Did you know that solar jobs in the United States have increased by 160 percent over the last ten years? Clearly, Americans have an appetite for solar energy.
And one way in which consumers are making use of the benefits of solar energy is by utilizing solar-powered generators. But what are solar-powered generators and how do they work?
Keep on reading to learn more!
What Is a Solar-Powered Generator?
A solar generator is a portable power station that runs on solar energy. It captures energy from the sun by using integrated solar panels. These panels transport the energy to an internal storage system.
While solar generators might not be able to power a large home, they can certainly come in handy for campervans, boats, or when you have an emergency blackout.
How Does a Solar Generator Work?
A solar generator works by integrating an inverter, battery system, charge controller, and solar panel into a compact system. This system is able to convert solar energy into a current that can be used for electricity.
Let’s go over these components in more depth.
Battery
A battery stores the energy it collects from the sun for the generator. Lithium-ion batteries are typically used. They are safer and more affordable in the long run than lead batteries.
Charge Controller
The main function of the charge controller is to promote durability and protect the battery. These components tend to have different features for discharging and charging. Those features are based on the kind of solar panel and battery combination that your device is using.
A charge controller is necessary for a solar generator to work. It balances the power dynamic between the batteries and the solar panels.
Inverter
The inverter converts the low direct current (DC) from the battery to alternating current (AC). This can be utilized to run your daily household electronics.
If an appliance runs on DC power then you won’t need the inverter. After all, you need to convert the energy.
Gas Generators vs Solar Generators
A gas generator comes with a lot of disadvantages. They are heavy, noisy, bad for the environment, and you need to have fuel on hand to run them.
It’s not always easy to get fuel. However, the sun’s rays are plentiful and it’s very easy to harness its energy when using solar generator technology.
If you’re interested in getting a solar generator, then it’s important that you learn more so you can get the right one for your needs.
Run Your Appliances on Solar Energy
As we can see, there is a lot going on inside of your solar-powered generator. But by understanding how these machines work, you can gain a new appreciation for them. You can also use the information to find the best solar generator for your situation.
Are you looking for other helpful articles? Check out the rest of our blog for more!
