Jackery Solar Generator 1000. Largest solar generator

Jackery Solar Generator 1000

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• 1002Wh capacity, 1000W (2000W peak) Output
• Multiple Output Ports
• Pure sine wave AC outlets
• Portable and compact
• Green, Quiet, Easy to Use

Fast Delivery

2 1 Years Warranty

30-Day Money back

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 is a solar solution that combines Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station with SolarSaga 100W solar panels. It converts sun energy captured by SolarSaga 100W solar panels into electrical power and then stores it in the Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station for later use. This solar generator is a reliable and clean power source for campers, RVs, or as an emergency backup if your power goes out.

To power with Explorer 1000 (1002Wh Capacity) Please enter the wattage of the appliance (not exceeding 1002W)

Safe BMS to Fully Protect You

The industry-leading BMS (Battery Management System) provides 12 layers of protection against short circuits, overvoltages, and more. The pure sine wave inverter delivers stable power to safeguard your appliances. Additionally, with the drop-proof feature, take the solar power station with your anywhere!

Safe BMS to Fully Protect You

The industry-leading BMS (Battery Management System) provides 12 layers of protection against short circuits, overvoltages, and more. The pure sine wave inverter delivers stable power to safeguard your appliances. Additionally, with the drop-proof feature, take the solar power station with your anywhere!

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need

0 Hrs Recharging Time

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Choose One Type of Solar Panel

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Sustainable Energy Saving

Product Details

Note: 1. Solar panel types and quantity depends on your purchase.

Solar recharging time varies from a different locations, temperatures, weather, etc. The actual time may be extra.

During solar recharging, keep your portable power station away from heat and direct sunlight to extend its life span.

Store in a dry and cool place, avoid contact with corrosive substances and keep away from fire and heat sources. Avoid storing with sharp objects at the same time.

FAQ

Q: I purchased two Jackery items (Explorer 1000Saga 100W), why did I just receive one package? Where is my stuff?

Your purchase order (including purchases on Solar Generator Bundles) will be shipped separately if the order contains more than one item. This shipping rule is additionally applicable for Amazon orders.2. You can only find one tracking number in your order even if the order contains more than one package. We are pleased to email you with all tracking numbers when requested.3. Please feel free to contact us through this email address: hello@Jackery.com or via Amazon.

Q: What is the maximum watts of solar panels can be used to charge Explorer 1000? Also how long will it take to recharge from a fully discharge batery?

The maximum input wattage of Explorer 1000 is 200w(12~30V,7.5~8.33A ). As for recharging time, it depends on which panel you are using and weather conditions, for example, the Explorer 1000 can be quickly recharged within 8 hours by connecting two SolarSaga 100W solar panels together with an adapter cable. If connecting only one single panel, the approximate recharging time is 17 hours. Recharging time may varies from different location, temperature, weather etc, the actual time may be different.

Q: What devices can Explorer 1000 power?

Please note that the AC output ports can only charge/power devices that operate at less than 1000-Watts, besides, the whole wattage should be under 1000 watts as well. Once exceeding, the Explorer 1000 will shut off automatically. Please refer to your device specification before purchase

Q: How to know the working times for my device?

Working time = 1002Wh 0.85 / operating wattage of your deviceFor reference, assuming power consumption of your device is 60W (might be a box fan), working time will be 1002Wh0.85/60w=14.2hrs (rough calculated).Please note: actual power consumption varies from different usages, please consult Jackery for better purchase decision.

Q: Is the solar panel waterproof?

The Saga 100W is not waterproof. To maximize the lifespan of the module,Please don’t make it get wet.

Q: Why the solar can not produce 100W power when charging to Explorer 1000 power station?

As you know. the solar panels are affected by many factors, such as the intensity of the light and the angle of the panel put on the ground. 100W is tested in an ideal laboratory. However, the intensity of the light constantly changes. In addition, the angle of the light illuminating the solar panel also changes with the rotation of the sun. Please try test your solar panel under the full sunlight to see, and make sure there is no shadow cast on the panel.

Q: How to clean the solar panel surface?

We mentioned this point in the manual. Please use a soft cloth to remove the dust and dirt on the surface. Use a damp cloth to wipe the surface of the solar module to remove any remaining dust or dirt. Any guano or other adhesive should be removed as soon as possible from the solar surface to avoid a reduction in performance.

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The 7 Best Solar-Powered Generators of 2023

Heidi Wachter was a senior editor at Experience Life magazine for 10 years. She has written for publications like Experience Life, Shondaland, and betterpet.

Our top pick is the Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station. However, if you want a smaller, less expensive option, consider the Jackery Explorer 500W.

It’s always good to have a backup in life, especially when the power goes out. Gas-powered generators can do the trick, but they’re loud, emit smelly fumes, and require a place for storing gasoline safely. They also contribute to climate change.

Solar generators, on the other hand, are clean, easy to use, don’t require fossil fuels, and are becoming more and more affordable as solar technology improves. They can be particularly useful in emergency situations where other fuel supplies are cut off or difficult to access. Solar generators typically capture the sun’s energy via stationary or portable solar panels that are sold separately, convert it into electrical power, and store it in a battery for later use.

What’s the best generator for you? First, estimate how much power you need to run appliances, laptops, and televisions in your home should a power outage occur or for whatever you’ll need to power up while you’re camping, living off the grid, or traveling in an RV.

Once you know how many watts you’ll need; consider the other features you want such as USB charging ports and rechargeable batteries. You can avoid blowing your budget by selecting a generator with features that make the unit more efficient rather than more expensive.

We researched the market to recommend the best generators that are compatible with solar panels.

Best Overall

Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station

Need to power your laptop, phone, power drill, coffee maker, and refrigerator all at once? The Goal Zero Yeti 1500x is a high-capacity power station that supplies electricity with the touch of a button or the Yeti 3.0 app. Weighing in at 43 pounds, it’s a solar option for those living the van life or to provide back-up energy when power lines go down.

The lithium battery supplies 1500-watt hours, so you can charge your phone a hundred times or run a refrigerator for up to a day. Its industry-leading 2000-watt AC inverter is one of the most powerful on the market, making it our top overall pick. The integrated MPPT charge controller increases efficiency by 30% when recharged with a compatible Goal Zero solar panel. Everything is backed by a two year warranty.

Price at time of publish: 1,800

Output: 2000 watts | Weight: 43 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 14 x 14 inches | Output Ports: 2 USB-A ports, 1 18 watt USB-C, 1 60 watt USB-C PP, 1 6mm port, 1 12 Volt (regulated), 1 12 volt HPP, 2 120 Volt AC inverters

Best Portable

Jackery Explorer 500 Solar Portable Generator

Weighing in at a relatively light 13.3 pounds, the compact, durable, and affordable Jackery Explorer 500 lets you take solar-powered electricity along on every adventure. The 500-watt inverter provides enough juice for charging multiple devices in any either of the AC or DC ports or one of the three USB ports.

It comes with a car charging cable and an AC adaptor. Like many of the solar generators in the Jackery family, the unit can be recharged from an AC wall outlet or with a Jackery SolarSaga solar panel (sold separately). The 518-watt rechargeable battery will need replacing after about 500 uses, but that’s after a lot of camping trips.

Price at time of publish: 500

Output: 500 Watts | Weight: 13.3 pounds | Dimensions: 11.8 x 7.6 x 9.5 inches | Output Ports: 1 AC outlet (110V 500W 1000W Peak), 3 USB ports, 2 DC ports, 1 car port

Best for Emergencies

ITEHIL LiFePO4 500W 500Wh Solar Generator

If you’re looking for source of backup power that’s cleaner than a diesel generator, the ITEHIL power station is an excellent option. With high-speed charging, you can get your devices back up and running when the power goes out, as well as a built-in light. You can charge it via solar panels (ITEHIL separately sells panels that fold into a suit-case style envelope), a car charger, or a wall plug. There are both U.S. and international AC plug versions of the device.

At nearly 19 pounds, it’s heavier than our Best Portable pick, but is still light enough to be moved around fairly easily, and has built-in handles. Our tester notes that it’s not big enough to power most full-size refrigerators, but could power a small electric cooler. It has an intuitive display that shows how much battery capacity is remaining.

“It seems to be well-designed for safety, and includes warnings like ‘do not stick fingers directly into the power port.’” ~ Lloyd Alter, Treehugger Design Editor

Price at time of publish: 500

Output: 500 Watts | Weight: 18.74 pounds | Dimensions: 14.17 x 13 x 13.4 inches | Output Ports: 2 AC outlets (100-120V 500W), 2 USB-A ports, 1 QC USD-A Poert, 1 Type C, 1 DC ports, 1 car port

Best Budget

Jackery Explorer 160 Portable Power Station

While many of the budget generators still cost over 200, this affordable option from Jackery comes in at under 150 and has a two-year warranty. It’s also one of the lightest option on the market at just under 4 pounds, making it another great pick for camping or even backpacking.

It can be charged using a solar panel, wall outlet, car outlet or electric generator. It’s great for charging your phone or camera, or running small appliances like a fan or laptop. It has a surge capacity of 150 watts, but you should avoid using it with any device that has a 100 watt or higher rating.

Price at time of publish: 150

Output: 100 watts | Weight: 3.97 pounds | Dimensions: 7.4 x 4.5 x 6.7 inches | Output Ports: 1 100 watt AC outlet, 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A

Best High Capacity

Bluetti AC200P 2000WH/2000W Portable Power Station

With just as many watts as our Best Overall pick, the Bluetti 2000W Portable Power Station can be charged five different ways and has 17 different output ports, each of which is covered by a high-quality dust cap. You can charge it using solar panels (not included), a via a wall outlet, car plug, using a generator, or lead acid battery.

You can hook up a number of smaller devices, at the same time, like a laptop, camera charger and several phones. Or you can use it as back-up power for larger appliances—according to the manufacturer, you can power an 800 watt wall refrigerator with this power station for over two hours.

A nice feature is the LED touch screen, which can tell you how much energy you’re drawing down and how much battery charge is remaining. You can also set it to an Eco mode, which will shut the device down if it senses you’re not using it after several hours. It has rubberized feet, so the unit won’t slip around on smooth surfaces. It’s also quite heavy so it’s not ideal for camping situations where you’d need to carry it, but it is compact enough to fit into a car trunk.

Price at time of publish: 1,599

Output: 2000 watts | Weight: 60.6 pounds | Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches | Output Ports: 6 110 Volt AC outlets, 1 DC 12 Volt/10A, 1 DC 12 Volt/25A, 2 DC 12 Volt/3A outlets, 4 USB-A ports, 1 USC-C port, 2 wireless charging ports

Best for Home

Point Zero Energy Titan Solar Generator

True to its name, the Titan is packed with power. Its 3000-watt inverter has enormous output capacity for powering up household appliances like refrigerators and portable AC units with ease. Are you in heavy Cloud cover? No problem. The Titan includes a stackable battery bank, which can be combined with additional batteries (sold separately). You can recharge the generator via solar panels, an AC outlet, or a DC car charger.

In addition to extra batteries, you can also add on USB adaptors or a car charger. THE MPPT charge controllers allow it to reach full battery capacity in about four hours making the Titan a versatile, efficient, and reliable backup plan.

Price at time of publish: 2,716

Output: 3000 watts | Weight: 67 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 12 inches | Output Ports: 6 AC outlets, 4 DC 12 Volt outlets, 1 NEMA TT-30

Also Great

MAXOAK Bluetti Portable Power Station

During extreme weather events, generators like the ones on this list can sell out quickly. So, if other options aren’t available, there’s a lot we like about this one. The Bluetti stores plenty of power at an affordable price. It’s 1500-watt-hour lithium-ion battery is quick-charging and ample for powering up most home appliances during a blackout.

While it serves as a great home power supply during an emergency, the MaxOak Bluetti is also portable enough take along on fishing or a road trip. It includes two AC ports and five USB outlets and a 12-volt DC outlet that can handle a mini-fridge. There’s also a nifty LCD display to help you track the generator’s performance.

Output: 1000 watts | Weight: 37.9 pounds | Dimensions: 14.6 x 6.5 x 14.4 inches | Output Ports: 2 110 Volt AC outlets, 1 12 Volt regulated DC, 45 watt USB-C, 4 USB-A ports

If you’re looking for something high powered to help you weather a storm, the Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station is our top choice. If you need something portable for a camping trip, then the Jackery 500W might be your best new travel buddy.

What To Look for in a Solar Generator

When deciding what solar powered generator is right for you, consider which types of appliances, tools, and devices you need to charge and how often you’ll be without a traditional power source. Here are some other tips to help guide your decision-making.

Solar Panels

There are three common types of solar panels—monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline solar cells, and thin film, or amorphous crystal panels. They each offer different efficiency levels. Monocrystalline panels are most common and slightly more efficient than polycrystalline cells. Thin film panels are a newer technology and are light, flexible, durable, and more affordable than the others, but about half as efficient as the other types. Sometimes they’re included with the generator and sometimes they’re sold separately.

Battery Capacity and Power Rating

Solar generators run on stored energy so you’ll want to consider the battery’s capacity (the total amount of electricity stored). You’ll also want to know the power rating (how much power is delivered at a time). A battery with a high capacity, but low power rating typically delivers less electricity for a longer period of time.

Battery Type

Lead-acid and lithium-ion are the most common options. Lead acid are used to power things like automobiles, while lithium-ion options are often used to run power tools. They’re increasingly used in solar-powered generators because they’re lightweight. While they tend to be more expensive than lead-acid varieties, they typically have a longer lifespan which saves money on replacement batteries and keeps them out of landfills.

Charge Controllers

In order to regulate the current between the solar panels and the battery, the simplest controllers cut the power when maximum voltage is reached. This isn’t as efficient as models that use three- power point tracking (MPPT).

Inverter

Converting direct current (DC) from solar panels to alternating current (AC), inverters carry a watt rating to show the maximum output of power they can generate. Pure sine wave inverters are more expensive, but more efficient. But they’re not necessarily a cost-effective option if you only plan on using the generator occasionally.

Weight

Will you be using your solar generator in your home or on the go? For portability, look for units that are easier to carry and maneuver, and that house parts in a sturdy box rather than as separate pieces.

Other Features

Note the presence of multiple USB ports and AC outlets, replaceable batteries, and LED panels that help you monitor your system when it’s dark. Finally, consider the length of a unit’s warranty, or any other manufacturer grantees.

When determining the size of generator, you’ll want to look at output measured in watts, as well as storage capacity measured in watt hours (Wh). As a general rule of thumb, generators with under 1000 Wh can keep electronics charged, and are great for camping. To power many devices in your home for longer, you’ll want a large generator with around 1500 Wh capacity.

If you want to keep those devices charging and in use for five hours:

So, in this case you’d want a generator with at least 85 watts of output and 425 Wh of capacity. When in doubt, round up. For another way to calculate your needs, you may find this explainer from the manufacturer Jackery helpful.

Keep in mind that most solar generators do not connect to your home’s electrical panel, so they won’t power hard-wired devices like your hot water heater or ceiling lights; for that type of power you’ll want to consider a home battery system.

Solar generators should last at least 20 to 25 years. Many manufacturers offer warranties that cover repairs and replacements should anything malfunction within the first few years of use.

Most high-capacity solar generators cost between 1000 and 2000. Generally speaking, larger generators cost more than smaller, portable devices. The generators on the list range from between 140 and 3,400 without taking into account sales or discounts.

Why Trust Treehugger?

Treehugger is committed to helping our readers transition away from fossil fuels, and we deeply researched the market to find the best generators compatible with solar panels.

A travel and adventure writer for many years, author Heidi Wachter knows how handy the sun’s rays can be for keeping her phone and camera charged.

Maggie Badore is an environmental reporter and editor based in New York City. She started at Treehugger in 2013 and is now the Associate Editorial Director.

Portable solar generators are a quiet, green solution to powering up during electrical outages or off-grid excursions. The best generators vary in size, power, and battery storage capacity.

By Donna Smith | Updated Mar 2, 2023 5:36 PM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Harnessing the sun to create backup power is an alternative to fuel-guzzling gas generators or dual fuel generators. The best solar-powered generators are easy to transport, safe to use indoors and outdoors, and nearly silent when in operation.

Though gas generators have more power, the cost of fuel is expensive and not always accessible. Instead of using gas, diesel, or propane, a solar generator gathers energy from the sun and stores it in a high-capacity battery. Read on to learn about some of the best solar generators on the market for a comfortable night at home or your next travel adventure.

• BEST OVERALL:Jackery 1002Wh Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Aimtom 155Wh PowerPal X Power Station
• BEST HIGH-CAPACITY:Maxoak Bluetti 1500Wh EB150 Portable Power Station
• BEST FOR SMALL HOMES:Rainier 155Wh R150i Portable Power Station
• BEST FOR LARGE HOMES:Ecoflow 1260Wh Delta Portable Power Station
• BEST FOR CABINS OUTDOORS:Maxoak Bluetti AC200P Solar Generator With Panels

Before You Buy a Solar Generator

The portability of the best solar-powered generators makes them ideal for traveling, camping, and outdoor events because they are easy to pack, store, and move. The units are also a solid backup source for when emergencies occur at home due to severe weather or blackouts.

While solar generators are a clean energy source, they do have limitations because of a low-wattage capacity and slow recharging. The solar backup generator power they produce can keep the lights on and run portable televisions and electronic devices like smartphones and laptops for hours. However, they don’t harness enough power to run all of the large appliances in a residence at one time or for an extended period.

How We Tested the Best Solar Generators

We researched the most sought-after solar generators in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their type, power output, weight, ports, and other special features included by select brands.

While searching for the best solar generators available, the portable options proved the most popular among users for their ample power output and versatility. While not as popular, the backup generators available provide enough power for large appliances and are handy in a power outage. No matter the type, the above generators range from 115 watt-hours (Wh) to 2000Wh of power based on power needs.

Select models are lightweight enough to take on camping trips while others may be too heavy to transport, but all of the generators come with ample outlets including USB, alternating-current (AC), direct-current (DC), car, and wall ports. Plus, these solar-powered generators can be charged quickly via wall outlet, car charging cord, or via solar power. While the majority of these options do not include solar panels, many have LCD or touch screens, carrying handles, sine wave inverters, or maximum power point tracker (MPPT) technology.

Our Top Picks

Around the world, the demand for solar energy continues to grow. Now is the time to think about taking steps to secure access to a renewable energy source for recreation and emergency preparedness. The following products represent some of the best solar generators manufactured by reputable brands in terms of size, power, battery capacity, and special features.

Jackery 1002Wh Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station

The Jackery portable solar generator provides a green power solution for outdoor activities and emergency preparedness. The battery delivers a higher wattage of 1,000 watts (W), with a peak of 2,000W. It features a lithium battery capacity of 1,002Wh in addition to three standard pure sine wave AC outlets for extra capacity to power multiple AC appliances at the same time.

The Jackery solar generator also includes MPPT technology for faster solar recharging rates. Users can recharge the generator with solar panels, a wall or car outlet, or another generator. Recharging time is about 17 hours with a single solar panel and 8 hours with two solar panels but varies depending on location, temperature, and weather.

This solar-power generator provides enough power supply for appliances, medical devices, computers, security systems, and lights. Recreation vehicle (RV) travelers can expect no extra setup to power mini-fridges, portable coffee makers, pellet smokers, and more. Including the handle, the generator measures 13.1 inches long by 9.2 inches wide by 11.1 inches deep and weighs 22.04 pounds. It is fully equipped with an AC adapter, car charger cable, SolarSaga parallel adapter cable, and a user guide. Solar panels are sold separately.

Product Specs

• Type: Portable
• Wattage: 1,002Wh; 1,000W (up to 2,000W surge power)
• Ports included: 3 AC ports, car-charger port, SolarSaga parallel adapter port
• Has multiple output ports, including 2 USB-C, 2 USB, and 1 DC car port
• Can be charged through solar power, wall or car outlets, or a generator
• Takes 8 to 17 hours to charge fully, depending on number of panels connected
• Safe to use with appliances, medical devices, computers, security systems, and lights
• Some users report difficulty charging some electronic devices using this product
• Pricey; solar panels not included and must be purchased separately

Get the Jackery solar generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Jackery.

Aimtom 155Wh PowerPal X Power Station

Its attached ergonomic handle and lightweight nature support the portability of this solar generator by Aimtom. However, at just 3.48 pounds and measuring 7.67 inches long by 6.73 inches wide by 3.54 inches deep, this small solar generator doesn’t sacrifice power, given the generator’s 155Wh lithium-ion battery storage capacity that provides 100W with a maximum of 180W.

A built-in Battery Management System keeps electronics safe from damage while charging the generator and also allows users to charge or power multiple small electrical items at the same time. This portable solar generator can power items like lights, laptops, cell phones, tablets, drones, coolers, fans, and CPAP machines.

Recharge the generator via a wall outlet, car port, or a solar panel (not included), noting that the recharging time depends on location, time, and weather. It also comes equipped with a 12V DC cigarette lighter adapter, car charging adapter, user manual, and a wall outlet charging power adapter.

Product Specs

• Type: Portable
• Wattage: 155Wh
• Ports included: 110V AC outlet, 3 USB ports, and 3 12V DC outputs
• Ergonomic handle and nature support, with built-in Battery Management System
• Can be charged with solar power, a wall outlet, or a car port
• Cigarette lighter, wall, and car-charging adapter are all included

Get the Aimtom solar generator at Amazon or Aimtom.

Maxoak Bluetti 1500Wh EB150 Portable Power Station

Weighing 37.9 pounds, the Maxoak Bluetti EB150 portable solar generator has a lithium-ion battery capacity of 1,500Wh with a 1,000W maximum. The massive power output of this generator makes it an indispensable green and clean energy source for home use, camping, boating, and off-grid traveling. Users can rely on it to charge higher power devices like microwaves, hair dryers, and blenders.

Recharge this portable solar generator in around 8 hours with a wall outlet and around 5 to 10 hours with a solar panel (sold separately). It measures approximately 14.6 inches long by 6.5 inches wide by 14.4 inches deep and provides four USB outputs, two AC outlets, a car port, and carrying handle. It also includes an AC wall charger, PV solar charging cable, and user manual.

Product Specs

• Type: Portable
• Wattage: 1,500Wh; 1,000W
• Ports included: USB port, 2 AC output ports, and 12V car port
• Green energy source that’s great for those who want an eco-friendly option
• Suitable for use with large appliances, including those for the kitchen, and other household electronics
• Has a built-in carrying handle; is suitable for outdoor use
• Some users say the unit abruptly stops registering wattage usage
• Intended for light use; unit may stop working if overused

Get the Maxoak Bluetti EB150 solar generator at Amazon or Maxoak.

Rainier 155Wh R150i Portable Power Station

Rainier’s R150i is a great solar generator for household use, able to power small appliances, laptops, power tools, tablets and smartphones, drones, cameras, lights, speakers, and headlamps. Measuring approximately 10 inches long by 6 inches wide by 4 inches deep and weighing 3.75 pounds, it’s lightweight and portable, with a built-in carrying handle and flashlight.

Since this battery generator for home use is a clean energy source, buyers won’t need to fill it with gas, propane, or diesel. This means they can expect no noise or fumes in smaller residences. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery and has a 155Wh capacity.

The control panel for the generator contains a traditional household outlet and three USB ports, combined with three 5.5 millimeter 12V outputs. The solar generator includes both a wall outlet and car charger and provides solar-panel capability, though compatible panels are sold separately. Recharging time varies depending on location, temperature, and weather.

Product Specs

• Type: Portable
• Wattage: 155Wh
• Ports included: 3 DC ports, 1 wall port, and 3 USB ports
• Suitable for small appliances and electronic devices, including smartphones, drones, GoPros, cameras, and speakers
• Lightweight and compact; portability makes it a great choice for outdoor use
• Affordable price point compared to other similar portable power stations
• Solar panels not included and must be purchased separately; not suitable for large appliances Charging time varies depending on environmental conditions and device type

Get the Rainier solar generator at Amazon.

Ecoflow 1260Wh Delta Portable Power Station

The Delta solar portable generator from Ecoflow features a 1,260Wh lithium-battery capacity and 1,800W pure sine wave AC power (with a surge to 3,300W), which uses six AC outlets to power up to 13 devices simultaneously. It creates enough energy to keep lights, televisions, freezers, toasters, coffee makers, hair dryers, electric frying pans, laptops, and medical machines running for hours. If users live in a large home and the electricity goes out, their appliances and devices should remain functional.

The generator uses X-Stream Fast Charge technology to offer an accelerated recharge rate. Recharge to 80 percent power in just 1 hour and a full charge in around 90 minutes by plugging it into a wall outlet or another generator. Additional recharge times are 4 to 8 hours via a solar panel or 13.5 hours via a 12/24-volt car port. While the solar panels aren’t included, the generator is compatible with most solar panels on the market.

Three types of charging cables (AC plug, car charging cable, and solar panel cable), a bag, and a user guide are part of this solar generator package. The generator measures about 15.7 inches long by 8.3 inches wide by 10.6 inches deep and weighs 30.9 pounds. A handle helps with transporting.

Product Specs

• Type: Backup generator
• Wattage: 1,260Wh; 1,800W (up to 3,300W surge power)
• Ports included: 6 AC ports, 4 USB ports, 2 USB-C ports, and a car port
• Extremely versatile product; can power up to 13 devices simultaneously
• X-Stream Fast Charge technology ensures accelerated device power-up
• Carrying bag and handle included; suitable for portability and maneuvering

Get the Ecoflow solar generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ecoflow.

Maxoak Bluetti AC200P Solar Generator With Panels

A long-term trip requires ample power supply, durability, and reliability, which is why the Maxoak Bluetti AC200P solar generator is our top pick for camping and the outdoors. With its lead-acid battery, it offers 2,000W of power with a 4,800W surge and has a 2,000Wh capacity for ample power provided for charging small appliances, phones, and power tools. For ease of use, this model also has a built-in touch screen.

Included with this generator is a user manual, an AC adapter and six AC ports, an MC4 solar charging cable, car charging cable, an aviation plug, two USB ports, a DC port, and built-in carrying handle. Plus, this option comes with a 1,200W scratch-proof foldable solar panel made of monocrystalline silicon cells, making this option 5 percent more efficient than comparable solar panels. These solar panels are also easy to transport and set up with their 9.8-pound weight and built-in kickstand.

With the advantage of having the panels included with purchase, this set is ready to use out of the box. Charging times depend upon environmental conditions, and the generator weighs a hefty 60.6 pounds.

Product Specs

• Type: Portable
• Wattage: 2,000Wh; 2,000W (up to 4,800W surge power)
• Ports included: 6 AC ports, 1 car charging port, 2 USB ports, 1 DC port, and 1 aviation port
• Scratchproof and lightweight solar panel included along with a built-in kickstand
• Quick charging times; suitable those those who need to recharge devices while on the go
• Some users report that the solar panels randomly stop charging the unit
• Item may fail to recognize its solar panels and not recharge the battery

Get the Maxoak Bluetti AC200P solar generator at Amazon or Maxoak (without panels).

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Solar Generator

While shoppers search for the best solar-powered generators available for home or travel, they will want to consider the intended use. How and where they plan on using a solar generator will determine the size, power, and capacity of the unit they’ll need.

Purpose and User Activity

The reasons for purchasing a solar-power generator may be different for everyone, so it’s important for shoppers to zero in on their purpose for purchasing a solar generator and the activities they hope to accomplish with it. Solar generators are useful for anyone who travels and stays in remote places that are off-grid. Conversely, shoppers may simply desire a reliable backup source of energy for their home to prepare for the occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster.

If the primary purpose is travel, look for solar generators that help make traveling simpler. RV connectivity allows users to power appliances when they’re on the road. Car-charging capabilities make it convenient for travelers to drive and charge their solar generators without having to stop and set up solar panels.

Size and Solar Input

Shoppers choosing the appropriate size solar generator for their needs will need to keep in mind battery capacity and power requirements so that they avoid overloading it. Most solar generators can keep portable electronics, smartphones, tablets, power tools, small appliances, and cordless tools powered up for hours. However, buyers may need a separate generator, say, to keep a refrigerator running for an entire day.

Solar input refers to the solar panels. The solar panels collect and convert sunlight into energy that is stored in the generator’s battery. Ample solar input controls a generator’s operating time and how long it takes to recharge.

The solar panels used in conjunction with a portable solar generator are mobile and easy to manipulate. Unlike the panels found on residential or commercial properties, they are smaller in size and have a lower wattage capacity, which means less solar input than their larger counterparts.

Power Requirements

The output of power from a solar generator should match shoppers’ electrical needs. Battery power is measured in watts, which is the maximum amount of power a generator provides when it’s running. Battery capacity—referred to as watt-hours—is the total amount of stored energy.

When the generator is in operation, the watts represent the rate of power flowing from its battery to an electrical device, and the watt-hours are the maximum level of energy it can deliver. For example, a solar generator with 500Wh can store a total of 500W when it’s fully charged. Thus, a 500W solar generator is only able to power electrical appliances and devices that don’t exceed 500W to run.

Battery Storage Capacity

The battery in a solar generator is where the energy captured from the solar panel is stored for later use. Solar generators usually have lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries. Battery storage allows users to run the generator at night or on days with limited sunlight.

The capacity of the batteries determines the duration of the generator. The more power an electronic device requires, the faster the battery charge will run out. The length of the battery charge is also based on the number of devices drawing power from the generator at the same time.

A larger battery capacity is necessary to power electrical appliances that require higher watts. Lower capacity is sufficient for lights, cell phones, and laptops. For instance, a 500W solar generator can power an LED light for 100 hours, while it will only power a mini-fridge for about 10 hours.

Inverter Rating

Direct current and alternating current are the two forms of electricity. DC is electricity that flows only in a forward direction. AC is electricity that flows both forward and backward. The energy harnessed by solar panels is DC. A solar generator inverter converts low DC power from the batteries to AC power for usage.

The inverter rating translates to the maximum watts a solar generator can extract at any time. For example, a 1,500W inverter can draw up to that amount of wattage in AC power. Keep in mind that the inverter size or rating doesn’t always correlate to a solar generator’s overall firepower. Battery storage is also important.

Expandability of Power

Eventually, users may want to expand the capability of their solar generator, especially if they find they need more power. However, upgrading a solar generator is not always feasible.

Expanding power is based on the sustainability of the charge controller, which sends power in one direction from the solar panels to the batteries. As the integral component of the solar generator, the primary job of the charge controller is to protect the durability of the batteries.

The charge controller can only process the maximum number of watts and voltage that it’s built to manage, so users may not be able to expand beyond its charging ability. If battery capacity doesn’t support additional solar panels, power expandability is unachievable.

Types of Solar Generators

For individuals who live in areas with frequent power outages, a generator allows them to have an interim source of electricity. Two types of solar generators are available for at-home use: solar backup generators and portable solar generators. Both generators provide solar power but differ in terms of wattage capacity, energy storage, and cost.

Solar Backup Generators

Solar backup generators are designed to power up when the electrical grid fails and are an efficient alternative to installing a complete system. These generators use several batteries to store energy for high-wattage output. They provide sufficient backup power to turn on lights, televisions, computers, and small to midsize appliances.

Typically, it takes less than 48 hours to charge a solar backup generator to full capacity, but the time can vary depending on the size of the solar panels and the amount of sunlight. Buyers can keep these generators either indoors or outdoors. The disadvantage of solar backup generators is their weight, making them somewhat difficult to move. Additionally, a generator that is large enough to power an entire residence is expensive.

Portable Solar Generators

Portable solar generators are lightweight, so users can take them anywhere. They are ideal for homes, cabins, campsites, RVs, cars, and boats. Some generators are equipped with a pull handle or attached handgrip for effortless transporting. Solar panels recharge the battery in a portable solar generator.

Portable solar generators do have drawbacks. They may either have inadequate wattage capacity to power larger appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, hot water heaters, and sump pumps, or may not be capable of powering multiple devices at the same time.

If they use low-wattage solar panels, it may take a long time to recharge the generator. On the plus side, portable solar generators don’t emit noise or carbon dioxide, are affordable, and are low maintenance, unlike gas generators.

Tips for Using a Solar Generator

With a multitude of solar generators from which to choose, shoppers may find it difficult to decide which one fits their requirements. To begin, they will want to pinpoint how and where they plan to use it.

Solar generators are available in a variety of sizes with various wattage and storage capacities. They are primarily for powering homes during electrical outages or for outdoor activities like camping, hunting, sailing, fishing, and traveling. Solar generators are also an ideal power source for outdoor events, such as parties, festivals, craft fairs, and farmer’s markets.

How much shoppers want to spend on a solar generator is another important consideration. As solar generators increase in size and capacity, so does the price. Keep in mind that most solar generators don’t include solar panels, so that extra purchase will add to the expense.

• The solar generator should match shoppers’ intended purpose.
• It’s important to select the appropriate size, wattage, and storage capacity for usage.
• Focus on the features that suit an individual’s plans for the generator, such as the number of plug-in ports, charging speed, portability, carrying handle, flashlight, expandability, and weight.

The Advantages of Owning a Solar Generator

Owning a solar generator frees users from dependency on fossil fuels when they want a back-up system for emergencies, traveling, or camping. Plus, solar generators are portable and compact, so they are easy to store and move, unlike huge gas-powered generators.

Solar generators are also quieter, safer, and require minimal maintenance since they don’t have motors, moving parts, or emit harmful carbon dioxide. This alternative kind of generator is a green solution that collects energy from the sun to store in its battery and then produces power when it’s in operation.

The charging rate and power capability of a solar generator depend on its size, so shoppers will want to consider carefully where they’ll want to use it and how many electrical devices and appliances they want it to power.

• No fuel is needed to operate a solar generator.
• It’s a clean, renewable source of energy.
• A solar generator is low maintenance.

FAQs

It makes sense to own a solar generator so you’re not left without source of power either during an electrical outage at home or simply while enjoying outdoor activities and travel. The portability of solar generators makes them ideal for packing and toting on trips, and they’re especially handy for stowing and using in RVs, cars, boats, and cabins. If you still have some questions about which solar generator power option might be best for your needs, check out some of the most frequently asked questions about solar generators and their corresponding answers.

Q. How does a solar generator work?

A solar generator works when a solar panel converts sunlight into DC electricity that passes through the charge controller. The solar energy is stored in the battery, and thus a solar inverter generator turns the electricity into usable AC power.

Q. Can a solar generator power a house?

A solar generator most likely won’t power every item in your house at once. Depending on the size of the generator, it can charge and power a variety of large and small appliances, electronic devices, and medical machines.

Q. How do I choose a solar generator?

To choose a solar generator, think about your intended use and budget as well as how much battery capacity and wattage you need to power your appliances, electronic devices, and other equipment.

Q. What size solar generator do I need?

The size of the solar generator you need depends on the amount of wattage you require to power your devices and the duration time for charging.

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What Size Solar Generator Do I Need? (Power Station Tips)

A solar generator is a highly convenient and versatile power source. You can use one to access power while on the go or as a backup source of energy for your home. Before buying one, you might be asking yourself, what size solar generator do I need?

This is certainly an important question. Buying the right size solar generator will ensure that you have an optimal source of power without paying more for one than you have to.

But perhaps the real question you should be asking is, what size power station do I need for my solar generator?

This is because a “solar generator” can technically refer to a solar solution that combines two (or more) components. A Jackery Solar Generator consists of:

The solar panels – which collect the solar energy from direct sunlight.

The power station – which stores the electrical power converted by the solar panels.

In this article, we will help you figure out what size power station is most suitable for your solar generator goals. Keep reading to learn how to calculate the right power station size, along with other information about solar generators, so that you make the best choice.

How Power Stations Are Sized

Power stations are typically sized in watts (W). This is a measure of power that’s used to calculate the rate of energy transfer. But what you really need to know is that the greater watts a power station has, the more power it can provide you in a single charge. That being said, there are different watt measurements to pay attention to when deciding on a power station.

Continuous Power

The first measurement is usually called continuous power. This is the amount of power that a power station can provide consistently.

Peak Power

The second measurement is usually called peak power. This is the maximum amount of power that a power station can provide in a short burst.

Continuous Power vs. Peak Power (An Example)

Here’s an example. Think of when you turn on your air conditioner. It needs a quick burst of power to get started. That’s peak power. But the amount of power needed to continuously run the AC unit is generally lower. That’s continuous power.

Some appliances, such as refrigerators, need a burst of 3-7 times their normal power needs to get started. Keep in mind, your power station needs to be able to accommodate this peak power requirement to run the appliance. So, if you are looking for a solar generator to run a refrigerator, simply meeting the continuous power requirements won’t be enough.

Continuous power will likely be the more impactful number for you to think about. It’s what tells you how much power you will get from a single charge of your power station under normal conditions.

How to Calculate Your Optimal Power Station Capacity in 4 Steps

Jackery sells power stations to meet a wide variety of power consumption needs. Our products range from 167Wh of capacity to as high as 2,060Wh of capacity.

How Many Watts Do I Need in a Solar Generator’s Power Station?

To figure out which Jackery product offers the right power capabilities for you, you’ll need to perform the following calculations:

Step 1: Select What You Want to Power With Your Power Station and For How Long

The first part of picking the right power station for your needs is understanding what those needs are. This means selecting the specific devices that you want to power with your solar generator, and setting a rough estimation of how long you’d like for its power station to provide that power.

Tip: Be sure to only pick devices that you can plug into your Jackery Power Station. For example, things like water heaters are often hardwired into your home. So, the chances are you wouldn’t be able to power one with a power station. (Unless you also hardwire that device to your home.)

Here are some common devices that people power with solar generators:

• Laptops and PCs
• Phone chargers
• Kitchen appliances
• Hairdryers
• Air conditioners
• Video game systems

Step 2: Find Out How Much Energy Each of Your Selections Uses

Once you know what you want to power, it’s time to figure out how much energy you need to do so.

The starting point towards calculating this is finding out how many watts your devices need to run. This number is often listed somewhere on the device itself. But if you only see a measurement for amps, you can multiply that number by the item’s voltage to convert into watts.

Next, you need to pick how many hours you want to be able to use each of your devices. Then, multiply the number of hours that you’ve selected by the watts of each item. This will give you the total watt-hours you require to be able to power each device.

You want to power two 60 watt lightbulbs for two hours each. To find the total amount of watt-hours of power you need:

• Get the total hours: Multiply 2 hours of power by 2 light bulbs. (2 x 2) = 4
• Get the total wattage: Multiply 2 light bulbs by their 60 watts. (2 x 60) = 120
• Multiply them together to calculate the total watt-hours. (4 x 120) = 480

Then, divide your answer by 0.85 to account for a constant energy consumption rate of 85% when the device is in charge.

This results, in you needing a power station that can provide at least approximately 564 watt-hours to meet your goal of being able to power two 60 watt lightbulbs for 2 hours each.

Step 3: Add All Of Your Watt-Hour Answers Together

You need to perform the calculation shown in the previous step for each item you want to power with your Jackery Solar Generator.

Then, simply add all of the answers together to get the total amount of watt-hours that you need the power station to provide and reach the goals you have for it.

For example, let’s say you need 400 watt-hours to power your lights, 300 to charge your phone, and 300 to charge your laptop. Your total watt-hour requirement would be 1,000 (400 300 300).

Step 4: Determine the Watt-Hours of the Power Station You Want

At this stage, you have all the information that you need to pick the right portable power station.

Simply take your answer from Step 3 and compare it to the wattage offered by each power station that you look at. Just make sure that you pick a power station that has a higher wattage than your total watt-hour requirement calculated in Step 3.

Can a Solar Generator Power a House?

Note that unless you purchase a large Jackery Solar Generator (such as Solar Generator 1500 with an portable power station with 1,534Wh capacity), you likely won’t be able to power everything in your house for multiple hours with a solar powered generator.

If you find that the answer you got in Step 3 is higher than almost every power station you look at, then you may need to go back and reassess what you really need to power with it. If you can lower yourself down to just the essentials, then you will find a solar generator that works for you without having to break your budget to buy it.

The Benefits of Buying a Portable Solar Generator

Portable solar generators are a dynamic backup power option. You can use them both in your home and when you’re on the go. They’re purposefully made smaller than dedicated home backup solar generators to offer this flexibility.

As they feature a power station that you charge with portable solar panels, you essentially plug the portable solar panels into the power station until it’s charged. Then you can use the power that you’ve created on almost any appliance or electronic device that you want.

Many people purchase portable solar generators to get access to clean power while enjoying the outdoors. Then, as an added benefit, they can use the generator as a backup source of energy for their homes whenever they need one. It’s this versatility that’s made portable solar generators so popular.

Power Station Sizing FAQs

Can You Charge Any Device with a Jackery Power Station?

Jackery Power Stations can power a wide variety of consumer devices since they feature USB ports, a DC carport, and pure sine wave AC outlets.

Your device will need to be powered with one of these methods and use a level of power that is compatible with the Jackery Power Station you select.

Can a Jackery Power Station Jumpstart My Car?

No, you cannot jumpstart a car with a Jackery Power Station. But you can charge a car’s battery with a power station. So you can use your Jackery product to get the battery charged enough so that you don’t need to jumpstart it.

How Long Can a Jackery Power Station Power My Device?

This is entirely dependent on the amount of power that your device uses. You need to perform the watt-hour calculation (shown above) and compare that figure to the wattage of the Jackery Power Station model you select. Doing this will give you the answer you are looking for.

What Size Jackery Power Station Is Best for Me?

This will depend on how much power you want to get out of your portable solar generator. If you want to maximize the amount of power you get, then you should consider either our Explorer 1,500 Portable Power Station or our Explorer 1,000 Portable Power Station.

Jackery Power Station Size Options

Jackery provides a wide variety of power stations to make it easier for you to find one that fits your needs. We’ve put together a chart to help you figure out which is right for you.

Check out this table to get a better sense of the type of power you can expect to get from several popular Jackery Power Stations:

Conclusion

Solar generators provide clean, renewable energy as a low-maintenance power source for wherever you need it. Whether that’s in the home, the outdoors, or both. They can be a very worthwhile investment. However, it makes sense to buy the right size for your energy needs.

That’s why Jackery offers solar generators equipped with power stations of various sizes to ensure you find the one that suits your goals and budget. Always keep in mind what devices you are looking to power and for how long.

If you are unsure how much power you need, we hope this article helps you to calculate the right size power station, and consequently, the right size solar generator for you.

For more information on Jackery Solar Generators and the various size power stations they come with, take a look at our solar generators page.

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