Traditional gas and diesel generators have been the go-to choices for reliable backup power solutions. Nevertheless, noise pollution, fuel consumption and having to operate them outdoors because they are harmful have made alternative power users look for a more practical solution that is environmentally-friendly.
Now enter the solar generator – a real innovator in the field of emergency power. Innovative devices combine backup battery power stations with solar panels harnessing and converting the sunlight into an alternative energy source. Solar generators are quite opposite to their noisy gas counterparts and provide a stealthy way of ensuring that your lifelines remain functional.
Talking about van living, solar generators are a great fit for you if you choose to embrace a more mobile lifestyle. These attached generators are capable of charging while on the move and therefore supply a reliable fuelless power source for running appliances in vans, RVs or any other kind of mobile dwelling.
So read on to discover how to choose a solar generator, how they would benefit you and are they worth it?
What is A Solar Generator?
Alright, so picture a solar generator as your own little buddy that feeds off the sun’s energy. Not an ordinary generator, it sucks up those rays and converts them into electric power. Such systems usually have mounted solar panels which collect sunlight and route the collected energy into an internal storage system that often employs lithium-ion technology.
You won't see solar generators powering big houses because of their capacity limitations, they are quite decent in other practical applications. Solar generators are particularly useful for boats, campervans and outdoor adventures.
These solar systems are very efficient because they can transform sunlight into renewable energy, thus creating an environment-friendly source of power. The integrated lithium-ion storage will provide a continual stream of power so that you can draw upon the stored energy whenever it is needed, be it while cruising offshore on a boat or using the campervan to journey across the country.
Pros Of Using Solar Generator For Van Life
Green Energy
One of the most appealing qualities of solar generators is just how eco-friendly they are. As the solar generator operates, there are no fumes or exhaust so this unit can be installed both inside and outside. Solar power is the cleanest way of charging your gadgets in van life.
Quiet Operation
If one of the reasons that you have chosen van life is to get away from sound pollution in cities and neighborhoods, then a solar generator will provide just what your mental well-being needs. A solar generator has eliminated all that noise. An elegant way to power is a quiet, clean and cheap one.
Portability
Solar generators are portable. This versatility is invaluable, especially if you wish to drive the van far into the woods where there might not be room for parking. You can simply take your power along with you! And since camper vans are smaller and have a sort of living area footprint, it goes without saying that a portable solar generator isn’t going to take up all of the space in your van.
Low Maintenance
Investing in a solar generator would therefore be quite worthwhile because they need hardly any maintenance or upkeep. You don’t have to keep anything lubricated so nothing rubs against something else and you also never need worry about spillages since there’s no gas tank that needs filling.
Also, there are a lot less moving parts to worry about. Your only trouble is to simply set up and take down your solar panels to charge your solar generator.
Cost Saving
A solar generator is a smart idea for one-time investment. After you’ve purchased, your running cost will be cheaper compared to a fuel powered generator. The sun provides free solar recharging and considering gas prices which have a tendency of going up you can save your bucks. Thus, when compared to other generators you will realize that solar types have a slightly higher initial cost; however it will not take long before the equation of being money saving hits.
How Do You Choose a Solar Generator for Living in a Van?
Power Capacity
Calculate how much energy each of your RV appliances would require. Make sure that the solar generator you choose is able to meet your requirements.
Charging Options
Solar generators work with the wall socket and solar panels. The adaptability of your generator dictates which sources it may be charged from, so you can continue working even when on the move. Furthermore, decide on a solar generator that has the ability to charge many devices at once carrying multiple types of outlets.
Battery Type
Consider the kind of batteries that are used in solar generators. Lithium-ion batteries' rise in popularity can be attributed to its high energy density and portability.
Portability
RV owners’ vehicles should be mobile. A portable solar generator should be small and mobile. In addition, the incorporation of wheels or handles can enhance portability and make it easier to assemble and transport.
The Best Solar Generators for Van Life in 2024
BLUETTI AC200P + 3*PV120
BLUETTI AC200P solar generator, an off-grid camping god with a whopping 2kWh capacity. Visualize a great powering device for your gadgets, powered by the Lithium Iron Phosphate battery that can endure for 10 years – a loyal assistant to accompany you on many camping trips. The Smart BMS guarantees that your devices are always monitored and protected.
However, stop right there; the power alternatives don’t end here. With the USB-A/USB-C, a cigarette lighter port, 12V /3 DC ports, 12/5RV ports and wireless charger of which you have pretty much everything. This solar generator is complete with 3 PV120 solar panels. The ETFE-coated panels are intended to resist wearing. Despite cloudy conditions, the PV120 is capable of converting 23.4% solar energy into electric power. The AC200P is not only for camping; it's ideal for van living, so you can have the best power solution on your way out. Go outdoors without it!
BLUETTI AC180+2*PV120
Finally, the all-rounder BLUETTI AC180 as your choice for indoor and outdoor use. It easily deals with different power needs armed with a 1,800W constant power and Power Lifting Mode that delivers up to 2,700W packed with AC, USB-A, USB-C ports and also a wireless charging pad, it’s convenient for both mobile or remote living.
Fast Turbo Charging with up to 1,440W allows replenishment while you’re packing. The ideal for van living, the AC180 and PV120 solar panels make a strong pair. With monocrystalline cells, the solar panels generate energy by utilizing up to 23.4% of sunlight – a perfect fit for your power requirements during travel or in remote areas.
BLUETTI AC200L+PV350
The BLUETTI AC200L is the solution for high power demands with 2400W and a surge capacity of up to 3600W. Not only is it a generator but also an efficient marvel that works silently to guarantee quality and quiet results. The AC20L outperforms its predecessors by efficiently using solar energy effectively.
The AC200L is seamlessly supplemented by boosting its prowess with the PV350 solar panels. Producing 350 Watts of monocrystalline wonder with an unusual conversion efficiency of 23.4%, these panels turn solar power into electric power. Suited perfectly to RV life, with PV350 solar panels the AC200L brings a new synergy of comfort and sustainability to your traveling adventures. Utilize solar energy smartly in order to accelerate and improve the mobile life charging process.
Is A Solar Generator For A Van Worth It?
So coming to the worth of solar generators. Inside van life, a solar generator isn’t just a useful extra; it changes your nomadic lifestyle into an effortless merger of efficacy and magic. Imagine it as your silent, reliable friend who silently converts the sun’s energy into powering up your van life. It encompasses more than just the ease of recharging gadgets or illuminating roads – it’s about a green, eco-friendly lifestyle on wheels. With its small, discreet size a solar generator will allow every bit of your mobile refuge to enjoy freedom and adventure you love. After all, it’s not just the fact that you are using electricity as a source of power; it is about how enchanting the touch makes your van life more charming and magical than any other mundane activity.
Final Thoughts
Today, more and more people are jumping onto the solar generator train; it is not hard to see why they do. There are plenty of perks, especially if you’re on the road in your van. The wallet-friendly aspect of the best solar generator for van life is what makes it a star player. Low running costs and almost no maintenance expenses compared to hungry fuel powered generators follow the affordability aspect of solar generators.
So, the concept of going solar in van life is not a matter of choice but it is an intelligent step toward cost saving giving less trouble and that too with consuming quality time on road.
