Solar Generators: How They Work, How to Size One & What to Know

In this thorough guide, I’ll be showing you the ins and outs of solar generators so that you can find the best setup for your off-grid power needs.

I’ll begin with the fundamentals and then work into the specifics of both retail solar generators (Jackery, Bluetti, etc.) and DIY solar generators.

What is a solar generator?

Front section of River Max — *Front section of the EcoFlow River Max.*

A solar generator is a battery-based power system that stores energy and supplies DC or AC electricity. A complete solar setup normally includes solar panels, a charge controller, a battery, and an inverter. Many modern portable power stations combine the controller, battery, inverter, display, and output ports in one enclosure; the panels are often sold separately.

To choose the right size, follow three steps: total the energy your devices use in Wh, find the highest continuous and startup load in W, and choose a solar array that fits the station’s voltage, current, and power-input limits. Capacity answers how long; inverter output answers what it can run; solar input answers how quickly it can recharge under good conditions.

Key Takeaways

Size the battery in Wh from actual daily energy use, not from appliance nameplate wattage alone.
Size the inverter in W for the largest simultaneous load and its startup surge.
Expect less AC energy than the battery’s nameplate capacity because the inverter and the station itself consume power.
Check solar-panel open-circuit voltage, current, connector, and total power before connecting an array.
Portable power stations can operate without combustion exhaust, but they still require ventilation, dry conditions, and manufacturer-approved use.

Table of Contents:

How Do Solar Generators Work?
How to size a solar generator
Solar Generator Types and Sizes
What Is a Solar Generator Used For?
What Type of Solar Panels Do You Need?
What to Look For in a Solar Generator
Solar Generators vs Gas Generators
Benefits of DIY Solar Generators
Parts & Tools Needed for DIY Solar Generators
Limitations of Solar Generators

How Do Solar Generators Work?

A solar generator works by integrating solar panels, a charge controller, a battery, and an inverter into a compact system to convert solar energy into usable power. Charge controllers allow solar panels to safely charge the battery while inverters produce AC power for your appliances.

1. Solar panels collect energy

Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight into DC electricity. Rated panel wattage is measured under standardized conditions, so real output changes with sun angle, temperature, shade, dirt, cable loss, and controller behavior.

2. The charge controller regulates input

Atem Power charge controller — This is my Atem Power 20A MPPT charge controller. As seen by the image on the left, it has two adapters sticking out of it. One of these connects to the battery, while the other connects to the solar panel. Link to my Atem Power solar kit review here.

The charge controller manages power from the panels before it reaches the battery. Most current portable power stations use an MPPT controller. The controller cannot make an unsafe array safe: the panel string must remain within the station’s permitted voltage and current limits.

3. The battery stores energy

Battery capacity is usually listed in Wh. Current portable stations commonly use LiFePO₄ or NMC lithium chemistry. LiFePO₄ products generally emphasize longer cycle life and thermal stability, while NMC can offer high energy density. Compare the manufacturer’s cycle count together with its remaining-capacity endpoint.

4. The inverter supplies AC power

The inverter converts battery DC into household-style AC. Continuous output is the long-duration limit. Surge output is short headroom for motors and compressors. Pure sine wave output is the normal choice for appliances and sensitive electronics.

More information on inverters can be explored below:

My video below will hopefully give you some additional understanding of how these components work cohesively.

This video guide shows you the components needed to create a solar generator system.

How to size a solar generator

Step 1: measure or estimate energy use

Energy equals power multiplied by time. A 60W device running for 5 hours uses 300Wh. For cycling appliances, use measured average energy over time when possible instead of multiplying the maximum nameplate load by every hour.

Step 2: account for conversion losses

For AC loads, a practical planning formula is rated battery capacity × usable fraction × inverter efficiency ÷ average load. Example: 1,000Wh × 0.90 × 0.85 ÷ 100W = about 7.7 hours. The 90% usable fraction and 85% efficiency are assumptions, not universal specifications. Low loads may run for less time because the inverter’s idle consumption becomes significant.

Use the runtime calculator to test different loads and assumptions.

Step 3: check continuous and startup power

Add the wattage of devices that may run at the same time. Then confirm that the inverter can handle both the continuous total and the largest startup event. Refrigerators, well pumps, air conditioners, and power tools can have short startup loads much higher than their normal draw.

Step 4: size the solar input

A first-pass daily-energy calculation is daily Wh ÷ peak-sun-hours, then increase panel wattage for weather and system losses. The electrical configuration still has to meet the station’s limits. Review the exact manual and the solar panel sizing guide before wiring panels in series or parallel.

For more information on sizing your solar generator, here are a few of my articles that go into more detail:

Common size classes

Small portable power stations

Roughly 200Wh–500Wh systems are useful for phones, cameras, laptops, lights, and selected low-power camping gear. They are easy to carry but have limited AC runtime and inverter headroom.

Solar Charging Jackery Explorer 300 — *Solar charging my Jackery Explorer 300. It weighs just over seven pounds and it can fit in my backpack for on-the-go use.*

Approx. Battery Capacity Range: 200-600Wh
Est. AC Output: 200-600W continuous (400-1,200W surge)
Recharging Input (Max) Range: 60-200W
Typical Uses: Recharging devices; powering small AC and DC appliances
Price Range: $200-500

A small portable solar generator may be ideal if you plan to use it while you are on the go. With smaller batteries, this helps to reduce their overall weight, making them easy to pack and carry.

Some examples include the following models (each one is linked to my individual review):

Mid-size power stations

Roughly 500Wh–1,500Wh systems can support more devices and selected appliances. This is a popular range for car camping, RV support, jobsite electronics, and short emergency use. Always verify compressor startup loads.

This is the Jackery Explorer 1000 charging multiple devices. I was discharging it to test it out and it easily got over 500W of output. It was nearly silent even when it was using a pretty high amount of power. This model is capable of up to 1,000W of continuous AC output.

Approx. Battery Capacity Range: 600-1,500Wh
Est. AC Output: 600-2,000W continuous (1,200-4,000W surge)
Recharging Input (Max) Range: 200-800W
Typical Uses: Short-term power outage backup, recharging several devices at once, powering most common home appliances
Price Range: $500-2,000

These types of power stations are usually ideal for families that experience short-term power outages from time to time and need something with a higher output and battery life to keep some electronics and appliances running.

Obviously, there are several different environments where this type of generator can be used, but the main point of this class is its versatility – More power, more battery life, yet small enough to be carried by 1-2 people.

The following are some examples of this style of solar generator:

If you’re looking for something in between a small and mid-sized system, I recommend reading my review of the Jackery Explorer 1000. It’s one of the lightest models in its class, at 22 lbs. You can check it out here: Jackery Explorer 1000 Power Station Review – Complete Value Analysis.

Large and expandable systems

Systems above about 1,500Wh can support longer appliance runtime and partial home backup. Expansion batteries, higher solar input, and transfer equipment can increase capability, but they also add weight, cost, and configuration requirements. A portable system should never be connected directly to household circuits without manufacturer-approved equipment and a qualified electrician where required.

EcoFlow Delta Pro connected to two batteries — *This is the EcoFlow Delta Pro connected to two of its external batteries. A single Delta Pro has 3,600Wh of battery capacity along with a 3,600W AC inverter (7,200W surge).*

Approx. Battery Capacity Range: 1,500-4,000+Wh
Est. AC Output: 2,000-3,600W continuous (4,000-7,200W surge)
Recharging Input (Max) Range: 800-2,400+W
Typical Uses: Partial backup of home appliances, peak load shifting, off-grid living (cabin, RV, etc.)
Price Range: $2,000-6,000+

Solar backup generators are commonly used at home. They’re used in case there’s a need for a secondary power source if the power goes out.

They typically have a much higher AC output compared to portable solar generators. Some versions also can be paired with optional expansion batteries to store more solar power.

I was lucky enough to get sent one of these large systems in partnership with Nature’s Generator and their PowerHouse generator. It uses a lead-acid battery and weighs over 400 pounds! Check out my experience with the PowerHouse here.

Solar backup generators have a profound ability to power the most essential electrical appliances in the home. However, it’s important to note that you likely won’t find one that powers everything in your home.

Examples of these large solar backup generators can be found in these round-up posts here:

What Is a Solar Generator Used For?

Here’s a breakdown of who should invest in a solar generator as well as the cases where they are most beneficial:

1. Home and apartment backup

Solar generators are invaluable assets for home and apartment owners. Natural disasters, storms, unexpected power outages, and transformer malfunctions may happen at any given time, making your family vulnerable. When these emergencies happen, a solar generator can provide off-grid energy where needed until power is restored.
Prioritize communication, lighting, refrigeration, medical-device planning, and other essential loads. Never backfeed a wall outlet. Use only listed transfer equipment and follow local electrical requirements. If a medical device is involved, confirm compatibility and backup requirements with its manufacturer.
Below are some of my top picks for both apartments and homes:
- Top 5 Solar Generators for the Apartment (Small to Large)
- 5 Best Solar Generators for Home Use: Small/Portable – Large/Powerful

2. Camping and day trips

Solar generators can offer campers lots of comfort when they are out to satisfy their quest for adventure in the outdoors.
You can use the solar generator to power many tools, including tablets, laptops, electric lamps, electric cooking stoves, digital cameras, phones, portable fridges, e-bikes, and portable fans, making your camping experience more comfortable if desired.
Small and mid-size stations work well for device charging, lighting, cameras, fans, and compatible coolers.
However, if you’re looking for a solar generator to power your CPAP while camping, I’d look into models with at least 500Wh of battery capacity.
Keep the station dry, leave ventilation space, and avoid placing it in direct sun when charging.

3. RV, Trailer, & Van Life

RV at nighttime with stars in background

Solar generators are ideal for a weekend warrior or a boondocking full-timer because:

You can choose a larger system if you need more power for longer periods
You can install multiple solar panels on your vehicle’s rooftop for faster charging

For more information on RV solar, check out my post here: What Kind of Solar Panel Do You Need for Your RV? (Basic Guide).

Note the following: Verify 12V regulation, outlet current, grounding instructions, and whether an RV connection is built in or requires an adapter.

4. Boating / Fishing

Using a portable solar generator on your boat or when fishing can open up numerous possibilities. You may be able to power your phone, a compact refrigerator, an air conditioner, a coffee maker, or even a microwave depending on what’s necessary for your activity.

However, most portable power stations aren’t waterproof or water-resistant, so it would be best to have some form of cover so it doesn’t get wet. Marine use adds moisture and corrosion risks; make sure to understand the power station’s weather rating and manual control where it can be operated.

What Type of Solar Panels Do You Need?

Fanttik EVO Solar 100 charging EVO 300 — *Here’s my Fanttik EVO Solar 100 solar panel charging the EVO 300 portable power station.*

Another essential feature that you ought to look at in your selection is the type of solar panel that the solar generator has.

Nearly every brand that makes portable power stations (Jackery, Goal Zero, Bluetti, etc.) has an accompanying solar panel product line as an optional addition.

However, most of these panels offered are portable/foldable panels, which may or may not be what you’re looking for.

There are several rigid solar panels that are meant for mounting on rooftops, too. These are similar to the typical ones you may find on someone’s rooftop, like the one below.

Rigid Solar Panels

BougeRV 180W solar panel on an angle — *This is my BougeRV 180W monocrystalline solar panel. As you can see, it’s rigid, which means it’s not foldable.*

Rigid panels are usually the better value for permanent roofs, sheds, cabins, or ground mounts. They can be combined into arrays, but series voltage rises with each panel and can increase in cold weather. Use appropriate overcurrent protection, wiring, connectors, mounting, and grounding.

They are typically heavier than foldable solar panels but they’re also sturdier. This is with good reason, too, because they’re intended to be outside year-round.

With this in mind, rigid panels also tend to have long warranties. In several cases, the warranty period can be anywhere from 10-25 years!

If you don’t intend to mount solar panels on your roof, then portable solar panels are going to be of interest to you.

Portable/Foldable Solar Panels

Atem Power 200W panel open and closed — *This Atem Power 200W portable solar panel folds eight times over and can be easily stored and/or carried.*

Portable panels give you the ability to charge your solar generator when you need to and then pack it up for storage when you’re on the go. Folding panels are easier to transport and reposition. Their advertised wattage is a maximum rating, not a guaranteed field result.

These are often used for camping needs or for short-term use if there’s a power outage and you need to charge your batteries up.

If you’re not going to use your solar generator system daily, then using this style of panel is ideal. I personally have two portable solar panels that I’ve used for years and they’ve been fantastic. Read my Elecaenta 120W solar panel review for more details.

I have some resources that you can navigate regarding this style below:

Also, below is a video I made going over solar panel wiring which is a crucial step to get right when connecting multiple solar panels to your power station:

Series vs Parallel wiring for solar power systems – step by step guide

What to Look For in a Solar Generator

Although everyone has their own tastes on what they’d want out of a solar generator, the majority of the ideas I have listed below are the basics that everyone should look into.

After you have a good grasp of what to look for in terms of fundamentals, then any additional features are a bonus.

Battery capacity in Wh and a clearly defined cycle-life endpoint.
Continuous inverter output, surge rating, waveform, and outlet limits.
Solar-input voltage, current, power, connector, and number of MPPT channels.
AC, car, USB-C, alternator, and other charging paths, including conditions for advertised times.
Weight, handles, wheels, fan noise, operating temperature, and weather rating.
UPS/EPS behavior, transfer time, app controls, expansion compatibility, and warranty.

1. Battery Capacity

Proper battery storage is what makes it possible to use your solar generator for extended periods of time.

There are portable solar generators that come with battery capacities as small as 150Wh. This is essentially the same battery capacity as three large power banks combined.

For example, I used to own a Yeti 200X power station that had a 187Wh battery. It only weighed about five pounds, so it was a nice little system that I could use on the go.

At 150Wh, you would be able to charge multiple different devices pretty easily, but charging larger items like a laptop with it may take a large chunk of the battery to fully recharge it.

Be sure to select a solar generator with a battery capacity high enough to suit all your needs.

For example, if you need to power appliances such as refrigerators or small air conditioners, a solar generator with a 2,000Wh or higher battery capacity would do.

I have articles that go into detail on the ideal models for both AC units and refrigerators below if you’re interested:

2. Portability/Maneuverability

You don’t want to be lugging a giant battery around with you if you can have a lighter, more compact one that suits your needs.

A solar generator that weighs 10-20 pounds is ideal if you need a good amount of power on the go. At this weight, you’ll probably be able to find one with a battery between about 400-800Wh.

If you’re looking for a large solar generator, you may want to consider getting one with wheels for more comfortable transportation. Or you can invest in a cart with wheels and a handle to tow it around.

3. Inverter Rating

Bluetti EB55 front — *The Bluetti EB55 has a 700W continuous output from its AC ports (aka “inverter rating”). You can see this on the bottom right of the image (just above the AC section).*

The inverter rating tells you the number of watts that you can draw from the generator’s AC outputs at any particular point in time.

There are two numbers in an inverter rating:

Continuous output – The maximum allowable wattage that the inverter can maintain over time.
Surge/Peak output – The highest wattage that the generator can reach for a very short period of time. This is mainly for when you start your appliances up, as several of them need a short burst of power before returning to their normal operating wattage.

Most solar generators have a surge rating that’s twice as much as the continuous power rating, so be sure to confirm the specifications.

4. Solar PV Input

Solar charging the EB55 — *Here I’m using my Atem Power 200W solar panel to charge my Bluetti EB55. It outputted a maximum of 131W into the EB55. The EB55 is capable of a 200W (max) input from solar panels.*

A high solar input is crucial to have so that you can recharge your system as fast as needed. To figure out how fast a solar generator can recharge from solar panels, you will need to know the:

Maximum solar input wattage (sometimes called PV input)
Battery capacity (in watt-hours or Wh)

Sometimes the solar input listed is only in amps (A) and volts (V), simply multiply these two numbers together to get the maximum wattage.

For example, my EcoFlow River Max has a 576Wh battery with a 200W max solar input. I can simply divide the 576Wh by 200W to get 2.88 hours. This number simply shows the estimated charging time (from 0-100% battery life) via solar panels if a constant 200W was maintained.

Overall, in about 3-3.5 hours (to account for the charge controller settings and varying sunlight conditions) the River Max will be fully recharged.

This is a great recharging time for this model.

I recommend reviewing the spec sheets for any model you’re interested in so you can find out its recharging speed from solar. Doing this can help you avoid getting one that charges too slowly.

Lastly, it’s important to note the voltage and amperage limits for solar charging your generator. These should be listed on the generator, like below:

EcoFlow River Max Charging Ports — *If you look at the bottom right of this image (right next to the yellow input), you’ll see that the EcoFlow River Max has a solar input limit of 25V and 12A.*

With these numbers in mind, you can get a solar panel that fits within these limits.

Below are some additional resources to help you size your system.

5. Power Output Options

Fanttik EVO 300 all USB ports in use — *Fanttik EVO 300 with all USB ports in use.*

As you shop for a solar generator, another critical factor to pay close attention to would be the connectivity options. How many gadgets, electronics, and appliances can it accommodate?

Most solar generators have several USB, AC, and DC outlets. But some might have unique options like 30A RV ports, wireless charging pads, and Anderson Powerpole outputs.

6. Battery Cycle Life

Cycle life, or charge cycles, are extremely important to know when researching solar generator options. This rating tells you the number of times the battery can be fully discharged and recharged before it starts to lose its capacity (aka the ability to hold a charge).

For example, the Yeti 3000X has a cycle life of 500 cycles before its battery reaches 80% of its original capacity. Its original battery capacity is just over 3,000Wh.

After completely charging and then completely discharging its battery 500 times, the Yeti 3000X will now only be able to hold about 2,500Wh of battery juice compared to its original 3,000Wh.

The best solar generators take battery cycle life seriously because the higher the cycle life, the longer it will last. This saves you money in the long run.

The longest-lasting solar generators use LiFePO4 batteries. I’ll link my main article on this topic here: 6 Best LiFePO4 Solar Generators (Stats, Pricing, and Analysis).

7. Extra Features

Woman holding wifi symbol with green pasture background — *Pairing your devices to your solar generator via WiFi used to be exclusively for large, high-end models. Now, you can find it in smaller models, such as the EcoFlow River Max.*

Additional advanced features worth researching include WiFi integration, fast-charging USB ports, and advanced LCD displays.

Some solar generators come with advanced LCD displays that show you more details than others. For example, the Bluetti AC200P and EP500 models both have touchscreens to navigate several data points.

Thanks to advanced technology, you can also find models with WiFi connectivity. Connecting your generator to WiFi makes it easier for you to monitor power consumption and PV input. This is because you can use your smartphone to review data and interact with your system.

There are also solar generators that have fast-charging USB outlets. This charges your gadgets in a shorter time, especially if you are in a hurry to charge or power several devices.

Solar Generators vs Gas Generators

Battery systems produce no combustion exhaust at the point of use and can be quiet enough for indoor backup when the manufacturer permits it. Gas generators can refuel quickly and deliver sustained power while fuel is available, but they create carbon monoxide and must be operated outdoors at a safe distance from buildings according to safety guidance.

A solar generator is not instantly recharged by sunlight. Recharge time depends on usable solar input and conditions. For long outages, many households use a battery system for quiet overnight loads and another approved charging source for recovery.

Why Invest in a Solar Generator Over Gas Generators?

While gas generators emit fumes and need consistent refueling, solar power production completely depends on the capacity of the solar panel and the availability of sunlight.

Both generator styles have their own weaknesses, but opting for a solar generator brings some solid advantages:

Five reasons to invest in a solar generator infographic

1. Solar Generators Are Easier to Maintain: With nearly zero moving parts within a solar generator system, there is less need for maintenance as opposed to a gas generator, which has several moving parts. Combustion in a gas-powered generator is essentially a series of small and controlled explosions within its engine. In order to keep this process running long-term, they need to be lubricated correctly and consistently for smooth functioning.

2. Low Noise Pollution: The cooling fans within a solar generator are the only parts that create noise.

3. You Can Use Solar Generators Indoors: This is due to both low noise pollution and zero fumes emitted. With this ability, you can use a mid-sized or large system for offsetting utility costs in addition to backup power.

4. You Can Customize Your System: Portable power stations come in several different sizes, from the Jackery Explorer 300 which can fit in a backpack, to the Point Zero Energy Titan, which can connect several 2,000Wh batteries to its mainframe for long-lasting backup power. With larger solar generators, there are usually several variations and add-ons that you can use for your dwelling. If you decide to create your own DIY solar generator, you can pick out each component according to your own power requirements.

5. Longer-Lasting Off-Grid Energy: Probably the most important feature of all is solar charging. You only need sunlight in order to charge a solar generator off the grid. Plus, the right setup can keep your power running for much longer off the grid than a standard gas generator can.

DIY Solar Generators: Benefits of Building Your Own System

Cutting Edge Power solar generator charging with solar panel — Here is my Cutting Edge Power 500W solar generator charging outside. It isn’t my own homemade system, but I can change parts and expand my system’s battery capacity very easily. I’d call this a “semi-DIY system” since it has similar perks to making your own.

Getting a reliable, high-quality solar generator will cost you a pretty penny. You see, the generators that come with up-to-date features and are manufactured by top brands also come with a hefty price tag.

If you’re on a tight budget, the alternative would be to settle for a cheaper model that may not cater to your needs.

It doesn’t have to get to this. You can build your own DIY solar generator and enjoy similar benefits without compromising on quality. Here’s why DIY solar generators may be ideal for you.

1. Solar Generators are Safer than Gas Generators

If you’re searching for a safe and eco-friendly way to run your home or RV, solar power is the way to go. Therefore, if your budget won’t allow you to buy a ready-made solar generator, don’t settle for conventional generators. Build your own.

You can use it indoors and outdoors without worrying about leaks, fires, or leaks.

2. They’re a One-Time Investment

Solar generators require little to no maintenance. Ready-made options are built to last and often come with a two-year warranty or longer, depending on the brand. The only thing you’d have to do to keep the generator in tip-top condition is:

Check the panels after foul weather
Clean them semi-annually
Ensure nothing is blocking the sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells

However, these generators are not indestructible. The generator can malfunction. When this happens, you’ll have to call in an expert for repairs. This may also happen with a DIY generator. However, the difference is that you’ll be able to fix the problem because you built the generator. This further cuts back on your investment costs. Furthermore, you can invest in better parts because you don’t have to factor in labor costs.

3. Repairs are Hassle-Free

As we’ve mentioned, building a DIY solar generator is a good idea, especially when it comes to regular maintenance and repairs. When you understand all the components and how they were put together, it’s easier to swap out old parts for new ones and fix whatever is broken. The only cost you’ll incur in this is the amount required to get the replacement parts.

Otherwise, you’d spend a ton of money on paying an expert and getting the repairs. Do the math. DIY solar generators keep the money in your wallet for the long haul.

4. You Decide How Much Power You Get

Most solar ready-made generators have enough power to power the average home and cater to your needs. However, if you need to power your entire home or get more power than usual, you’d need to invest in a couple of solar generators to achieve this.

There is no need to do this because you can build a DIY solar generator that provides all the power you need.

5. You Cut Back On Costs

One of the top reasons to consider making a homemade DIY solar generator is the savings on costs. For starters, a solar generator greatly reduces your energy bill. Because this generator is powered by the sun, you never have to worry about electricity bills when using it.

Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about a hefty upfront investment because building your own further cuts down the costs. And as we’ve mentioned, the repairs will be so much easier and cost less with a DIY solar generator.

A DIY system can make battery capacity, inverter size, ports, and repairability more flexible. However, it also transfers responsibility for battery management, fusing, conductor sizing, overcurrent protection, enclosure design, ventilation, grounding, disconnects, and code compliance to the builder.

DIY Solar Generator Parts & Tools – General List

Below is a general list of the components and parts you’ll need.

1. Rugged Case

Invest in a waterproof, weatherproof, and all sturdy casing to hold all the components you need for the project. Some of the additional features to look for include:

Rolling wheels
Handles
Lock security
Space

Alternatively, you can invest in a toolbox that’s spacious enough to hold all your parts and tools. However, there should be some ventilation available to cool the components down when in use.

2. AC Solar Power Inverter

Charge controller and AC inverter on solar generator outside — *On my Cutting Edge Power solar generator, its AC inverter is on the left (in red), while its charge controller is installed on the right.*

A solar power inverter allows you to transform the DC voltage stored in the battery to the AC voltage that appliances use. Look for a solar power inverter with:

A healthy amount of continuous and surge power
Overload protection

3. Solar Charge Controller

A solar charger controller helps you regulate the amount of energy the battery is getting from the solar panels, thereby helping you prevent overcharging.

If you’re building a portable solar generator, ensure the casing of the solar charge controller is moisture-proof for optimum performance in any weather and to prevent damage.

4. Solar Panels

Portable solar panel and rigid solar panel side by side — *Elecaenta 120W portable solar panel (left) and BougeRV 180W rigid solar panel (right)*

Solar panels are a crucial part of your DIY solar panels. The panels absorb the sun’s energy and supply it to the battery. This part will be the most exposed in the generator. Therefore, you can’t afford to compromise on quality. Get high-quality solar panels that are built to last.

Lightweight, foldable, and portable solar panels are excellent options for portable solar generators. With these features, you’ll have an easy time packing the panels and generator when you’re going on a camping trip or need the generator on the go.

5. Batteries

*This is my TalentCell 12V 24Ah LiFePO4 battery. This one is very small for a typical DIY solar generator.*

The generator will also need a battery to store solar energy. There are a plethora of options to choose from. However, the typical solar generator uses one of three types:

Deep-cycle lead-acid
Lithium-ion
Lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4)

Lead-Acid	Lithium-ion	LiFePO4
Easily recycled	Compact and lightweight	Heavier than lithium-ion
It lasts much longer on a low charge	Highly efficient	Longest-lasting (longer than lithium-ion)
Well-proven technology	You can charge it partially without long-term capacity loss	Safer & less toxic components than the others

Before you decide which one to go for, explore both options and see which one caters to your energy needs the best. Also, explore different brands for quality purposes and price comparison.

Just because a battery is expensive doesn’t mean it’s high-quality. Don’t forget to read user reviews to get an idea of what to expect.

6. Battery Maintainer

A battery maintainer is a small charger that supplies your battery with a small amount of electricity when it’s been sitting out unused for a long time.

This is a crucial component to invest in because it extends your battery’s life. Without it, you’d have to repurchase batteries quite often.

7. AC, DC, and USB Ports

An AC power inlet is the external inlet on the hard case. Make sure the power inlet you purchase doesn’t require any cable modifications or hard wiring. It’s also best to go for one that’s 18 inches long and above.

If you want to add USB and 12V ports, make sure that they also don’t require cable modifications.

8. Additional Cables (If Needed)

Wires inside a solar generator — *These wires connect the charge controller, battery, inverter, and all other ports together.*

Although several components typically come with cables, you may need additional wiring to connect everything together. For solar charging, MC4 connectors may need to be purchased if the charge controller you get doesn’t come with one.

Want to Make It Easier? Get a Solar Kit

If this is your first time building a solar generator and you’re not sure how to go about getting all the separate components, it’s advisable to get a solar kit. Solar kits provide a reliable shortcut that allows you to build the generator with ease.

Most kits include:

Solar panels
Charge controller
Solar adapter kit
Cables
Connectors
Mounting brackets

These are the primary components you need to mount and connect your solar panel. You can get the other components listed above separately since it won’t make much of a difference in terms of compatibility.

Just make sure you invest in high-quality parts because the goal is to make a durable solar generator.

Tools

Apart from the above components, you’re also going to need a couple of tools to complete this project successfully. These include:

Utility knife
Files
Cordless drill with grinding extensions and drill bits
Automatic wire stripper with cutter
111-240V hot glue gun
Flat and Torx screwdrivers

Limitations of Solar Generators

Finite energy and output: every system has a battery capacity and inverter ceiling.
Recharge dependence: clouds, shade, temperature, and daylight reduce solar production.
Cost and weight: larger batteries and expansion hardware become expensive and difficult to move.
Weather limits: many power stations are not rainproof even if panels are weather-resistant.
Battery aging: usable capacity declines over time and with cycles.

Things to Consider Regarding Solar Generators & Solar Panels

Start with the loads, not the product. Measure the devices you need to run, calculate daily Wh, verify startup W, decide how quickly you need to recharge, and then compare products. My maintenance checklist can help protect the system after purchase.

Below are some final questions for you to ponder in addition to my advice.

Does the Solar Generator Come With a Solar Panel?

Some solar power stations do not come with solar panels.
Confirm to see if the package has a solar panel.

If the package does not include the solar panel, then confirm if the power station can connect to solar panels from other brands or if it only operates using proprietary solar panels.

How Much Solar Power Do You Need?

Calculate the total power ratings of all your gadgets (tablets, phones, mini coolers, laptops, drones, electric stoves, etc.) that want to include in your off-grid setup.

Odds are that you will not be able to power all of your gadgets simultaneously using the solar generator.

Thus, you will have to prioritize powering those devices that are most important first.

For a home backup solution, it is best to invest in a heavy-duty solar generator.

Will Solar Energy Be Enough for You?

Usually, charging a solar generator can take hours, so I’d be sure to keep the battery charged in case of an emergency. Bear in mind that there are some solar generators that you cannot use while they are charging.

Even with a large solar generator setup with several solar panels and batteries, weather can affect the recharging rate of your system significantly. If you live in an area where cloud coverage occurs frequently or sporadically throughout the year, it would be a good idea to also own a gas-powered generator in case of an emergency.

Do You Know How the Whole System Works?

It’s essential to figure out how solar generator systems work before buying one.

Conduct research on the different types of batteries available
Research the wattage of the devices that you plan to power
Know how the panels, charge controllers, inverters, and batteries work in unison to easily incorporate it into your lifestyle

Find What’s Right for You

Affordable, eco-friendly, and versatile solar-powered generators are a must-have for all enthusiastic campers, RV owners, and homeowners.

Be sure to research your options extensively so you can make the best decision for your wants and needs. My best advice for you is to take your time researching solar generators. Whether you intend to create a DIY system or buy one, continue to focus on the basics.

Most of the foundational questions you should ask yourself include:

Will it charge fast enough?
Will it output enough power?
Does it have the outputs that are ideal for my needs?
Is the battery large enough to keep the power running?
Does the battery have a long cycle life?

Solar generators can seem ultra-complicated (especially for DIY generators), but as long as you can keep it simple and focus on the core elements, you’ll eventually be able to know precisely what you need for a reliable off-grid power solution.

Here are some more resources for you: