Everything You Need To Know About Mobile Solar Generators

Published on: 06 January 2021 Last Updated on: 03 September 2024

Solar power has been around for quite some time, and the first photovoltaic cells were created in the 1950s.

Since then, technology has been improving, and the efficiency of modern photovoltaic cells has increased immensely, making solar power a viable option.

If you are considering getting mobile solar generators, here is everything you need to know.

What Are Mobile Solar Generators?

Most solar generators are static, which means they do not move. However, there are mobile ones that you can transport to any location and use if there is enough sunlight.

These items are common with people who love camping, RV camping, and boats, and they come in a variety of sizes.

They are also popular for use in infrastructure projects, agriculture, and even remote communities.

Mobile solar power generators have a bank of photovoltaic cells. These cells turn sunlight into energy, which can then be stored in batteries. This type of power generator is handy for your next outdoor adventure.

What Do You Need for Mobile Solar Generators?

When you are looking to purchase or make mobile solar generators, four components make the device, which are:

Solar Panels

An Investor

A Solar Charge Controller

Solar Batteries

The solar panels and batteries are the parts of this device that can vary in quality. You will want to select the most efficient solar panels you can afford and high-quality batteries to store your electricity.

How Do They Work?

You first need to transport your system to where you want to set it up and then assemble the solar panels. The solar panels collect energy from the sun, which is converted to a Direct Current (DC), and it is then passed through the solar charge controller.

The controller regulates the voltage of the electricity when charging the battery, where you store the power to be used later.

When ready to use the energy collected from your solar panels, the inverter converts the DC power into AC (Alternating Current), which most electrical appliances use.

The Pros & Cons of Mobile Solar Power

There are a lot of benefits to using solar power, but there are some drawbacks as well. One of the best things about solar power is that it is 100% clean and renewable energy that you are using, and there are no fuels to burn, which will create pollution.

They are also relatively simple to maintain, and the biggest task will be to clean the solar panels and ensure that they are running at maximum efficiency.

There are some cons to solar power as well. The biggest one is that there is a significant upfront cost required to purchase the equipment you will need.

You are also limited to the amount of power you can store, depending on the size and efficiency of your batteries. The charging process is also slow.

The expense of solar technology can pay for itself in a short time, so it is worthwhile to invest in.

You will have the luxury of being able to use your electrical devices wherever you go, safe in the knowledge that you are doing your part for the environment.

How Mobile Solar Generators are Good for Digital Nomads

As a digital nomad, one of the things you will love about this lifestyle is that you will have all the freedom to work from wherever you may be.

That said, it can be challenging to stay connected or keep your devices charged, and that is where mobile solar generators come into play with an easy eco-friendly solution.

Whether you’re working in a coffee shop or camping in the wilderness, mobile solar generators will keep your devices charged. Here’s how.

On-the-Go Power

Mobile solar generators are lightweight and compact, so you can take them with you on the road.

No matter if you’re driving in a van or RV or backpacking around the world, your generator comes with you to power your mobile office no matter where you set it up.

Minimize Digital Nomad

As a digital nomad you can minimize your carbon footprint by using the sun as your source of energy, instead of relying on fossil fuels.

Most of us tend to be living a sustainable and minimalist lifestyle already, so this suits us well!

The initial investment for a mobile solar generator may seem high, but it pays for itself over time. With the sun as its fuel source, you save on fuel costs. Additionally, many nations provide tax credits or reimbursements on renewable energy usage.

Quiet Operation

Traditional generators can make a lot of noise, which isn’t necessarily something you want in a quiet, natural environment as a digital nomad.

Mobile solar generators don’t produce any noise pollution. So, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of your surroundings without a constant drone running a petrol engine.

Independence from the Grid

Modern mobile solar generators are equipped with advanced batteries that store energy efficiently.

This means you can have a consistent power supply even on cloudy days or at night.

Many models also offer multiple output options, including USB ports, AC outlets, and DC carports, to charge various devices simultaneously.

Since you don’t need electricity to generate more electricity with these gas-free solar generators; you are not chained to the local electricity grid.

Especially when it takes weeks for electrical companies to get everything up and running again. Yes, it’ll not affect you at all.

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5 Features to Look for in a Business Energy Provider

Switching business energy suppliers is an opportunity that every company should not miss out on. Compared with a residential household, companies use more energy daily. An average UK small business spends around £13,000 on electricity annually, and another £7,000 on gas. With so much on the line, it is crucial to find the best and most affordable energy tariffs. Apart from the cost, you also need to consider the reliability of the service considering that any interruption will cause significant damage to business operations. That’s why it is also essential that while you are comparing quotes from different suppliers using a comparison tool like Utility Bidder, you also need to take into account the following factors. Supplier history and reputation: Corporate responsibility and values adhered to by an energy provider are some things to look into if you want to partner with a reputable supplier. Some may think that the natural choice is going with large companies that have been around for many years. Although it is true that the top energy suppliers may provide some of the best services out there, there is no reason not to look elsewhere and choose a supplier that is relatively new on the scene. These small providers usually have more personalized services, and many people are missing out on these benefits because they think that bigger is always better. Service areas: In this regard, big energy suppliers are a better choice. Depending on where you are located, you will want an energy provider that supports your location and guarantee that there will be fewer or no service interruptions. Apart from reliability, you may also want to look into tax incentives or local prices which may vary from one supplier to another depending on where you are. Prices and plans offered: The energy market is affected by many factors which makes it highly volatile. Apart from choosing a fixed-rate plan over variable plans, you also need to ensure that the supplier you want has the best offers and rates. Take note of cancellation fees or other fees associated with transferring from one supplier to another before you decide. Hidden transaction fees can add up and increase the cost of a plan which makes switching less than beneficial if that is the case. A wide range of services: In finding the best energy provider, you also need to consider if the supplier offers a variety of services. Paying multiple suppliers could be a waste of money, and if you can get all services under one roof, you will have a better chance of getting the best rates. Customer service: Suppliers with reliable service also tend to have excellent customer support. As a business owner, you need to ensure that any issues you have with your energy supply are dealt with quickly. As much as possible, choose a provider with round the clock customer service. This way, you are confident that you can get help at any time of the day. Customer support is not merely about responsiveness, but the capability to provide the best possible solution considering the unique circumstances of your company. Read Also: 7 Tools Your Business Can Utilize To Simplify The Customer Onboarding New Technology In Business: 4 Inventions In 2019 That Are Changing The Game A List Of The Essential Factors You Need To Consider When Installing Solar Panels In Your Home What You Should Know About Solar Energy For Schools: Benefits, Expectations, And More

10 Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home

Solar panel has become increasingly popular in the past few years. This is partly driven by how environmentally friendly it is, although many people have noted how economical it can be too. Despite being a smart decision for lowering energy bills, potential users can be put off by its installation costs. This shouldn't be an issue, as installing solar panels at home can be much easier than people might expect. As long as you have some DIY electrical knowledge, then you should be able to install the panels yourself. As Gem Energy Brisbane Solar Power notes, there are a number of steps that you'll need to take when installing a solar panel at home. Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home 1. Calculate Your Electrical Load: Before you decide on anything, you should calculate your current electrical usage. Once you've done so, you'll then be able to determine which solar panels and other parts you'll need. This is relatively simple to do, and often only requires a bit of math, plus an energy reading from your meter. 2. Battery Selection: Which battery you choose can be vital for your solar power. Naturally, the panels only generate electricity during the day, so you'll need to store some for the night. To do so, you should choose a high-quality one that provides a consistent amount of electricity over time. This will make it reliable when you're running several appliances during the evening. 3. Select Your Solar Panels: There are a considerable number of solar panels to choose from, which can be overwhelming. When you're deciding on one, you should look at its energy rating. This is typically determined based on set conditions, with some being more appropriate for certain weather. As a result, you should research how well a model will perform in your area. 4. Know Where To Place It: When you're considering a solar panel, you should determine where the best place on your property to put it is. There can be a few factors at play here, with access to sunlight being the most notable. The obvious place to install the panel is your roof, although you'll need to decide where to place it here. 5. Choose A Charge Controller: This is a device that's placed between your battery and solar panel and regulates the flow of electricity between the two. Choosing the right one can make a large difference, as it dictates how effectively your battery will charge. This means that you should spend a considerable amount of time picking one. 6. Pick The Right Inverter: Solar panels typically turn sunlight into alternating current (AC). However, most appliances function on direct current (DC). As such, you'll need to purchase an inverter, which switches from one to the other. There are a few types of inverters to choose from, each with its benefits. As such, you should spend time researching each. 7. Mount The Solar Panel: Once you have the equipment, it's now time to mount the solar panel. You can either create your own mounting mechanism or purchase a premade one. If you're not overly familiar with the process, then it's recommended that you buy a kit. When creating your own, be aware of the angle that you're mounting it at, as this will affect how much sunlight it receives. 8. Inverter & Battery Stand: Similar to the solar panel itself, you may need to build a stand to hold your battery and inverter. However, this isn't a complicated task, as you'll be able to make do with a box that includes a hole for the wiring. Once everything has been wired, it's important to note that you should cover this hole as much as possible to keep everything from being damaged. You should also ensure that it's kept away from running water. 9. Start Wiring: The wiring may be the most overwhelming part of the process, although it can be more straightforward than you think. Put simply, the connection should go from the solar panel to your charge converter to your load, i.e., your appliances. Alongside this, the charge controller should be connected to your battery, which should also be connected to your load. 10. Start Enjoying Your Solar Panel: Once you've connected everything in the appropriate manner, you can start enjoying your solar power. While setting everything up, you should ensure that you've done so in the right way. The wiring is the most important area here, so you should take care of it. Read Also: What You Should Know About Solar Energy For Schools: Benefits, Expectations, And More

Why Do Some Solar Power Systems Include A Battery?

When you go to purchase a solar power system, you will find a variety of options. Some will include a battery. Others will not. The battery can either be a battery that stores the energy of the sun, one that stores the power of the wind, or a combination of the two. Lithium-Ion Batteries Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that provides more storage capacity without taking up more space than lead-acid batteries. These types of batteries are useful for off-grid power stations. They have high charging and discharging efficiencies and long service life. However, lithium batteries do have their limitations. These include the potential to catch fire. Furthermore, the battery's lifespan depends on how deep it is charged. This is known as the Depth of Discharge or DoD. Most lithium solar batteries have a DoD of about 95%. While this means that the battery can be safely used for more than ninety percent of its total capacity, it also means that the battery will need to be recharged every so often. In addition, lithium-ion batteries are generally more expensive than lead-acid batteries. Depending on how many batteries you want to purchase, it can cost from $5,000 to $15,000. To make up for the higher cost, there are federal tax credits available. Compared to lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion solar batteries have a longer lifetime. Lead-acid batteries have a short lifespan, usually around five years. On the other hand, lithium batteries can last for twenty years or more. A properly installed lithium ion solar battery will have a very low risk of thermal runaway. The round-trip efficiency is another characteristic of a lithium-ion battery. It is the difference between how much energy is used to charge the battery and how much is left when the battery is fully charged. Generally, lithium batteries have a round-trip efficiency of between 90 and 95 percent. Some lithium solar batteries require three stages of charging. The first stage charges the battery until it is about 90 percent full. This is done by using a voltage regulator charge controller. At this point, the battery begins to drain the amperage. The second stage of charging is where the battery is charged for a short period of time until the amperage is nearly full. If you use a store charger, this will increase the discharge rate. Because of the sensitivity of the battery to temperature, it is advisable to choose a battery that is designed for cold or warm weather conditions. Lithium-ion batteries are generally more forgiving than lead-acid batteries. However, they may still need to be replaced in the future. Therefore, it is important to look for a company that has an excellent track record of customer satisfaction. Another important consideration is the warranty. Ideally, you should be able to buy the battery with a warranty that guarantees the specific capacity of the battery. The warranty should also state how many cycles and years of good performance it can provide. Choosing the right battery for your solar panel system is dependent on many factors. You will need to consider the frequency of discharging, the amount of available space, and the installation method. DC Coupling DC coupling in solar power systems is the process by which electricity generated by photovoltaic panels is routed directly into the batteries of an energy storage system. This can help reduce the overall Levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and provide increased energy independence. In addition, it eliminates the need for a second inverter or additional controls. One of the main benefits of using a DC-coupled system is that it is more efficient. With an AC-coupled system, each DC output of a PV module must be converted to AC, resulting in efficiency losses. When the dc output of the PV modules is directly tied to the battery of an Energy Storage System, it is possible to maximize the amount of solar-generated electricity fed into the grid. While an AC-coupled system can be a viable option for some applications, a DC-coupled system is preferred for most projects. The reason is simple. These systems are easier to install and operate. They are also slightly more efficient than their AC counterparts. For this reason, they are considered the best choice for new solar+ storage installations. There are a variety of factors to consider when deciding between an AC and DC-coupled solar system. The specifics of a particular project will play a big role in this decision. However, one important factor is interconnection costs. Using the same inverter to charge and discharge your battery system can decrease the cost of the installation. Also, co-locating your assets will reduce the cost of land acquisition and permit applications. Another benefit of adding a battery bank to your PV system is that it can allow you to take advantage of tax credits. As a result, you can end up with a completely self-sufficient home. You will be able to store excess energy for use during periods of inclement weather or in the evening when the solar panels are no longer producing. DC coupling is a promising development in the field of energy storage. It is a newer system architecture that can increase the efficiency of an Energy Storage System. Unlike the AC counterpart, a DC-coupled system has direct current wiring. This allows for faster, simpler installation. Furthermore, the systems can be expanded. Inverters used in DC-coupled systems are usually smaller than those used in AC-coupled systems. Because of this, DC-coupled systems may be more suitable for residential or small commercial applications. Those that are more than 6kW will require multiple strings of solar panels. If you need more than a few kilowatts of energy, you will need to invest in MPPT solar charge controllers. As more utilities and solar developers begin to develop DC-coupled solar+storage solutions, the industry is expected to become more mainstream. The technology has the potential to lower the cost of implementing solar+ storage projects and will make the energy storage market more competitive. Hybrid Systems Hybrid solar power systems offer a number of benefits over traditional solar systems. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to store energy in your own home. This is especially beneficial when the weather is cloudy or when the sun isn't shining. Hybrid power systems can work alone, but they also work when connected to the grid. They allow you to store extra electricity in your battery and then return it to the grid at peak hours for high-value credits. The most efficient hybrid system will use a basic inverter that controls the flow of power into the battery. Another major benefit of a hybrid system is its capability to store and provide power in case of an outage. While a traditional grid system does not have the battery backup capacity to keep your lights and appliances running during a power outage, a hybrid power system can do just that. There are a number of components that go into making a hybrid system. These include batteries, an inverter, a combiner box, and a solar panel. Each of these items can be used to improve the efficiency of your system, which translates into lower costs and a longer lifespan. A hybrid solar system is especially appealing to consumers in areas that are prone to losing power for long periods of time. These systems can be a great way to cut down on your energy costs and help protect your house from future rate hikes. Also, a hybrid power system can be more environmentally friendly than a system fueled by fossil fuels. Most hybrid systems will use lithium-ion batteries as the main source of energy. Lithium-ion batteries are capable of holding more energy and have more capacities than lead-acid or other types of batteries. While a hybrid system may be a bit more expensive than a purely on-grid system, it is still much cheaper than an off-grid system. In addition, some utilities do not have retail rates for solar electricity. Even with a small solar array, you can save up to two-thirds of your electric bill. Another big advantage of a hybrid system is the fact that you will get credit for the amount of electricity you produce. Some utilities have net metering policies, which allow you to buy back excess energy from the grid for a higher rate than you pay for the actual electricity. Depending on your area, you may be eligible for a federal rebate. For example, the Federal Investment Tax Credit is available through 2022, which will allow you to reduce the cost of your solar power installation by up to 30%. Moreover, in 2022 or 2023, the federal tax credit for solar power projects will be extended, which will further decrease the price of a hybrid system. Read Also: Is Energy A Good Career Path? – A Detailed Guide Best Paying Jobs In Energy Everything You Need To Know About Mobile Solar Generators

Everything You Need To Know About Mobile Solar Generators

What Are Mobile Solar Generators?