A solar generator is a cost-efficient energy source that charges up with the help of sunlight. It is a high capacity battery power station that uses solar panels to charge up the battery.
It comes in quite handy when you’re in need of a backup power source and there’s none available nearby. You can also trust these generators to juice up your electronic gadgets and appliances when there’s a blackout or power outage.
Solar generators have become more popular for many homes and businesses throughout the years. This is mainly because of its versatility as a clean, renewable source of energy. Plus, it can be used in a variety of applications, depending on the type of solar generator.
Article Quick Links:
- Types of Solar Generator
- Components of a Solar Generator
- Benefits of Solar Generators
- Comparison with Traditional Gas Generators
- Common Use Cases for Solar Generators
Types of Solar Generators
Did you know that there are two types of solar generators? One is called a solar backup generator, while the other is a portable solar generator.
At its core, these two are almost the same but work differently in terms of use and application. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between these two types of generators.
Solar Backup Generators
If a house or building is solar-powered, it’s likely the work of a solar backup generator. This type of generator is stationary in an establishment and directly linked to its electric panel.
Hence the name, it usually acts as a backup source of energy whenever the power goes out. As soon as it detects a power outage, it automatically activates to restore the establishment’s electricity.
Portable Solar Generators
Portable solar generators may be a bit smaller in size but are still heavy nonetheless. These portable generators are more convenient since you can use them for travel.
Think of it as an oversized power bank that’s capable of running various electronics. However, instead of just phones and tablets, you can power electronic appliances and even RVs on the go.
Components of Solar Generator
A solar generator has four main components, namely:
- Solar panels
- A solar battery
- An inverter
- A charge controller
Solar panels are the generator’s basis for operation. These panels are responsible for absorbing sunlight to be later converted into energy.
After the solar panels absorb energy from sunlight, it gets stored in the solar battery as stock energy. This allows its user to power up establishments and electronics at a later time.
In the energy conversion process, the inverter turns the direct current (DC) from solar panels into alternating current (AC). This allows most appliances to operate using the solar generator since they usually run on an AC.
As for the charge controller, it basically prevents overcharging in solar batteries. It does this by putting a limit to how much the battery can store and controlling its charge rate.
Benefits of Using a Solar Generator
Here are some of the notable benefits of using a solar generator:
- Clean and free renewable source of energy
- Useful in times of emergency, such as blackouts and power outages
- Doesn’t require the use of fuel
- Low-maintenance power source
- Environment friendly
Why Use a Solar Generator?
Buying a solar generator is a huge investment and is usually not a decision you can make on the fly. However, there’s no denying that it’s worth saving up for.
It can be a lifesaver at times, especially if you’re in dire need of an energy source. What’s more, is that it’s environment friendly.
In today’s time, where climate change is continuously on the rise, we should come up with different ways to combat it. One of the best and most efficient ways to do so is by using solar generators.
Comparison: Solar Generator vs. Traditional Gas Generator
Before solar generators were a thing, people were accustomed to using traditional gas generators. They’re both reliable sources of energy, but how exactly are they different from each other?
First of all, solar generators are more efficient and environmentally friendly than gas generators.
Solar generators store energy using sunlight for later use. This means it can generate power even when the sun’s not out.
As for traditional gas generators, they burn fuel to produce energy. Yes, it’s a reliable energy source as long as you have fuel, but the gasses it emits are harmful to the ozone layer.
On top of that, the engines of gas generators are quite noisy and they’re a bit more complex to operate.
To sum it up, traditional gas generators are:
- Noisy and high-maintenance
- Harmful to the environment
- Needs constant refueling
- More difficult to operate
Common Use Cases For Solar Generators
As we’ve mentioned, solar generators are commonly used as a backup energy source for establishments. However, with a portable solar generator, it’s no longer limited to that.
Since a portable solar generator is easy to transport, its applications have increased. You can use them for the following:
- Home use
- Camping
- RV road trips
- Backpacking
- Boating
- Food trucks
When using it for outdoor or travel purposes, try to be wary of its capacity and usage. Remember that they can take a while to charge up, so plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Solar generators are one of the best alternative energy sources available. They’re reliable, cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and even portable. The only drawbacks are that they’re expensive and can sometimes take a while to fill up.
Those aren’t dealbreakers, though, especially compared to their capabilities and benefits. In the long run, you can expect to save lots of money by investing in a solar generator. Not only that, you get to save the environment as well.