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.
- 🌍【Portable Generator with 60W Solar Panel Included】with a 280Wh superior lithium-ion battery pack, ZeroKor 300W power stations are powerful enough to charge smartphone,tablets,laptops,headphones or other outdoor Small Camping supplies (Tips:Using electrical appliances over 300W may damage the portable generator, especially some devices that are prone to heat or built-in air compressor such as coffee maker,Hair dryer, water pump etc )
- 🌍【Multiple Charging outlets for camping gear with SOS Flashlight】With 2* 110V/300W Max AC outlets(pure sine wave ) , 1* DC port (9V-12.6V/10A max ), 3* 5V/3A MAX USB ports, 1*quick charge USB port (5V/3A 9V/2A Max), Flashlight with reading mode and SOS mode for your outdoor RV Adventures
- 🌍【Multiple Charging Optional, Solar Panel 60W Included】ZeroKor portable laptop charger power bank can be recharged by wall AC outlet, DC5521 Solar Panel (Portable Power Station built-in MPPT), 12V Carport. Take the portable generator with you on-the-go and never worry about power shortage,the portable AC outlet design makes it more suitable for Tent camping OFF-Grid life
- 🌍【Configure Multiple Protection Mechanisms】Built in BMS, ZeroKor portable power station features short circuit protection, over-current protection, over-voltage protection, overload protection and overheating protection. The built-in cooling fan system will automatically start and stop according to the portable battery pack internal temperature during use
- 🌍【HIGH CONVERSION EFFICIENCY】ZeroKor solar panels 60W monocrystalline solar cell have a high conversion efficiency of 20.5%, and its performance is better than that of polycrystalline solar panels under the condition of insufficient light
- Power on the Go: Weighing at 5KG only, the Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station with a 40W solar panel is lightweight to carry, with total weight equivalent to 2 Macbooks. It’s ideal for camping, road-trips, and more. It is also easy to operate with a one-button start, and convenient to set up and store with the pad-sized foldable solar panel.
- All-round Safety: By adopting advanced lithium technology, the Explorer 300 Plus is highly temperature resistant – cells operate efficiently and safely, even at 45℃. Max safety is achieved, featuring 52 protective mechanisms, 12 BMS algorithms, and 4 types of physical protection.
- Diverse & Fast Charging: Charge from the sun as fast as possible. Only 4 hours is taken for the solar generator to become fully charged via convenient connection to a SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel. Additionally, the dual PD USB-C ports (1*100W input&output and 1*15W output) enable quick charging for your multiple devices simultaneously.
- Long-lasting Lifespan: Thanks to Jackery’s innovative ChargeShield technology, the battery life of the Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station is boosted by 50%. Durable LFP (LiFePO4) batteries, coupled with BMS protections ensures up to 10 years of use even when recharged every 3 days, making it an excellent investment for off-grid living.
- Smart App Control: Easily manage your Explorer 300 Plus Solar Generator via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth – you can fully monitor the remaining battery level and more on the App. Also, multiple advanced settings can be customized to meet individual needs, while ensuring round-the-clock energy control.
- SPEED UP YOUR RECHARGEABILITY: It takes only 2 hours to recharge 80% battery of the power station through the wall outlet and 60W PD USB-C port simultaneously. You can also recharge your power station with an AC adapator when at home, through the car outlet during a road trip or simply use a Jackery SolarSaga 100.
- SAFE & STEADY POWER SUPPLY: Armed with a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack, the Explorer 300 features 2 Pure Sine Wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W power. The portable power station weighs only 7.1 pounds. You can simply rest assured in outdoor off-grid activities.
- POWER YOUR EXPECTATIONS: Featuring 2* AC outlet, 1* PD 60W USB-C port (input/output supported) , 1* fast charge 3.0 port, 1*USB-A port and 1* DC car port, the power station can recharge itself and charge (up to) 6 devices (e.g.Drones, Macbook, Cameras, etc.) at the same time to satisfy your outdoor needs.
- GREEN POWER SUPPLY: The power station is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel. The integrated MPPT controller enables the solar generator set to operate at its max power point, so that it speeds up the battery recharge, making them ideal portable power kits for tent camping, overland journey and etc.
- WHAT YOU GET: 1* Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station , 1*AC adapter, 1* car charger cable, 1* user guide
- EXCELLENT COMBINATION: The combination of MARBERO solar panel 21W and MARBERO power station M82 is ideal for overnight stays outdoors or long periods of time away from home where charging is not possible. The large capacity makes them ideal portable power kits for tent camping, road trip and etc.
- COMPLEMENTARY BACKUP POWER: You can use solar panels to charge power supply and other devices such as mobile phones during the day, and then use a full power supply to provide power when there is no sunlight, such as on stormy days or at night.
- UNINTERRUPTED POWER: No longer have to worry about losing power in your home or not being able to complete important work in the event of a power outage. Everything from lights and mini-fridges in heavily used rooms to CPAP, laptops, cell phones, and more will never fail.
- ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY: Solar energy is a natural and powerful “electricity supply bureau”, and you can get electricity from free solar energy. Solar generators are a new energy technology. When in use, the solar generator emits almost no harmful substances which powered by solar energy, providing green and sustainable energy for living.
- WHAT YOU GET：Portable power station with 88Wh capacity and a 21W portable solar panel. You can get power from the sun anywhere. No more worry about power shortage, keep your outdoors always pumped!
- Made for the Outdoor. Replace your outdoor generator with a solar generator. Includes a 220W Bifacial solar panel to capture up to 25% more energy. Charge your DELTA 2 even faster with green energy.
- Built to Last 6x Longer. Its LFP battery chemistry makes for a portable power station with a 3000+ cycle life. Enough for years on end of use. With a sophisticated BMS, you can go easy knowing its an auto-regulating portable battery to keep you safe.
- Power Almost Anything. Solar powered generator have come a long way. Power all your appliances with 1800W output, that’s on par with outdoor generators without the fumes or noise. With 15 outlets and its huge output, you can power 90% of your appliances.
- Expandable Capacity from 1-3kWh. With the standalone portable power station sporting 1kWh, you can add on extra batteries to reach up to 3kWh. Ideal for camping, RVs or home backup power.
- What you Get. DELTA 2 Power station, 220W Solar panel, Adjustable kickstand case, AC charging cable, Car charging cable, Solar charging cable, DC5521 to DC5525 cable, User manual, and an exclusive 5 year warranty.
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.
