The Basics of a Solar Inverter Generator
Solar generators convert DC electricity from batteries into the alternating current (AC) that most appliances use. They’re designed to handle higher-energy consumption items like fans and portable refrigerators, though they won’t power things that require constant running, such as an oven or washer.
Essentially, solar power stations combine large rechargeable battery packs (similar to those used for charging mobile devices) with an inverter and AC ports. They are available in a range of capacities, from small portable units to larger models that rival gas-powered generators.
Inverter
The inverter converts the direct current (DC) from your solar panels to alternating current, which is what most household appliances use. The power inverter for your home system will have a variety of output voltages and capacities depending on what your energy needs are and whether you’re planning to connect to the grid or go off the grid with your solar panel installation.
Pure sine wave inverters provide the cleanest and most efficient electricity for your off-grid solar battery setup. Renogy offers a range of pure sine wave inverters to suit various solar panel systems and energy needs.
Modified sine wave inverters work well with many electrical equipment such as traditional incandescent light bulbs and some appliances with AC motors like microwaves. However, some sensitive equipment can be affected by harmonics produced by modified sine wave inverters.
If you’re thinking of going off the grid, choose a pure sine wave power inverter to avoid harmonics interference. Always consult your inverter’s manual to ensure the proper sized fuse or circuit breaker and cable gauge. An undersized fuse or cable can overheat and cause fires or damage your inverter.
Some inverters perform multiple functions including providing grid services and monitoring. For example, an advanced inverter can respond to signals from a central control unit to change its power output as supply and demand on the grid fluctuate, known as automatic generation control.
Battery
The battery is the heart of any solar generator and serves as its storage unit. Lithium-ion batteries have been common in solar power stations since about 2016, although less efficient lead acid batteries are still found in older models. Lithium-ion batteries use a combination of lithium and nickel, manganese cobalt or other metals in an electrochemical cell to store energy in the form of chemical potential.
When you need to power devices, the battery converts its DC (direct current) into AC power which can then be solar cell manufacturer fed to electronics or appliances. This function is why solar generators typically have a built-in inverter. A separate inverter can be purchased to add to a solar generator system for extra power generation.
A battery management system or BMS is also used in some solar generators to ensure the safety and longevity of the cells within a generator’s battery. The BMS monitors each cell’s voltage and current, balancing them as needed and shutting down the entire system if a problem is detected.
Almost all solar generators feature ports and plugs for connecting devices, though the number of outlets and ports vary by model. They can range from one or two standard AC outlets to multiple USB ports with varying power delivery capacities. Some models also have a car cigarette lighter adapter or other 12-volt inputs, depending on the intended uses of the solar generator.
Charger
The battery packs in these portable solar chargers come in a wide range of capacities. From large models that can keep the lights on and appliances running in an emergency or off-grid, to lightweight options suitable for camping, tailgating, or powering devices like a laptop, tablet, phone, or CPAP machine. Some have removable and expandable batteries, making them easy to transport in a backpack or car trunk for longer trips.
A built-in battery management system (BMS) protects the cells by monitoring and controlling how the cells charge and discharge. It helps prevent overcharging, which can shorten the lifespan of a battery pack. Some of these systems allow you to use AC and solar simultaneously, letting you prioritize which source gets used at different times of the day or in different weather conditions.
The panels in these devices typically fold flat into a rugged, briefcase-style case. They also have a handle and a pouch for cords, so you can easily carry them to your campsite or vehicle. Most models have metal grommets where you can hook them up to a backpack, tent, or other object to prop them up and orient them toward the sun for maximum exposure. Many have LCD or LED screens that display basic information like the battery’s current wattage output and estimated time until charge or depletion, while some have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities for remote visibility via mobile apps.
Controls
The control on a solar generator is primarily the charge controller and the inverter. They are responsible for storing energy and converting it into AC electricity to power devices and appliances. The battery is another internal component and dictates the maximum wattage of the generator.
A solar panel has photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC). This DC electricity passes through a generator’s maximum power point tracker, or MPPT, to connect with the generator. It’s important to ensure the MPPT controller can connect with your specific solar panels and does not exceed their voltage requirements.
Once the energy is stored in a built-in battery, an inverter transforms DC into alternating current (AC) power. The inverter also handles the combined input wattage of AC and DC electricity to deliver power to devices.
Some devices require pure sinewave electricity like medical equipment or at-home health monitors. This type of electricity is characterized by its smooth, oscillating current, and the best solar inverter generators are designed to produce this type of clean energy.