12 Best Solar Powered Generators in 2021 [Top Reviews]

Having an emergency power backup solution is crucial in current times because most of our essential appliances are dependant on energy. To that end, the best solar generators in the market are extremely useful. Not only will these generators provide you with an alternate source of power, but will also reduce your carbon footprint! Naturally, the popularity of solar power in general and solar generator, in particular, has been increasing. According to the latest report from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), 3.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar PV capacity has been installed in the U.S this year to power 16.1 million American homes!

But the uses of solar generators are not just limited to an alternate power source anymore. Different people have started using solar generators for different purposes. Though we will be looking into the different uses of solar generators, the most common uses of the same include powering RVs, cars, and other solar-powered devices.

While there are many benefits of having one of the best solar generators at home, finding the ideal one that can be of use is difficult. The plethora of devices present in the market offering multiple benefits leave homeowners, clean energy users, and travellers confused.

To that end, something concrete us required, like a list of the best solar generators in the market, along with all the possible questions and queries about the product answered. We plan to do exactly that through this article. We hope, you find it useful.

Top 12 Best Solar Powered Generators Reviews

Owing to the craze for a clean source of energy, solar power has become very popular. More and more people are buying portable solar generators or even the full unit to power up their houses. In that light, multiple brands are bringing in solar generators in the market. 

Amidst so many brands choosing the ideal one can be a little tricky. Thus we have twelve products for you to consider.

1. Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Outdoor Solar Generator

The target of Goal Zero is to empower users with safe, bright, and sustainable power. The generator developed by Zero is portable and can be carried anytime anywhere. 

Be it for a night out, camping under the stars, or a road trip in the face of the unknown, with this portable power unit with you there is nothing to worry about. The unit can keep all your small and medium gadgets charged with its Yeti 500X portable power unit. The unit has been designed to store 20% more power even though it is 20% smaller. 

All in all, the unit is ideal for camping trips, backyard parties, and for emergency power outrages. 

Key features:

• The battery can be charged through an 8mm or UCB-C PD port. Ideal for GZ power panels
• Can power anything anywhere
• Includes ports 2 UCB -A, UCB-C PD, UCB-C 6mm, 2 120V Ac inverter, 12v
• Uses a Lithium power pack ideal for electrical appliances
• Comes with 2 years of warranty

Pros:

• Easy to carry
• Comes with a well informative display
• Lithium batteries can be discharged daily and do not damage the unit

Cons:

• Has a limited charging capacity
• Not compatible with other brands
• Takes a long time to charge

2. Jackery Outdoor Portable Solar Power Generator Station

The Jackery portable charger is compatible with solar power charging. The Explorer 500 performs very well as a solar generator which can be charged to its full potential under the full sun. It takes roughly around 9.5 hours to reach its full charge. All you need to do is connect the unit to the Solarsaga 100W solar panels. 

The unit comes with a high wattage capacity powered with 518Wh(24Ah) lithium battery. Additionally, the unit supports four-way charging that is:

1. With a solar panel
2. Wall outlet
3. Generator
4. Car outlet

Key features:

• Ideal for charging multiple gadgets outdoors
• Comes with a SINE WAVE AC outlet which provides stable power to all AC powered devices like TVs, projectors, blenders and much more
• The power unit can be charged anywhere. One can use its 100W solar panel to recharge it under the sun within 9.5 hours or with a carport which takes 16 hours. It can also be recharged from an AC wall outlet and that takes only 7.5 hours
• The natural source of power can be stored to run a myriad of appliances

Pros:

• Charges laptops and phones very fast
• The design is made ideal for travelling with nothing protruding from the exterior
• Easy to use functions

Cons:

• Controller cable has to be purchased separately to charge with solar panels
• Takes a long time to charge
• The charge goes down from 65w very quickly and does not recover quickly by walking the unit near the panels

3. MAXOAK Inverter BLUETTI EB240 Portable Solar Generator Inverter

The Maxoak power unit is long-lasting and a heavily loaded portable power unit that is ideal for household uses. It can also be used for RV/tailgating/camping/garden device. 

The solar charging capacity of the unit is much higher with its MPPT built right inside the unit. The unit can track the strength of the sunlight and adapt it’s charging mode based on that. One can connect the EB240 and the solar panel through the attached dc to the mc4 solar charging cable and does not require a controller. 

The unit uses a Lithium-ion battery cell since it has a longer lifetime and a higher discharge rate. 

Key features:

• High capacity 2400Wh unit 
• Can take continuous 1000W load
•  Powred with a Li-ion battery cell which produces low heat and has high efficiency
• Has multiple recharging options

Pros:

• The brand provides excellent customer service
• The power unit is feature loaded
• The unit performs very well and is very reliable

Cons:

• Is a little bit heavy
• Does not allow any temporary overload
• The charging panels are not compatible with all brands

4. EF ECOFLOW Portable Solar Battery Generator Power Station

The solar generator is a landmark in itself! The design, function and power presented by this unit are simply amazing. Additionally, it also recharges quickly. Say no to gas and fumes with this unit around you!

The EFDELTA power unit is a massive 1260Wh powerhouse which has amazing energy storing capacity. The battery is super powerful and is ideal to be a home generator. The unit can supply power for hours together and can charge up a wide variety of tool and devices. The unit comes with an output of 1800W and is compatible with all outputs. 

Key features:

• The unit comes with 6x 1800W AC OUTLETS & 1260Wh CAPACITY
• Superfast recharge from 0 to 80% in just an hour!
• Can be recharged both through solar energy and car power
• Can power 13 devices together

Pros:

• Comes with multiple safeties and does not make room for mistakes
• Powerful protection circuit does not let the unit to overheat
• Has the advertised capacity

Cons:

• Has a few software bugs
• Unit not ideal for 120 AC outlets
• Cannot charge an EV

5. Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Solar Generator Power Station

Though the Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station is small, it’s very well rugged-off grid generator that makes charging of all necessary items smooth and easy. 

Since it supports clean power, this power unit does not have any engine and thus is free from fumes, gas and noise. The unit has 100 running parts along with 150 peak watts. The unit is ideal for camping, festivals, tailgating and can function as the ideal home backup power. This unit is a premium development over the basic 5000 mAh power bank

Key features:

• Small but rugged-off unit ideal for both indoor and outdoor usage
• Comes with lithium-ion batteries that can be wall charged, car charged and solar panel charged easily
• The unit is highly versatile and efficient
• Ideal for outdoor activities

Pros:

• High wattage and compact size and weight
• Comes with a digital display that shows watts and fuel levels
• Accurate gas gauge

Cons:

• The engine speed is erratic
• The shutdown process of the generator is complicated
• It produces less noise but it’s not completely quiet

6. Rockpals 250-Watt Portable Solar Generator

The Rockpals 250 watt generator comes with lithium polymer batteries. The capacity of which is 3.7V 60000mAh/12V 18500 mAh. However, the unit is not ideal to replace AC for long term use. However, it is effective enough for travellers or as power backup. 

The unit keeps LED lamps and laptops running for a long time. In other words, RP250W has many applications. The maximum output of the unit is 300w which is more than most generators in the market. The inverter produces a pure sine wave. The unit comes with several inputs and outputs which also includes 2 AC wall outlets and four 12V 60 W DC ports

Key features:

• Compact and portable
• Ideal for small appliances and gadgets
• Produces pure sine power output
• Comes with multiple power output and inputs

Pros:

• Can charge multiple devices and still hold a charge
• Takes only 3 hours to recharge in the carport
• Lightweight ideal for travelling

Cons:

• Does not have a digital display
• Not ideal to be used for large appliances
• The battery does not hold a 40 per cent charge beyond 1 hour

7. Jackery Portable Solar Generator Power Station Explorer 1000

The Jackery Explorer 1000 solar generator is the most recent product launched by Jackery, an American company specialising in green power technology. Explorer 1000 has been preceded by Explorer 500, 240 and 160. However, the 1000 version provides the best battery storage and the highest output of the lot. 

The unit is feature-loaded which helps it stand out from the rest of the product on the market. Additional, it functions as the best energy source during an emergency. 

It’s an ideal choice for explorers, hikers, campers and anyone seeking out to enjoy some time out in the open. 

Key features:

• The unit comes with 1000W wattage and a 1002Wh capacity
• The generator has three standard AC outlets 
• Ideal for RVs, outdoor gathering, home backup power 
• Backed with MPPT technology that provides faster solar recharge

Pros:

• Lightweight (1000w category) yet powerful unit
• Ideal for powering small refrigerators
• Has quite a few USB-A, AC and USB-C ports

Cons:

• Charges a bit slow at 200w at the most
• There are manual buttons to switch on/off the unit
• The USB-C PD exhausts at 18W 

8. AIMTOM Portable Solar Generator Power Station

The AIMTOM Portable Solar Generator comes with a 42000mAh 155Wh battery unit along with a few different outputs which include AC, USB, and of course, 12V DC. The unit also has a recharging option in the wall outlet/solar panels/car. 

The product is extremely lightweight and easy to carry. It can charge multiple small electronic items at once and is thus ideal for camping and outdoor trips. 

The unit comes with a built-in Battery Management System that can help safeguard all the electrical appliances against any damage. Thus the solar generator is ideal to be used with laptops, cellphones drones, tablets and all other appliances. 

Key features:

• Comes with a big 4200mAh battery
• One unit for powering all devices
• Ideal power supply for any location
• Efficient and quiet power supply
• Advanced Battery Management System included

Pros:

• Holds charge for a long time
• Can charge directly through solar panels
• Handy device

Cons:

• Takes a long time to charge
• May not be compatible with some appliances
• Might not charge in the car at times

9. BALDR Portable Solar Generator Power Station 330W

The sine wave inverter by BALDR generates clean and stable energy which is not only fuel-efficient but also environment friendly. When the device temperature is set high the in-built mute fan turns on automatic. This keeps the device at a constant temperature range without the fan operating continuously. 

The noiseless technology and the gas-free design of the unit make it all the more eco-friendly.

The portable unit allows one to maintain power supply anytime anywhere. Since the unit is light it can be taken anywhere. Be it outings, camping, family trips. In other words, it’s an electricity supply unit wherever you need it! The unit does not use any gas or fuel and thus not produce any toxic smoke. In that light, it is best suited for keeping indoors. 

Plus the unit can be used in the car and tents. This generator is ideal for medium 

-sized device or multiple small devices. With this unit to help you out, discovering unexplored places with no electricity is ideal!

Key features:

• Comes with 270wh power which supplies continuous power to all appliances
• Can be charged through solar panels, wall power socket and 12V car socket
• Has multi-functional output port
• A safe and reliable source of energy

Pros:

• Well to do battery backup
• Comes with an inbuilt light
• Easy to use controls 

Cons:

• Solar panels cannot be connected while using the power outlets
• Does not charge phones as cordless chargers

10. RAVPower Portable Solar Generator Power Station

This one is an ideal power charging solution for multiple customers around the world. The unit is the leading fast wiring charging unit due to its amazing HyperAir technology. This portable charger comes with quite a few accessories which make this product reliable for outside use. 

The unit is compatible with QC fast charging which increases the charging speed of all QC devices. Overall, the unit is ideal for charging multiple small to medium-sized devices. 

Key features:

• Come with two 110 outlets that deliver stable and powerful 250w with one and 330w using both
• Ideal for camping trips and road trips
• Ideal backup generator for CPAP and Power outrage
• Comes with powerful 60W PD Input and Output
• Can be recharged anywhere. The unit takes 4-5 hours to recharge through PD port and 6 hours through the DC unit
• Ideal for emergencies. Comes with different lighting modes
• Easy to use and carry

Pros:

• Very small compact and powerful
• Comes with a portable carrying case
• Comes with an auxiliary flashlight which is very useful

Cons:

• Power supply made out of plastic
• The bag is double the size of the unit
• Not too long cords

11. FlashFish Portable Solar Generator Power Station

The high battery capacity of this unit allows one to recharge small appliances and electronic devices like phones, laptops, videos and cameras. The unit comes with three different output units which include 2 AC, 2 DC ports and 4 USBs. 

The unit comes with a 60Ah battery which contributes to the power of the battery. The battery pack can be recharged with a solar panel, a wall outlet and a carport. The state of the art battery management system that comes with the unit protects the generator and the attached devices against any damage. 

The unit features a strong metal design that is durable. In addition to all its features, the unit comes with an ergonomics handle that can be used to carry the unit outdoors.

Features:

• High power battery capacity
• Lightweight unit
• Comes with multiple useful features
• Recharges directly through solar panels

Pros:

• Comes with high battery power
• Advanced Battery Management System included
• Comes in a durable design

Cons:

• Produces low power unit
• Cannot be used and charged at the same time
• Charging with a 100w solar panel takes a whole day even if the sunlight is sufficient

12. Aeiusny Portable Solar Generator Power Station

This one is a multiple purpose generator that also functions as an online UPS, that is an uninterrupted power supply. This unit can be connected to an array of 21 lithium polymer batteries and thus function as the best portable battery pack. 

The UPS function and the expandability features are backed by its premium quality BMS. It also has several protective features which protect against overcharging, overloading, and short-circuit. 

The case of the unit is made out of durable and solid ABS plastic. Though it includes a solar panel, it is also compatible with 40-100 watts panel that can produce 13-18 volts of DC electricity. 

Finally, the model has two charging modes- solar charging and AC wall charging. Car charging is also an option if one can plug the generator to the car batteries. 

Key features:

• High capacity unit with 288wh/500w AC outlet, DC port and USB outputs
• Ideal for travel, outing, camping
• The unit has 3 AC outlets 4 DC ports 4 USB. The battery is powerful enough to charge smartphones 40 times over. 
• Can charge multiple small appliances and CPAP
• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Comes with three-way recharging option

Pros:

• The multipurpose unit serves both as an online UPS and also operates as an emergency power bank when connected to 21 lithium polymer batteries
• Comes with surge protection and also protects against overload, short circuit and overcharging
• Features high energy-to-weight ratio

Cons:

• The unit loses charge very fast
• The product instructions are not clear. The website does not have enough information
• The unit takes too long to charge

What Is A Solar Generator And Who This Is For?

As mentioned earlier, a solar generator is an alternative power source that uses the sun’s energy to produce voltage. A lot of solar devices can be listed under this category including a solar smart box, power station system solar farm panels, and much more. There are some solar power devices that include a graphical user interface and also increases durability.

The task of the solar generator is simple- it supplies power to other machines or power grids. However, a solar energy harvesting device can’t function on its own since power is not supplied to them continuously. In that case, a different battery must be used in addition to the solar energy harnessing device. But the question remains- do you need a solar generator?

You will indeed need one if you are planning to charge a small device, a boat, or an RV. The best part about solar generators is that they allow the freedom of movement. The portable versions of these devices are not cumbersome and are thus ideal for travellers requiring an extra source of energy. However, at the same time, solar generators take a little time to charge and may render useless in areas that lack sunlight. For these reasons, the scope of use of solar generators for homeowners is still limited. However, if one is looking for an alternative power source as a backup for their property, installing a rooftop or ground-mounted solar system with an attached battery is ideal. 

How Do Solar Generators Work?

A solar generator is made of three key components, these include the battery back, an inverter and a charge controller. All these units work together to transform the solar energy into electrical current. Each of the components used in a solar generator is used to match the electricity rating of the device that is receiving the power. Generally, a standard voltage rating is used which stands at 12, 48, or 24 volts.

Generally, most solar generators use Lithium-ion batteries since they are quite affordable and have a long life span. Additionally, Lead-acid batteries are also being used now since they act as an intermittent source of energy that can be stored to be used later.

After the battery, the charger controller is used for regulating the electrical current to ensure that no damage takes place. In other words, the charge controller does not allow too much current to be sent to the batteries. The reference point of the amount of charge a battery can take is indicated on it.

Most of the electrical devices that are used daily use AC and thus the inverters are used to converting direct current to alternating current. However, gadgets that use direct currents do not require an inverter. The inverter just pumps up the voltage of the appliance from 12, 24 48 volts to 110 or 240 volts.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Generators?

There are majorly two types of solar generators:

• Portable Solar Power Generators 
• Solar Backup Generators

Portable Solar Power Generators:

A portable solar power generator allows one the scope to enjoy renewable electricity on the move. Naturally, these types of solar generators are quite lighter than the backup types. They can be stored, packed, and moved easily. 

These types of solar generators are ideal for camping, emergencies, and outdoor events. These serve as a great backup source. Though these have low wattage capacity, they are still perfect for charging smartphones, portable televisions, laptops, lights, and other devices. The best part is that these sorts of solar generators can be charged through AC outlets of even through car adaptors. 

Even if the generator runs out of change there is nothing to worry about, The solar panels will help recharge the battery for subsequent use. To take the easy to carry benefit of these generators a step forward, some portable solar panels come equipped with a handle that ensures steady movement of the device. 

Solar Backup Generator:

If constant power outrage is driving you crazy, installing a solar backup generator is a practical solution. These are designed to provide a form of energy power backup in case there is a power failure. Since these are generally an alternative source of power, they have high wattage capacity and often come equipped with multiple batteries to maximize power storage. While portable ones can be carried from one place to another, these ones are essentially designed for crucial devices and electronic devices at home. Be it lights, television, computers, or any small to mid-range gadgets, this generator supplies power to all. These are the most efficient power generators one can get without installing a complete setup. These have multiple AC outlets and thus make way for easy use.

A high-wattage solar panel can charge the solar generator to full capacity in less than two days. However, it depends on the weather condition to some extent as well. It is advisable to keep the generator charged up to ensure an uninterrupted flow of energy at home. 

Since solar generators are clean energy, it does not produce any harmful gas in the air and is extremely silent, unlike all diesel-powered generators. That means the unit can be kept indoors. Despite the fact that these units are heavy and setting them takes a lot of time, solar backup generators are problem-free. 

Why Choose Solar Generators?

There are many advantages to having a solar generator. Since the sun shines for free, the generators make cost-efficient clean energy that does not impact the environment and lead to global warming. That is one of the major advantages, however, there are more:

Portable:

Most fuel-powered generators have their engines full of fuel which increases their weight. Additionally, the batteries- too add to the overall weight of the unit. A solar-powered generator has only one battery which means that its weight is quite less than a conventional generator. This also adds to its portability. It can be moved from one place to another without much effort. There are plenty of models that weigh less than 25 pounds. Additionally, different companies are coming up with more portable designs like a briefcase with a handle. These led to the easy movement of the units.

Quiet:

Solar generators do not have any engines so they do not create any noise pollution compared to all the conventional fuel-powered generators. Additionally, solar generators do not have any moving parts, and thus the shaking noise that is emitted by the fuel-powered units are not present. The only noise solar generators produce is a light buzzing sound of the inverter but that sound is too minimal, almost negligible. Thus solar generators are ideal for outdoor activities, it does not bother others around.

Doesn’t Emit Fumes:

We all know the downside of excessive carbon dioxide emission in the air. While fuel-powered units are guilty of contributing to environmental damage and air population with their fume generation, solar-powered generators are free from that. This is all the more reason to switch to a solar generator. Additionally, it can be kept both indoors and outdoors with no worries about any environmental impact.

What To Look For When Buying a Solar Generator?

Battery Capacity: This factor determines the reliability of the solar generator. The primary idea is to take energy from the sunlight and store the same in the batteries. Once stored, this power can be used when there is limited sunlight. The capacity is measured in amp-hours. 

However, it is very difficult to estimate the ideal battery capacity based on this particular measurement since most of the power applications are measured in wattage. 

Ideally, it is advisable to have a battery that can handle more than the required amount of power. But using the battery to its full capacity must be avoided as it can impact the lifespan of the battery. 

Size:

The size of the generator is depicted in watts and surge watts. The continuous watt represents the power a generator can produce constantly. To identify the suitable continuous watt, one has to add a number of watt per hour required by the device. Following that it needs to be multiplied by the number of hours it would be used for. 

Surge watt rating refers to the capacity of the initial burst right after starting the motors. The surge lasts usually less than a second. 

Weight:

This factor plays a major role as it determines the portability of the solar generator. Models that are heavy are not ideal to be placed outdoors, unlike the lightweight ones. However, with the weight of the generator, the battery power of the same also reduces. 

The weight range of generators generally starts from 20 pounds. The panels are the heaviest component which increases the weight of the same. A lightweight frame and component affect durability to a great extent. 

Watts:

The capacity of a solar generator is measured by watt. This when applied to the power usage turns into watt-hours. This it is crucial to check the wattage of a portable solar generator before buying. The calculation of the watt and watt-hour is confusing, thus as a rule of thumb, it’s important to consider the power requirements before the purchase of a solar generator. 

The Number of Plugs:

All generators have input and output plugs. Some of which are:

Inputs:

A solar generator charges by including the power source into the battery. Thus a port to charge the battery is required. There are many generators that also come with a DC charging port. But it can also be purchased separately.

Outputs:

Once the battery is charged, several devices and gadgets can be plugged into the output units. Almost all solar units have AC, DC and USB plugs for powering up appliances. Previously, all generators had 2 or 4 output ports. But that number of ports limited the number of appliances that can be plugged into the generator.

Power Expandability:

It may so happen that you might not be aware of the exact power requirement. In such cases, one can opt for the solar generators that come with extra solar panels or even an extra battery or two.

Things To Avoid While Buying A Solar Generator:

Most solar generators earlier were made out of proprietary component that did not allow the unit to expand or upgrade and came paired with off-the-shelf components. Even today, there are some units that have batteries which cannot be replaced if anything is damaged. One has to buy a replacement directly from the manufacturer in this case. These drawbacks kill the purpose of having a spare generator for emergency purposes. 

The proprietary system can be an ideal option but the risks they pose against the benefits they offer should be taken into consideration. 

Following things must be avoided while purchasing a solar unit:

• Incomplete setups that require the purchase of additional costly component
• Proprietary unit for which additionally parts are not being made anymore
• Electronic elements that are not waterproof
• Units that have minimum warranty or units manufactured from companies that have no industry presence

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Generators:

Each technology has its own advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to us to decide which outweighs the other to decide whether or not to invest in that technology. A solar generator is no different. Below are a few advantages of a solar generator followed by a few disadvantages to help you select one that fits your purpose. 

Advantages of Solar Generator:

Environmental Friendly:

Most generators usually make use of fossil fuels to power up which increases carbon dioxide in the air and contributes to air pollution. However, solar generators on the other hand use sunlight which is an alternative clean source of energy. Thus a solar generator releases less or almost no harmful gas and thus does not contribute to the greenhouse effect. Additionally, traditional generators create a lot of noise, a solar generator on the other hand produces no noise and thus not add to noise pollution in any way.

Extended Benefits:

As the name suggests, solar generators use the energy of the sun to produce electricity, and the sun’s energy is free! That means one does not require an additional amount to be spent and it turns out to be cost-saving in the long run.

Low Maintenance:

Most solar generators don’t have moving parts plus they don’t require additional fuel to function as well. That means it requires no cost for maintenance which is an added benefit.

Easy To Use:

Once a solar generator is set up it runs of 24 hours and requires no attention and monitoring. The sun recharges the battery in the daylight and the unit functions and supplies energy to the devices when required. If there is sufficient energy during the day, there is no need to worry about additional power.

Disadvantages of Solar Generator:

Sensitivity to Temperature:

Though it’s an irony a lot of the all-in-one portable generators cannot stand continued heat and hot temperatures for a very long time. So if a generator is being used in a hot climate for a long time, one has to ensure that the power station itself is turned on and kept in cooler temperatures while at the same time positing the solar panels for the maximum exposure. 

Note: It is advisable to search for solar generators that have a Battery Management System of BMS. This is a very unique feature which controls the temperature of the power station. 

Inconsistent Supply of Energy:

The energy and the light for the sun is not constant. There are certain places in the world that get only a few hours of sunlight. These factors impact the amount of energy that can be absorbed by the solar panels. 

Solar generators work their best in tropical and subtropical regions where there is ample sunlight. Sadly, a solar generator is less effective in areas where there is a seasonal difference in the hours of sunlight. 

Price:

Though there is a wide range of solar generators in the market, most of them are a little pricy when compared to the amount of energy it produces against the price tag. This is because the energy itself is more expensive than regular fuel energy. 

Thus, when a portable solar power station is installed, the initial investment seems quite huge. However, the maintenance cost and running cost of a solar generator is less than a regular unit. 

Big size and Power:

Solar power generators made for light use weigh less compared to conventional generators and invertors. However, if the power of a solar generator is to be matched with a fuel-powered generator, then one has to opt for a heavier one. 

In other words, lightweight generators can only store so much power. As the weight increases the power increases. 

Charges Slowly:

Though most all-in-one portable power stations have three different charging points, all the charging options are generally slow. Usually, 8 hours or more is required for a solar generator to recharge.

This long charge time can be very ineffective in emergency situations. Manufacturers, however, try to limit the inconvenience by using multiple solar panels that can store the energy but these are always less effective than a full charge.

Manufacturers also install rechargeable batteries that can be used during charging. However, this facility is not there in every solar generator model.

Solar Generator Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best solar generator?

The Portable Power Station RAVPower is the best solar generator to look into. The unit is back by HyperAir technology which leads to fast wiring charging. The accessories that come along with this unit make it the ideal generator to be used outdoors.

The best part is that the unit is compatible with QC speed charging which makes it ideal for all QC devices. The unit comes complete with a carrying case and an auxiliary flashlight which makes this unit the best for outdoor activities.

What size solar generator do I need?

This will depend greatly on the purpose the solar generator is to be used for. If it’s for a camping trip or for an outdoor event, then the size of the generator can be small. However, if the solar generator is to be used as a backup power supply for the entire house, then it has to be big enough to support all the home appliances.

As a general rule of thumb, the generator should be twice the size of the inverter’s consistent output. For instance, a 5000-watt generator should only be paired with a 10000-watt generator. This is mostly because the generator needs to charge the batteries while still supplying power to the appliances. It’s advisable to provide a certain amount of headroom to the generator, especially if the generator is placed in higher elevations. In such places, the generator loses some amount of power.

Are solar generators worth it?

Solar generators do come very handy for those looking for an alternative source of clean energy. However, since it does not use fossil fuels it lags a bit from the other conventional form of generators. Additionally, the initial cost of setting up the same is also quite high. That being said, solar generators especially the portable ones come in very handy on camping trips, or even in emergency situations. In case of a load shedding or a power outage in the city, a portable solar generator comes in very handy. For those planning to make a shift from conventional sources of energy to solar ones, trying out a portable solar generator is a good place to start.

Can a solar generator power a house?

Yes, it can. However, a single solar generator or a DIY setup cannot do it. To power an entire house with all its appliances, one needs multiple generators or a customized setup. There are multiple medium and large-sized generators available in the market that one can look into, however before that one has to consider how much power will be required to charge up the entire house along with all its appliances.

Though this varies as different people want to use solar power to charge different appliances. For starters, it’s advisable to determine which all appliances will be powered with solar energy. Following that it’s crucial to determine how much energy each of the appliances will require. Finally, based on all the calculations, a solar unit can be selected.

How portable should the generator be?

Most portable solar generators are designed for easy transport and travelling. The size, weight and portability of these solar generators make them the ideal power units for outdoor travel.

However, before buying a portable solar generator, one has to consider two primary concepts, dimension and weight of the unit. If one plans to travel with a portable solar generator, they have to consider the amount of space they will have to set up the unit in the trunk of the car. Thus a portable solar generator should be as compact as possible, at the same time powerful enough to recharge the basic appliances one plans to take on the trip. To that end, a 12-pound portable solar generator can be ideal.

Is solar energy enough?

Solar energy is an alternate, eco-friendly energy source that is quite powerful and can be used to run multiple devices. Not only is the energy renewable, but it is also easy to maintain and reduces electric bills of owners to a great extent. Additionally, a home powered with solar energy is more protected against power outages. The best part is that solar energy can power up myriads of appliances, be it a fridge, laptop or phone. Of course one would require a high power heavy generator to supply power to all these appliances, but at the end of the day, solar energy should be enough to function as the ideal energy source.

Conclusion:

Choosing the ideal solar generator for home use and for an outing is one of the most crucial yet a very challenging task. If one fails to select the best unit that is compatible with their gadgets and appliances, they might be stranded in the darkness when they desperately require some power source.

The task gets even more difficult as there are multiple brands in the market with units that come with conflicting features. With so many options to choose from, one might find it extremely confusing to select one that is the best. Thus we have handpicked 12 units which you can look into. Additionally, this article covers an extensive buying guide and all the things you need to know before you make the purchase.

References:

• https://www.wsj.com/articles/prep-your-tech-for-power-outages-and-other-emergencies-11600606800
• https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2020/09/outback-power-enters-solar-storage-generator-partnership-with-bay-city-electric-works/
• https://solarbuildermag.com/featured/solar-whatever-different-ways-installers-can-provide-home-energy-resilience/