solar panel are the compatible panels needed to power up the MAXOAK Portable Power Station 2400Wh. Take a moment to review the key features of the BLUETTI SP120 solar panels that are be used with the MAXOAK. solar generator.
BLUETTI SP120 120W Solar Panel
Key Features:
[HIGHER CONVERSION EFFICIENCY & PORTABLE] - BLUETTI SP120 is a 120-Watt monocrystalline solar panel with a high-efficiency solar cell of up to 23.5%, which ensure the BLUETTI SP120 performs better than similarly-rated polycrystalline solar panels in low-light conditions ,with a folded size of 16.3 x 16.1 inches and 9.48 lbs of weight, the BLUETTI SP120 is convenient to carry around for outdoor camping adventure
[EASY SETUP & KICKSTAND INCLUDED] - The SP120 features 4 kickstands that can be easy to get power from the sun & adjust the angle by the kickstands for better solar absorption. With the Pre-drilled holes on the panel also allow for fast mounting and hanging
[DURABLE & SPLASH-PROOF] - It’s made of advanced laminated technology and long-lasting ETFE material on the surface, making it more durable, better light transmittance, scratch-resistant and easy to clean by wet cloth. It is IP65 water-resistant that will protect from water splashing (Do not place it under the rain, or to soak in water).
[WIDELY COMPATIBLE] - BLUETTI SP120 120W foldable solar panel uses MC**4 connector & is designed to be used with most solar generators on the market, including any of the BLUETTI solar generators (AC200P/EB55/EB70/EB240/EB150/ AC50S),Tips: Single SP120 can not charge AC200P,we recommend you to connect at least 3pcs SP120 in series while charging AC200P
[WHAT'S INCLUDED] - 1*BLUETTI SP120 120W solar panel, 1*User Manual
You always save one of the best for last, the EF ECOFLOW DELTA is a powerful portable power station that is great for generating clean power when off the grid. If you have sola panels on your house you can even charge the EF ECOFLOW Delta off of your homes solar power source. This Solar Generator is great for Home Backup, RV, Travel, Outdoor Camping. Take a moment to review the key features of the EF ECOFLOW DELTA PRO.
EF ECOFLOW DELTA Pro Portable Home Battery(LiFePO4), 3.6KWh Expandable Portable Power Station, Huge 3600W AC Output.
$3,699.00
Key Features:
[Huge Expandable Ecosystem] - Home battery that can expand capacity from 3.6kWh-25kWh with extra batteries, ECOFLOW Smart Generators & the Smart Home Panel for backup power.
[Unparalleled 3600W Output] - A power generator for your appliances during a blackout. Power up 4500W devices with X-Boost. Enough for heaters or window AC units.
[5 Ways to Charge] - Pick from EV station charging, solar, wall outlets, using the Smart Outdoor Generator or via a car outlet. Combine methods to reach 6500W (with an extra battery). Faster than any other solar generator.
[EV Charging Portable Power Station] - Charge at over 35,000 level 2 EV stations across the U.S. Fast charge in under 1.7hrs.
[Long Lasting LFP Battery] - This battery power station sports an LFP battery. Get 6500+ full cycles to last for years. Ideal for outdoor camping & travel.
[What’s in the Box] - DELTA Pro solar power station, AC Charging Cable, Car Charging cable, DC5521 to DC5525 cable, Handle Cover, Manual, our worry-free 5-year warranty, and friendly customer service.
EF ECPF :PW400 W portable solar panels provide high performance input and efficient solar conversion capable of powering the EF ECOFLOW DELTA Pro. Take a moment to review the key features of the EF ECOFLOW 400W solar panels.
EF ECOFLOW 400W Portable Solar Panel, Foldable & Durable, Complete with an Adjustable Kickstand Case, Waterproof IP68 for Outdoor Adventures
$1,199.00
Key Features:
High Performance] With a 400W power input, this solar panel can provide your power station with a significant amount of energy with outstanding efficiency.
[Extremely Portable] The EcoFlow 400W Solar Panel is foldable and comes with an adjustable carry case. Weighing in at only 16kg (35.3lbs) it can be easily packed up and carried with you, no matter where you go.
[Weather Proof] This 400W solar panel is built to withstand the elements. It’s made from layers of flexible EVA and tough fibreglass to ensure durability and mobility. It also comes with a IP68 Waterproof rating, meaning it is dust and water tight.
[Market-Leading Technology] Designed with Monocrystalline cells, the EcoFlow 400W Solar Panel is able to generate more energy than standard solar panels. Its high transparency allows for a high energy conversion rate.
[Astonishing Efficiency] When paired with an EcoFlow power station, the 400W solar panel utilises the MPPT algorithm to achieve optimal efficiency rain or shine. Where solar panels are concerned, its conversion rate of 22.4% is astonishing.
The video How do Solar Generators Work? provides some insight on how Solar generators can benefit you during a power outage. Any of the solar generators above can provide a power source strong enough to restore some power to important sources that require power in your home. Hopefully, you will find the video informative.
Conclusion
A portable solar power generator has been around for a long time. Technological advancements in how the portable generator is engineered to stayed power when accompanied by solar panels compatible with the portable generator.
Solar generators can be useful when your off the power grid. For example, appliances will continue to run without interruption maintaining the functions of cooking your food or keeping your refrigerator running to keep the food you purchased for you and your family in tack.
You can also consider important medical equipment that will need power when the power grid is unavailable. For example, a family member that is being cared for has a c-pap machine that must be powered as a health support.
If you are considering some type of power source as back-up at home when the lights go out or to have power during an outdoor event.. Take a moment to see if one of the 4 portable solar generator options with compatible panels could work for you ?