What Is A Solar Generator: A Complete Guide

Solar generators generate energy for household or industrial consumption by utilizing sunlight. Sun is one of man’s primary and cheapest renewable energy sources. Solar generators gained popularity when environmental degradation became a major concern. Today, solar generators are widely used for camping, RV, emergency preparedness, and as a backup power source for homes and businesses.

We have come across several questions on the internet. Many people are asking, “can a solar generator power a house” “how does a solar generator work? How long do solar generators last”? And a lot of other questions. All these questions will be discussed in detail in this guide.

What Is a Solar Generator?

A solar generator is a machine used to generate electricity using the energy from the sun. Solar generators utilize solar panels to trap the energy from the sunlight. This energy is stored as DC that needs to be converted to AC for domestic or commercial use. The AC power is stored in the battery and converted to DC by an inverter. 

They are environmentally friendly alternatives to generating electricity. Solar generators are noiseless and do not release hazardous fumes to the environment. 

Solar generators are suitable for residential apartments, camping, powering home appliances, and bigger solar generators can be used for agriculture.

Four Major Components for the Solar Generator

There are 4 major solar generator components, they are:

• Solar panels – Solar panels are usually mounted outdoors in a field or on the roof of a building. Generally in places where they are exposed to sunlight. Solar panels trap sunlight, which is the main energy source for a solar generator.

There are 3 major types of solar panels. They are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film.

• Charge controller – Solar charge controllers are important components in solar generators. They are used to control and regulate the amount of solar charge stored. If no charge controllers are in place, the batteries can get damaged from overcharging.

• Batteries – Solar batteries are used to store batteries for later use. When the inverters convert the DC energy to a usable AC, they are stored in the battery and reused when the sun is down.

• Inverter – Solar inverter is needed to convert the energy from the solar panel into more usable energy. The solar panels convert electrical energy to DC which cannot be used to charge phones, laptops, and other appliances. The inverter makes this energy from the solar panel useful for direct consumption.

All these components are connected to form a solar generator. The capacity of the generator and its efficiency depend on the capacity of individual components that make up the solar generator. 

How Does a Solar Generator Work?

A solar generator is a type of power source that generates electricity by harnessing the energy of the sun using solar panels. Solar panels are also called PV modules or photovoltaic modules because of the assembly of photovoltaic solar cells mounted on them. Solar panels harness energy from the sun by using these photovoltaic cells.

The electrical energy obtained from the sun is in the form of a direct current (DC). The DC needs to be converted to consumable energy that can power appliances. This is what an inverter does. An inverter converts the DC from the solar panel into an AC that the solar battery can store.

Solar generators are equipped with solar controllers. This constitutes the major control unit of the solar system. The charge controllers control the charge and discharge of the solar battery. A number of solar generator manufacturers use Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) or Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the charge that goes into the solar batteries. 

Benefits of a Solar-Powered Generator

Several benefits come with using a solar powered generator for home, and other usages. Here are some of the key benefits derived from using solar generators over other types of generators.

• Portability: Being a lightweight device, solar generators are very portable and can suitably serve as a power source anywhere. They can be used in RVs, on the road, camping, or on boats because you do not need to carry extra fuel as in the case of the traditional gas-powered generators. Their lightweight property gives them an edge when it comes to these applications.
• Quiet: Another great property of solar generators that makes them ideal for a wide range of applications is that they are quiet. You do not want to have a noisy generator ruin your fun outdoor experience. Unlike non-solar generators which can be very noisy, especially in small spaces such as tiny homes and RVs, solar generators are completely quiet. Since these generators have no moving parts, the amount of noise generated while it is running is non-existent.
• No smell: Solar-powered generators do not smell as they have no use for fossil fuels. When these fuels are used in traditional combustion generators, the generator begins to stink after some time and causes nasal discomfort to its users. Solar generators do not require these fuels.
• Environmentally friendly: Solar generators run on solar energy, which is a clean and renewable form of energy. In the case of traditional generators, there is a high risk of environmental pollution because these generators rely on fossil fuels to get started. Unlike these, solar generators are eco-friendlier since they do not release any pollutants when they store and release energy. What this implies is that you get to reduce your carbon footprint when you use solar generators to power your homes, RVs, boats, and camping trips.
• Low maintenance: Solar-powered generators for homes require little to no maintenance. Since there are no moving parts, solar generators have low chance of mechanical problems. Also, they save you from the stress of changing oil, handling gasoline, or changing air filters.
• Low cost: The cost of the solar generator is cheap compared with traditional generators. This is because traditional generators make use of fossil fuels, which add up to the cost of the generator. These fuels are also not reliable for long-term use because their prices and availability fluctuate.

Solar generators rely on sunlight as a source of energy. So once you have set up your generator, it costs nothing for it to run. This makes solar generators the most reliable option, especially in disasters.

Cons of Solar Generators

Some cons of solar-powered generators are:

• Slow recharge rate: Unlike traditional generators that can be refueled at any time, solar generator batteries have to be charged in the presence of sunlight. They also take a considerable amount of time to charge.
• Limited power supply: The amount of power the solar generator can provide is limited by its size and the amount of sunlight the panel is exposed to. The average traditional generator on the other hand can power many items at once for a long time.

Applications of Solar Generators

Solar generators serve human needs in different ways. Solar generator manufacturers adapt their generators to be useful at home, for camping, for businesses, and for recreational vehicles.

Solar powered generator for home

1. Backup power: Solar generators can be used as backup power during outages or blackouts to provide electricity to essential appliances and devices.
2. Lighting and making interior spaces comfortable: For those who live off the grid, a solar generator can provide a reliable source of power for lighting, heating, cooling, and other essential household functions. 

Solar-powered generators for homes can be connected to bulbs and give light to dark spaces when there is a power outage. Besides lightening interior spaces, they can power outdoor lighting, such as garden lights, patio lights, and security lights, without needing electrical outlets. Also, they can be used to heat or cool an apartment. 

1. Charging devices: Solar generators can be used to charge smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices, making them a convenient source of power when away from electrical outlets.
2. Kitchen appliances: Solar generators can be used to power appliances in the kitchen, including coffee makers, toasters, and refrigerators.
3. Water pumping: Solar generators can be used to power water pumps for irrigation, pool filtration systems, or other water-based applications.

Solar power generator for camping

Solar generators can be a convenient and eco-friendly power source for camping trips. Here are some of the ways they can be used while camping:

1. Lighting: Solar generators can be used to power portable lights, lanterns, and headlamps, providing light in remote camping locations without the need for electrical outlets.
2. Charging devices: Solar generators can be used to charge smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices, ensuring that you stay connected even in the great outdoors.
3. Cooking: Solar generators can be used to power portable stoves, hot plates, and other cooking equipment, making it possible to cook and prepare meals while camping.
4. Entertainment: Solar generators can be used to power portable radios, speakers, and other entertainment devices, providing music and other forms of entertainment while camping.
5. Fridges and coolers: Solar generators can be used to power portable fridges and coolers, keeping food and drinks cold and fresh while camping.

Solar-powered generator for RV

Solar generators can be a valuable power source for recreational vehicles (RVs) as they provide a clean and renewable energy source. Here are some of the ways solar generators can be used in RVs:

1. Backup power: Solar generators for RVs can provide backup power in case of power outages, ensuring that essential appliances and devices can still be used.
2. Lighting: Solar generators can be used to power interior and exterior lighting, including overhead lights, reading lights, and exterior security lights.
3. Entertainment: Solar generators can be used to power televisions, DVD players, and other entertainment devices, providing a source of entertainment while on the road.
4. Climate control: Solar generators can be used to power air conditioning and heating systems, ensuring that the temperature inside the RV is comfortable and controlled.

Solar generator for business

Solar generators can be a valuable source of power for businesses, as they offer a clean and renewable energy source. Here are some of the ways solar generators can be used in a business setting:

1. Backup power: Solar generators can provide backup power during outages or blackouts, ensuring that essential operations can continue during power disruptions.
2. Remote locations: Solar generators can be used to power equipment and appliances in remote locations, such as construction sites, oil rigs, and remote offices.
3. Retail locations: Solar generators can be used to power lighting, displays, and point-of-sale systems in retail locations, providing a convenient and eco-friendly source of power.
4. Telecommunications: Solar generators can power telecommunications equipment, including cell towers and satellite dishes, in remote locations where grid power is unavailable.

Considerations of Sourcing Solar Generators

For individual buyers

An individual buyer might decide to buy solar generators for home use or solar power generator for camping or other uses. Either way, the choice of the solar-powered generator must meet their needs.

Individual buyers are expected to ask themselves certain questions before purchasing their solar generators. Individual buyers should know the solar generator cost, and solar generator components, they need to ask. These and many more should be considered when sourcing solar generators from a solar generator manufacturer.

There are several important considerations that individual buyers should take into account when sourcing solar generators:

1. Power Output: It is important to consider the power output of the solar generator for your power needs. Different solar generators have different capacities. If it has a higher output that is more likely to meet your power need. On the other hand, if the power output is less than the total requirement, the solar generator can not be effective for the user. 
2. Battery Capacity: The battery capacity of the solar generator is another important consideration. The answer to how long solar generators last depends on the capacity of the solar generator. Look for a generator with a high enough capacity to keep your devices running for an extended period.
3. Portability: Individual buyers should also consider the weight and size of the solar-powered generator and their intended use. If you plan to use it for outdoor activities such as camping or picnics, look for a generator that is easy to carry and set up. And for a more stationary setup, the weight might not be really important.
4. Ease of Use: Individual buyers should consider the ease of using their generators. It is advisable to ask for pieces of information on how the solar generator works. And go for generators that are easy to operate and come with clear instructions. Some generators require specialized knowledge to operate, so consider your level of technical expertise before making a purchase.
5. Cost: Finally, consider the cost of the solar generator and whether it fits within your budget. Keep in mind that some of the most expensive generators may not necessarily be the best option for your needs.

For professional buyers (B2B businesses)

1. Warranty and Customer Support: Professional buyers should look for solar generators that come with comprehensive warranties and customer support services, as this will ensure they have access to the help they need if they encounter any problems or issues.
2. Price: Solar generators can range in price from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Professional buyers should look for models that offer good value for money, taking into account factors such as the quality, capacity, and battery life of the solar generator.
3. Capacity and Power Output: Solar generators come in different sizes and capacities, and the amount of power they can produce varies. Professional buyers should determine their specific energy needs and select a generator that can meet those needs.
4. Quality and Reliability: Solar generators must be able to produce a consistent, steady flow of electricity in all weather conditions. Professional buyers should look for brands and models with a reputation for quality and reliability.
5. Compatibility: Solar generators must be compatible with the existing energy systems. So professional buyers should ensure that the models they are considering are compatible with the most popular needs and systems in the market.

In addition to these considerations, it is also a good idea to read reviews and compare the features of different solar generators to ensure you are making an informed purchase.

Best Solar-Powered Generator from WHC

WHC is a solar generator manufacturer. They have a wide range of solar generators with different power capacities suitable for different usages.

Some of the best solar-powered generators produced by WHC include:

1. WHC SPS-5000W portable solar generator 

The SPS-5000W portable solar generator is a desirable generator capable of generating 2KW, 3KW, and up to 5KW capacity. Its lightweight and portable design makes it most suitable for camping, and picnics. It is great for both indoor and outdoor usage.

The solar generator uses an MPPT controller for overcharge protection and over-discharge protection for longer battery life. It has overall automatic protection, an alarm system, and an AC output overload short circuit protection system that can greatly improve the battery life by 30%

Features of SPS-5000W portable solar generator:

• Long lifespan – The generator is built with a LiFePO4 Lithium Battery, that has a long service span of 5 years.
• Portable – the name in itself suggests that it is a portable device that can be easily transported to different places. In addition, the device is lightweight and does not consume a lot of your storage space.
• Various charging modes – the solar generator supports charging via different modes. It supports charging with an electricity supply and solar charging. Therefore you do not have to worry about not getting enough sun during winter. 
• Noise – It is suitable for household and business settings because of its unique design, which aims at minimizing noise while in operation.

Also, the SPS-5000W portable generator comes with 4 pieces of 400W Solar Mono Panel,1 piece of AC cable, a piece of PV cable, and a user manual that contains detailed information on the usage and installation of the device.

2. WHC Scholar SPS-1000W Portable Solar Generator

The SPS-1000W portable generator is a powerful solar generator that can deliver up to 500W to 1000W of power, making it ideal for use in a variety of different settings. It features a high-capacity battery and a built-in solar panel for easy recharging, and its compact and portable design makes it easy to transport.

An MPPT controller is used by the solar generator to safeguard batteries from overcharging and over-discharging. The battery life may be significantly increased by 30% thanks to its overall automatic protection, alert system, and AC output overload short circuit prevention system.

Features of the SPS-1000W portable generator include:

• Long lifespan – The generator is built with a LiFePO4 Lithium Battery that has a long service span of 5 years.
• Portable – the name in itself suggests that it is a portable device that can be easily transported to different places. In addition, the device is lightweight and does not consume a lot of your storage space.
• Various charging modes – the solar generator supports charging via different modes. It supports charging with an electricity supply and solar charging. Therefore you do not have to worry about not getting enough sun during winter. 
• Noise – It is suitable for household and business settings because of its unique design, which aims at minimizing noise while in operation.

Conclusion

The importance of owning a generator in the 21st century cannot be overemphasized. Human beings depend on electricity for our daily activities and while we can meet these needs with fuel-powered generators and other means, solar generators provide a portable and cost-effective way of meeting these needs.

The cost of solar generators is cheap compared to the long-term benefit to human beings and the environment. The answer to “how much does a solar generator cost” depends on the electrical need of a person or business. 

Contact us today and get a free quote!