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What is a solar generator?

Solar generators are portable battery storage systems powered by solar panels. Unlike solar-plus-storage systems, solar generators are not designed to back up major appliances in the event of an outage. You can compare solar generators by assessing the watts and watt-hours of the systems, as well as their battery chemistries.

Are solar generators portable?

Solar generators are available as both portable generators and backup home generators. Most solar generators are portable, lightweight, and have a built-in handle. The best portable solar generators are used to provide power for construction sites, campers, events, or other settings where access to electricity is limited.

Are solar panels a generator?

Solar panels can’t act as generators on their own – the electricity they generate needs to be stored somewhere. So, solar generators typically consist of two main products: solar panels and a battery storage system. When you place your solar panels out in the sun, they generate direct current (DC) electricity.

Can a solar generator power a house?

If you're looking to power your entire house on a backup generator system, solar may not be the way to go. You can easily recharge small electronics and operate certain appliances with a solar generator but don't expect to be able to keep your fridge, TV, and lighting systems all operational for very long.

Can a solar generator be used as a whole home power backup?

Given their portability and ease of operation, solar generators offer a unique energy solution for those on the move who need some extra electricity. That being said, the limited power capacity, slow recharge time, and dependence on the sun limit the usability of solar generators as whole home power backup systems.

How to choose a solar generator?

You can compare solar generators by assessing the watts and watt-hours of the systems, as well as their battery chemistries. The pros of solar generators include free renewable energy, low maintenance costs, and clean and quiet operation, whereas the cons include limited power supply, high upfront price, and slow charge time.