What is a solar generator?
When most people think of generators, they think of loud machines that run on gasoline or natural gas. Many generators are like this, but some operate on solar energy. "Solar generators technically refer to any generator that relies on solar energy for operation. Most people refer to" solar generators "as easily transportable machines consisting of solar panels, solar charging controllers, batteries, and inverters.".
Because they are lightweight and relatively quiet to operate, solar generators are ideal for providing power for road travel and camping. With a solar generator, you don't have to worry about running out of power on your iPhone or laptop. You can also power mini refrigerators and other small appliances. In the event of a power outage or other emergency, some people will also use solar generators as backup power sources, although most people cannot power your entire family or even some larger appliances, such as dryers or washing machines.
If you are interested in purchasing a solar generator that can be used as a backup power source during a power outage, you should first ensure that you understand the electricity usage in your home. This will help you determine whether solar generators are suitable for you and which type best meets your needs.
How does a solar generator work?
The working principle of a solar generator is to convert the energy generated by the sun into electrical energy. "Once photons or light particles strike a solar panel, they release electrons from the atoms, transforming them into direct current (DC) electricity.". This charge then passes through the charger controller, which regulates the voltage as electrical energy enters the battery to protect it from damage.
Next, the battery stores electrical energy in the form of chemical energy until it is connected to an electrical appliance. The charge then passes through an inverter, which converts direct current into alternating current. The converter must also raise the rated voltage from 12, 24, or 48 volts to the voltage required by the device, typically 110 or 240 volts. The current then flows through the extension cable to supply power to the electrical equipment.
Solar generators are very different from traditional fuel powered generators. Like internal combustion engines used in fuel powered generators, internal combustion engines burn fuel to move pistons and generate mechanical energy, while solar generators convert sunlight directly into mechanical energy. This makes solar generators quieter and cleaner than fuel powered generators, but also with less power.
Advantages and disadvantages of solar generators
The unique way solar generators generate and store energy has certain advantages and disadvantages. The most obvious advantage is that solar generators do not require fuel, which means you do not have to worry about paying or storing gasoline or propane connected to natural gas pipelines. This also means that you don't need to worry about pollutants such as carbon monoxide. In fact, solar generators are safe enough to operate indoors. They are very environmentally friendly and have very little noise.
Because solar generators have no moving parts, they also require less maintenance and may have a longer service life than fuel powered generators. As a result, you can save on fuel and maintenance costs. However, they tend to be more expensive. On average, the cost of a solar portable generator may be around 5000 yuan, while the cost of a gasoline powered portable generator is only 2500 yuan. However, portable solar and fuel powered generators are relatively inexpensive investments compared to the cost of full house generators.
