Portable Solar Generators
  1. Understand the Basics of Portable Solar Generators

A portable solar generator is a self-contained power system that uses solar panels to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. This electricity is stored in a battery and later used to power various devices and appliances. Solar generators are portable, making them easy to transport and set up during emergencies. They are also quiet and produce no emissions, unlike traditional gas-powered generators.

  1. Determine Your Power Needs

Before selecting a solar generator, you need to determine your power needs during an emergency. Make a list of the essential devices and appliances you’ll need to operate during a power outage, such as lights, fans, refrigerators, and communication devices. Calculate the total wattage of these items to determine the required output capacity of the solar generator. Keep in mind that it’s better to overestimate your power needs slightly to ensure you have enough capacity during an emergency.

  1. Consider Battery Capacity and Charging Time

The battery capacity of a solar generator determines how much energy it can store and provide during a power outage. Higher-capacity batteries can store more energy and power your devices for longer periods. Check the generator’s specifications for the battery capacity, usually measured in watt-hours (Wh). Also, consider the charging time of the battery, which indicates how long it takes for the solar panels to fully charge the battery. In general, larger solar panels can charge the battery faster.

  1. Look for Essential Features and Connectivity Options

When choosing a portable solar generator, look for essential features such as multiple output ports, including USB, 12V DC, and standard AC outlets. These ports will allow you to connect a variety of devices and appliances to the generator. Additionally, a built-in inverter is crucial, as it converts the battery’s stored DC power into AC power, which is required for most household appliances. Ensure the inverter has a sufficient output capacity to power your devices.

  1. Compare Portability and Durability

Since you’ll likely need to transport and set up the solar generator during an emergency, portability is a key factor. Look for a generator with a compact design, sturdy handle, and lightweight construction to make transportation and setup easy. Additionally, consider the durability of the generator, as it should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling during emergencies. Choose a solar generator with weather-resistant panels and a robust, protective casing.

 

10 Best Solar Generators Available Today

Rank Product Name Pros Cons
1 Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Long battery life
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Pure sine wave output
  • Not as powerful as some other generators
  • Expensive
  • Solar panels not included
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
2 BLUETTI Portable Power Station EB3A
  • Powerful and versatile
  • Long battery life
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Fast charging
  • Expensive
  • Not as lightweight as some other generators
  • Solar panels not included
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
3 Portable Power Station 300W GRECELL 288Wh Solar Generator with 60W USB-C PD Output
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Solar panels included
  • Not as powerful as some other generators
  • Battery life is shorter than some other generators
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
4 MARBERO 88Wh Portable Power Station 24000mAh Camping Solar Generator (Solar Panel Not Included)
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Solar panels optional
  • Not as powerful as some other generators
  • Battery life is shorter than some other generators
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
5 Anker 521 Portable Power Station 256Wh Solar Generator (Solar Panel Optional) with LiFePO4 Battery Pack, 200W 6-Port PowerHouse, 2 AC Outlets, 60W USB-C PD Output, LED Light for Outdoor Camping, RV
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Solar panels optional
  • Not as powerful as some other generators
  • Battery life is shorter than some other generators
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
6 Goal Zero Yeti 400 Portable Power Station
  • Powerful and versatile
  • Long battery life
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Solar panels optional
  • Expensive
  • Not as lightweight as some other generators
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
7 EcoFlow RIVER Portable Power Station
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Solar panels optional
  • Not as powerful as some other generators
  • Battery life is shorter than some other generators
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
8 Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station
  • Powerful and versatile
  • Long battery life
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Solar panels optional
  • Expensive
  • Not as lightweight as some other generators
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
9 BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station
  • Extremely powerful
  • Long battery life
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Fast charging
  • Expensive
  • Not as lightweight as some other generators
  • Solar panels not included
  • Some users have reported quality control issues
10 EcoFlow DELTA 1300 Portable Power Station
  • Extremely powerful
  • Long battery life
  • Multiple charging ports
  • Fast charging
  • Expensive
  • Not as lightweight as some other generators
  • Solar panels not included
  • Some users have reported quality control issues