What Size Solar Generator Do I Need?
I have reviewed several portable power stations and solar generators recently, but one area I want to dive deeper into is calculating the size and wattage of the generator you need.
The importance of reliable power has never been more evident. Whether it’s for everyday conveniences, emergency preparedness, or sustainable living, finding the right source of energy can be a pivotal decision.
Choosing the right size solar generator is crucial to ensure it efficiently meets your power needs. The size of the generator you need depends on several factors, including your power requirements, location, and how you plan to use it. In my real-world guide, I will explain how to determine the size of the solar generator you need, with examples of what it can power in various scenarios.
1. Calculate Your Power Requirements:
Before you choose the size of your solar generator, you need to determine your power requirements. Make a list of all the appliances and devices you intend to power using the generator. For each item, note its wattage, which can typically be found on a label or in the product’s user manual.
Example Appliances and Their Wattages:
- Laptop: 50-100 watts
- LED TV: 50-200 watts
- Refrigerator: 100-800 watts (varies by size and efficiency)
- Microwave: 600-1200 watts
- Air Conditioner: 1000-5000 watts
2. Estimate Daily Energy Usage:
Once you have a list of your appliances and their wattages, estimate how many hours each item will be in use during a typical day. Multiply the wattage by the number of hours to calculate the daily energy consumption for each device.
Example:
- Laptop (100 watts) used for 4 hours: 100 watts x 4 hours = 400 watt-hours (Wh) per day
3. Total Daily Energy Consumption:
Add up the daily energy consumption for all your devices to find the total daily energy requirements. This will give you an estimate of how much energy your solar generator needs to produce in a day.
Example:
- Laptop (400 Wh) + LED TV (300 Wh) + Refrigerator (1200 Wh) = 1900 Wh or 1.9 kWh per day
4. Account for Efficiency and Extra Capacity:
Solar generators are not 100% efficient, and you should account for losses due to conversion and storage. A good rule of thumb is to add about 20-30% extra capacity to your daily energy consumption estimate to ensure your generator can meet your needs, especially on cloudy days.
Example:
- 1.9 kWh + 30% = 2.47 kWh per day
5. Consider Your Location:
Your location plays a significant role in determining the size of the solar generator you need. Sunlight availability varies by region and season. Use tools like solar irradiance maps or consult local solar experts to understand how much sunlight you can expect in your area.
6. Battery Capacity:
The battery capacity of your solar generator is critical. It should be large enough to store the excess energy generated during sunny days for use during cloudy or nighttime periods.
7. Portability vs. Stationary:
Consider whether you need a portable solar generator for outdoor activities or a stationary system for backup power at home. Portable generators are typically smaller in capacity.
8. Examples of Solar Generator Sizes and What They Can Power:
Small Portable Generator (300-500 Wh):
- Charging small electronics (phones, tablets).
- Powering LED lighting.
- Running small household appliances such as:
- Desk fans.
- Electric razors.
- Cordless phone chargers.
- CPAP machines for sleep apnea patients.
- Providing power for outdoor activities, camping, or picnics.
- Running a portable speaker or radio.
Medium Portable Generator (1000-1500 Wh):
- Charging multiple devices simultaneously (phones, tablets, laptops).
- Running a LED TV and a laptop.
- Providing backup power for a mini-fridge or small chest freezer.
- Powering a microwave for quick heating of meals.
- Running small power tools like drills and saws.
- Keeping a fish tank or aquarium running.
- Running small space heaters in cold weather.
- Charging electric scooters or e-bikes.
Home Backup System (5-10 kWh or more):
- Powering essential appliances during an outage:
- Refrigerator.
- Lights throughout the house.
- Televisions and entertainment systems.
- Heating or cooling systems (depending on capacity).
- Washing machines and dryers.
- Running power tools for home improvement or DIY projects.
- Charging electric vehicles (EVs) overnight.
- Powering water pumps for wells or irrigation.
- Running larger space heaters or air conditioners.
- Running a home office with multiple computers and printers.
- Charging power-hungry devices like electric lawnmowers.
Off-Grid Cabin or Remote Area (10-20 kWh or more)
- Providing power for an entire off-grid home or cabin.
- Running heavy-duty appliances like large refrigerators, freezers, and ovens.
- Powering a water heater for showers and cooking.
- Operating well pumps for a water supply.
- Running large power tools for construction or workshops.
- Charging multiple electric vehicles or a fleet of electric tools and equipment.
- Supporting a home with a full complement of electrical needs, including air conditioning and heating, without reliance on the grid.
Remember that your specific needs may vary, so it’s essential to customize the size of your solar generator to match your individual requirements. Regularly monitor your energy consumption and adjust your setup if necessary to ensure it meets your needs effectively. Investing in a solar generator that suits your needs will provide you with reliable and sustainable power for years to come.
- Powerful yet Compact: Boasting a 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, the Solar Generator 1000 V2 can power multiple appliances, including AC units, fridges, and electric pots. With a 1,070Wh capacity and a lightweight build of only 23.8 lbs, along with a foldable handle, it makes an excellent companion for outdoor camping, road trips, or emergencies.
- One Hour Fast Charging: Charge your Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station from 0% to 100% battery level in just one hour with emergency charging activated via the Jackery App. It defaults to 1.7 hours for a full charge to optimize battery health. Engineered with advanced ChargeShield 2.0 technology, this power station charges safer, faster, and smarter.
- 10 Year Lifespan: The Explorer 1000 v2 portable power station is equipped with a durable LFP battery, maintaining over 70% of its original capacity even after 4,000 charge cycles, offering longevity exceeding 10 years.
- Tailored for Versatility: Featuring two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one DC car port, and three pure sine wave AC ports, along with LED lights, the Solar Generator 1000 V2 is capable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, meeting power needs in various scenarios. PD 100W fast USB-C charging ensures a rapid charging speed, even without power adapters.
- Smart App Control: Effortlessly switch between different charging modes with Jackery’s App—including one hour emergency charging from 0 to 100%, 30 dB quiet overnight charging mode, and energy efficiency mode. Maximize the freedom to adjust the power station to meet your needs.
- 25 Years Battery Lifespan: Power All Your High-Powered Home Devices With Ease. Up to 57.6kWh Large Battery, 3600W High Power, 120/240V Dual Voltage. Whether it’s in the midst of yard trimming ordésert exploration, the PowerMax 3600’s Anti-UVfeature protects it from fading and aging broughton by prolonged sun exposure, and its UL94V-0flame-retardant case ensures that there is no riskof fires resulting from heat generation.
- 0.8M Vertically Drop-Proof Design: Forged to match the harsh terrain of yourexpeditions,the portable power station 3600 is meticulouslycrafted to withstand vertical falls from heightsof up to 0.8 meters, alleviating concerns ofunintended drops from your grasp whiledetaching it from the car or stairs.
- Smart App Control: Use the PowerMax 3600 app via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Control from afar and customize all settings, such as battery life, input/output, and more. Break down your energy habits or customize your energy usage to fit your needs.
- With 14 output methods: 1*USB-A(12W),3*USB-A(18W), 2*USB-C (100W), 1*Cigarette Lighter Port(120W), 4*AC Outlets, 2*DC Outlets and 1 Anderson port, the solar power station grants the ability to power multiple devices at the same time.
- Dependable After-sales Support: Package includes Blackview Oscal Extra Battery x 1, Battery Expansion Cable x 1, User Manual x 1 and Warranty Card . Enjoy a 4 years of quality service, 24/7 support, and lifetime technical help. If you have any inquiries about solar powered generator, don’t hesitate to reach out to our support!
- 80% UltraFast Recharging in 43 Minutes: Be ready for adventiure in 43 minutes (100% in 58 minutes) with Anker SOLIX C1000. Just use an AC input and turn on UltraFast recharging via the Anker app; a smartphone is required.
- 10-Year Lifespan, 3,000 Battery Cycles: Anker SOLIX C1000 is built to last with over 3,000 battery cycles. So power up, day after day, for 10 years.
- More Ports and Power for 99% of Appliances: SurgePad technology delivers 2400W. That’s enough to power 99% of appliances. And with 11 ports, you can power your devices all at once.
- 4 Set Angles for Max Sunlight Absorption: No matter where you are, the season, or time of day, you can maximize sunlight absorption. Easily switch between 30°, 40°, 50°, or 80° angles.
- IP67 Weatherproof Protection: Keep charging even on challenging adventures with IP67 weatherproof protection. You’ll withstand heavy rain, dust storms, and extreme temperatures.
- Compact with Massive Power: It’s portable power that moves as freely as you. Give your devices 300W (600W Surge) and 288Wh. Fast charge with 140W two-way USB-C ports.
- 8 Device Charging Ports: Power all your tech with versatile ports, including 3× AC (300W), 1× car socket (120W), 2× USB-C (140W), 1× USB-C (15W), and 1× USB-A (12W).
- Travel-Friendly Design: Attach the strap (sold separately) or simply carry this power station. It’s 15% smaller than similar designs and perfect for spontaneous adventures.
- Solar-Powered Escapes: When your journey needs endless charging, do so seamlessly and sustainably with a 60W solar panel. This power station is not compatible with Anker SOLIX PS30 (or other 5V~3A USB-C panels), PS200, PS400.
- Your Choice of Recharging: Recharge to 80% in just 50 minutes with a wall outlet, or use solar panels, your car, or the PD 3.1 USB-C port. Stay charged, no matter where you are.
- SOLAR POWERED GENERATOR WITH PANELS INCLUDED: Apowking portable solar panels 40W performances better even under the condition of insufficient light thanks to its 24% high conversion efficiency by monocrystalline solar cell. with 10*DC Connectors, this solar panel kit is compatible with most portable solar powered generator on the market.
- PORTABLE POWER STATION WITH ENHANCED CAPACITY: Experience the convenience with our 300W portable power station. Designed with a sleek and compact form factor measuring 8.5 x 6.7 x 4.1 inches and weighing a mere 5 lbs, this battery station is your perfect companion for home, camping, and beyond. Equipped with an upgraded 220Wh/60000mAh lithium-ion battery pack, powerful enough to charge up to 7 devices simultaneously.
- SOLAR POWERED GENERATOR WITH 7 OUTPUTS: This portable solar generator solar power bank features with 7 outlets. 2x110V AC outlet Pure Sine Wave to charge appliances within 300W(600W Peak),3 USB ports (5V/3.1A Max), 1 USB port (5V/3A, 9V/2A), and 1 DC vehicle output port (9-12.6V, 10A max), this portable solar power bank compatible with a wide range of devices. Enjoy simultaneous charging without any disruptive fan noise, ensuring a serene and comfortable environment wherever you are
- BIGGER LED, BRIGHTER LIGHT: The solar powered generators power station 300W with solar panel designed with premium quality LED light source on the whole back with bigger Led light, Big Round LED hlight with brighter lighting source, offering you a full sense of security in a dark night indoors and outdoors.
- SECURED SOLAR GENERATOR: Our solar generator power station power bank for camping boasts an advanced BMS that guarantees voltage control, optimal temperature regulation, and top-tier safety features. Silent cooling vents maintain a secure operating temperature, while built-in protections against short-circuits and overpower scenarios, offering unparalleled peace of mind. Also, the Pure Sine Wave AC inverter can better protect your sensitive devices, preserving battery life and ensuring user/device safety.
Choosing Between a Solar Generator and a Gas Generator:
When it comes to selecting a power generator, whether it’s for backup power, outdoor activities, or off-grid living, you’ll often have two primary options: a solar generator and a gas generator. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and your choice should be based on several key factors:
1. Environmental Impact:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators are environmentally friendly as they harness energy from the sun, a renewable resource. They produce no greenhouse gas emissions, noise, or air pollution during operation.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators, on the other hand, run on gasoline or propane, emitting small amounts of carbon dioxide. They sometimes can contribute to air and noise pollution.
2. Fuel Availability:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators rely on sunlight, making them suitable for locations with ample sunshine. They are particularly ideal for sunny regions and off-grid setups.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators require a steady supply of fuel (gasoline, propane, or natural gas). Access to fuel can be challenging during emergencies or in remote areas.
3. Noise Level:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators are virtually silent during operation since they have no moving parts. This makes them suitable for quiet environments, camping, and residential areas.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators can be noisy due to their internal combustion engines. This noise can be a concern in quiet settings or neighborhoods.
4. Maintenance and Longevity:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators have minimal maintenance requirements. Solar panels can last for 25 years or more, and other components have a long lifespan with little wear and tear.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators require regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and fuel stabilization. They also have a finite lifespan and can experience mechanical failures.
5. Portability:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators come in portable options, making them suitable for outdoor activities and camping. However, their portability may be limited by the weight and size of the solar panels and batteries.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators are available in portable and stationary versions. Portable gas generators are typically heavier and noisier than their solar counterparts.
6. Cost Considerations:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators have higher upfront costs due to the purchase of solar panels and batteries. However, they have lower operating costs since sunlight is free.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators generally have lower upfront costs but higher operating costs due to fuel expenses. Additionally, the price of fossil fuels can be volatile.
7. Backup Power Needs:
- Solar Generator: Solar generators are suitable for providing backup power to essential devices and appliances during short-term power outages. Their capacity may be limited by the size of the solar array and battery storage.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators can provide higher power output and longer runtime, making them suitable for extended power outages and running multiple appliances simultaneously.
8. Location and Grid Connectivity:
- Solar Generator: If you live in an area with unreliable grid power or want to go off-grid, a solar generator can be an excellent choice for sustainable energy independence.
- Gas Generator: Gas generators are typically used as backup power sources in areas with frequent power outages or where grid power is essential.
In summary, the choice between a solar generator and a gas generator should be based on your specific requirements, environmental considerations, and location. Solar generators are more environmentally friendly and require less maintenance but have limitations in terms of power output. Gas generators are versatile and can provide higher power levels but come with maintenance drawbacks. Assess your priorities and circumstances to determine which generator type best suits your needs.
Blair Witkowski is an avid watch nut, loves pocket knives and flashlights, and when he is not trying to be a good dad to his nine kids, you will find him running or posting pics on Instagram. Besides writing articles for Tech Writer EDC he is also the founder of Lowcountry Style & Living. In addition to writing, he is focused on improving his client’s websites for his other passion, Search Engine Optimization. His wife Jennifer and he live in coastal South Carolina.