My partner and I are on a global mission to unravel the mysteries of portable solar power systems. From the remote Baja Desert to the Colorado Highlands, we've ridden thousands of miles testing them on and off the road. And of course at home, in the workshop.
We are now ruined forever.
For the first ride, we used a Goal Zero Yeti 1500x gym with a 200-watt Nomad solar panel and two 100-watt Biolite panels. As part of this arrangement, we ran our electric dual-zone indoor refrigerator, as well as our coffee maker, laptops, phones, and portable shower pump on solar power during the weeks we camped.
Since. We tested different brands and models. We learned that.
What is a portable solar system?
A portable power system, also called a solar generator, solar power station, portable power bank, or battery box, stores energy for later use. Depending on the model, it can be charged via solar panels, wind turbines, a 120-volt household socket or a 12-volt car socket.
The term "portable solar power systems" is a misnomer. These are exclusively the conditions of sale of the portable power supply system with the possibility of charging via solar panels. Whatever you call them, these systems are great.
Although power plants vary in size and complexity, most include the following:
- Lithium battery chemistry due to its small size and light weight;
- Built-in inverter to power home appliances and household appliances;
- Multiple power inputs, Anderson connectors for solar panels, USB ports, 120-volt household charging ports and occasional 12-volt car charging ports;
- solar charge controller for receiving solar charge;
- Sockets for charging devices, including USB and domestic sockets. Some also have 30-amp RV-style outlets.
Types of portable solar power systems
© Courtesy of Lion EnergyPortable solar generators can generally be categorized by capacity, battery type, and inverter.
performance in watt hours
The watt hour indicates how much energy the battery can store. So if a generator is rated at 100 watts per hour, that means it can produce 100 watts for 1 hour or 10 watts for 10 hours. Smartphones charge 10 to 15 watts per hour, so you can charge your phone six to ten times at a 100-watt-hour multi-gym.
- Smaller portable solar systems like BioLite's 80PD (74Wh) and Goal Zero's Sherpa PD fit in a backpack. Charge your personal electronic devices while camping and traveling. It's a good idea to plug them in when you're at home and too lazy to go to an outlet to charge your phone or laptop. Often referred to as power banks, they can be charged via portable solar panels with built-in USB ports. Many can also be charged from an outlet.
- Mid-size systems like Go Power's DuraCube (512 Wh), Lion Energy's Summit (665 Wh), and Anker's 521 (256 Wh) fit nicely in the trunk of an RV. Simply charge the batteries of your power tools at work or in front of the computer. They typically use USB and Anderson connectors with solar panels. Many can also be charged from an outlet.
- Larger systems like Goal Zero's Yeti 1500X (1516 Wh), Anker's 757 (1229 Wh), and BioLite's BaseCharge 1500 (1521 Wh) take up slightly more space, about the size of a toaster oven. But they can run power tools, continuous positive pressure machines, coffee makers, and refrigerators.
- Anker's 767 (2,048 Wh), Renogy's Lycan Power Box (4,800 Wh), and Goal Zero Yeti 6000X (6,071 Wh) are heavier for portability, but for RVs, RVs, remote workplaces, or even commuting home, the system is the only one.
batteries
Almost all portable solar power systems use lithium battery chemistry. Currently the two main types are LiPo4 (or LiFePo4, LFP) and NMC (or LiNiMnCoO2). Both have their strengths, but without getting too technical: the advantages of LiPo4 are safety and durability.
Although NMC is widely used, the chemistry has the potential to avoid heat. In addition, LiPo4 batteries can charge/discharge up to 5000 cycles on average, with NMC around 500 cycles. However, NMC chemical batteries are slightly lighter than LiPo4 batteries and have a higher energy density, which is useful in certain applications.
inverter
You must also consider the system's maximum inverter AC power, which varies in watt-hours.
Before you buy, find out the maximum wattage of any appliance you intend to use, especially tools like power tools, coffee makers, and microwave ovens. Ensure that none of the power ratings exceed the maximum AC power of the inverter. If so, the device will not connect.
Pros and cons of portable solar power systems
© Courtesy of RenogyWhile portable power plants have changed our lives for the better in camps and workshops, they also bring frustration. Here's what to consider when deciding which one is right for you.
Positive
- Allows offline use and charging of electrical devices.
- It does not burn fossil fuels, making it cleaner and quieter than traditional generators.
- It can be charged via solar panels or sockets.
Disadvantages:
- Depending on your charging needs, you may need to adjust your panels throughout the day to get the most out of solar energy.
- At high temperatures, it can spoil.
- If disposed of improperly, NMC batteries can be toxic in landfills and cause heat.
How Much Do Portable Solar Systems Cost?
Prices vary by manufacturer and included features, but expect to spend between $1 and $1.50 per watt-hour.
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