Solar Generator Types – Which Are the Best?

Solar generators allow you to take advantage of the sunshine almost everywhere you go! The image to the right is a solar generator used in an RV. A solar generator utilizes solar cells to absorb the suns energy, store that energy in a rechargeable battery, and use that energy later. Most solar generators are utilized for RV camping, boat trips, and as back-up power during a power outage. The information presented here will help you decide if this is the right technology for you.

Solar generators can be either a passive or active design. The passive type of solar generator utilizes materials such as silicon and copper to convert sunlight into electricity. For most people, passive solar generator designs will be sufficient. Active designs (sometimes referred to as active solar panels) utilize materials such as aluminum, which is effective at converting sunlight directly into electricity. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of design, so it’s a matter of personal preference as to what will work best for you.

When it comes to purchasing solar generators, the two main options are to purchase a stand-alone unit, or to incorporate a solar panel battery charger with the unit. Many people select a stand-alone system because they don’t use solar panels. They simply locate the unit in a convenient place on their property, make their initial investment, and start using it.

If you want portable power station capabilities, it would be more cost effective to purchase a portable power station system. These systems usually incorporate a number of portable solar panels and a backup battery charger. This backup system should also have a maximum output capacity that will meet your needs. Typically, these systems are priced at very affordable rates, allowing families and even individuals to own a totally portable solar generator.

A second option would be to integrate solar generator units with large appliances. For example, if you use a home refrigerator, stove, washer and dryer in addition to your solar generator, you can dramatically reduce your utility bills while allowing you to have electricity for all of your appliances. Not only will you be saving money, but you will be helping to conserve energy resources.

The second option involves using a combination of fuel. In this case, the most common fuel source is gasoline. The gas engine is used to drive the generator; therefore, the intake and exhaust systems need to be cleaned to prevent dangerous leaks. Combination generators can also be fueled by natural gas, propane, kerosene, diesel, or other renewable energy sources. However, the efficiency of natural gas and other fuels is not comparable to that of gasoline, so many experts do not recommend using natural gas or other renewable energy sources as primary fuels when using a solar generator work at home.

The third option involves batteries. Most solar generator units include rechargeable batteries. Typically, these batteries are lead acid; however, there are some battery types on the market today made from lithium ion technology. While these batteries are usually alkaline, they can actually be placed in an acidic environment – such as a salt water solution – and still produce power. Many experts believe that this type of battery will be available for use in the future.

Although solar powered generators require a little more maintenance than most other type of fuel-powered devices, they are considerably more environmentally friendly. Using these devices will help to preserve our environment and reduce our dependence on fossil fuel. It will also allow you to generate electricity without having to pay a major electric bill. However, it is important to remember that these generators will only be able to operate when there is sunlight, so you will want to ensure that your solar generator unit is located in an area where there is plenty of sunshine.