What's the best solar generator for emergencies?

It's pretty common for people to have a backup generator in case of emergencies. A big, clunky, stink, loud, polluting, annoying gas-powered generator. Ugh. 

What if there was an alternative to the gas generator that can do all the same things, and more, with none of the issues?

Something clean, quiet, maintenance-free, non-polluting, able to keep running without having to refill it with expensive fuel, able to operate indoors without killing everyone with carbon monoxide poisoning, with a status display telling you exactly how much power is in it and how much you're using. Sounds pretty awesome, huh?

Well what alternative does exist, it's the solar generator.  

Hands down the best way to prepare for an emergency is with a solar generator, and we're here to tell you about the best solar generator for emergencies.

For a quick crash course in emergency solar power, download our Emergency Solar Power 101 guide to become an expert in how to keep the lights on when the power goes out.

What is emergency solar power and why is it so awesome?

Emergency solar power provides clean energy straight from the sun to power your devices, lighting, electronics, and anything you need when the power grid goes down. What could be more awesome than harnessing the power of the sun when you need it?

Having a source of electricity is essential for emergency preparedness, and emergency solar power is especially awesome since it doesn’t require you to store cans of expensive fuel. Solar power is also clean, quiet, and simple.

What is a solar generator?

A solar power generator is similar to other types of generators but it uses sunlight instead of fuel. Energy from sunlight can be either used immediately or stored in batteries so that you have a reserve of power to use during storms or at night. 

The generator contains the charge controller, which regulates voltage, and an inverter, which inverts DC current to AC current. It has multiple outlets so you can plug just about any type of electric device directly into it, and has a display showing how much power is stored, how much you're using, and how long it will last with your current draw.

How does a solar generator work?

A generator works by collecting energy and storing it in its internal batteries, then managing the flow into and out of them. The size of the generator’s internal batteries dictates how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) of power it can generate. 

A solar generator acts as the power source for any appliances or devices connected to it. It can recharge using any electric source, such as a wall outlet or car battery. However, generators reach their full potential when connected to solar panels; energy from the sun is stored and utilized by the generator, creating a clean source of electricity whenever you need it.

What to look for in a solar power generator

When shopping for a solar power generator, consider the following attributes, among others:

• Power output: The total watts the generator produces.
• Battery capacity: The larger the battery’s capacity, the longer it will last before needing to be recharged.
• Weight: Lighter generators are easier to move, but they usually have a lower output and capacity as a trade-off. 
• Price: Make sure you are considering your budget and your needs when choosing a generator. 

Solar kits: the best way to get a solar generator

All-inclusive budget-friendly solar generator kits are available to make it simple and affordable to get started with portable emergency solar power.

Each kit contains:

• Solar panels; the number of panels changes based on the size of the kit: eclipse (1-2 ), nomad (2+), quad (4), or hex (6)
• Connectors and cables
• Wiring diagrams and setup instructions for easy installation

Some kits also contain extra features, but these are the necessary elements every kit has.

What’s the best solar emergency generator?

The following solar power generators make our top 6 list, starting with the runner-ups and finishing with our most recommended emergency solar generator. 

#6 Bluetti AC300

Several Bluetti generators make our top 6 list. They can be used as portable, weather-proof power stations, and can all be controlled with the Bluetti Smart App so that you can stay safely inside during an emergency.

Coming in at number 6, the Bluetti AC300 can be purchased as a nomad kit or a quad kit. Numerous outputs include 6x AC outlets, 2x wireless charging, 4x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x 12V car outlet, and 1x 12V RV outlet.

• Power output: 3,000 watts
• Battery capacity: 3,072 Wh
• Weight: 47.6 lbs

Price: $3,699 (generator), $4,559 (nomad and quad kits)

#5 Bluetti AC200P

The Bluetti AC200P is available as a nomad kit and a quad kit. This generator can run a full-sized fridge for over 20 hours, 10W lights for over 200 hours, and AC for two hours to keep you cool in a heat wave. At only 26.5 lbs, this generator is one of the lightest on this list.

• Power output: 2,000 watts
• Battery capacity: 2,000 Wh
• Weight: 26.5 lbs
• Price: $1,699 (generator), $2,149 (nomad kit), $4,459 (quad kit)

#4 EcoFlow DELTA MAX

EcoFlow is a powerhouse in the solar generator category with a range of solid, reliable portable power stations available. An awesome choice is the EcoFlow DELTA MAX, available in a nomad kit and a 4000 quad kit. The Delta Max nomad kit is the most affordable on this list for budget-conscious shoppers. This generator is so powerful, it can be used to run high-power tools like welders and can even charge electric vehicles.

• Power output: 2,400 watts
• Battery capacity: 3,600 watt-hours (Wh)
• Weight: 48 lbs
• Price: $1,799 (generator), $2,149 (nomad kit), $4,459 (quad kit)

#3 Bluetti AC500

The Bluetti AC500 is the most high-end and most powerful of the Bluetti AC series with a 5,000W power output. The battery capacity is expandable up to a staggering 18,432 Wh. 

• Power output: 5,000 watts
• Battery capacity: 3,072 Wh to 18,432 Wh
• Weight: 66.2 to 79.6 lbs
• Price: $2,599 (generator), $5,897 (nomad kit)

#2 Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro

Jackery is a name you can’t go wrong with. The Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro is available as a pro nomad kit or pro eclipse kit. Operating at only 53 dB and emitting no toxic fumes or gases, this generator is quiet, clean, and good for the environment, while retaining all the power of diesel generators. 

• Power output: 2,200 watts
• Battery capacity: 2,160 Wh
• Weight: 43 lbs
• Price: $1,999 (generator) $2,459 (eclipse kit), $3,659 (nomad kit)

#1 EcoFlow Delta Pro

The best emergency solar power generator is the EcoFlow Delta Pro, which can be purchased as a delta pro nomad kit or a delta hex kit. Its 3,600 Wh battery can be supplemented with two extra batteries.

You can control the EcoFlow Delta Pro from the generator itself, with the remote control, or the EcoFlow app. Combined with the Smart Home Panel, this generator can supply power for up to 10 home circuits. Use it when the power goes out or regularly to save money on your bills!

• Power output: 3,600 watts
• Battery capacity: 3,600 Wh
• Weight: 26.5 to 36.8 lbs
• Price:  $2,699 (generator), $3,689 (nomad kit, 2 rigid panels), $4,859 (hex kit, 6 rigid panels)

The EcoFlow Delta Pro's massive total output capacity of 6,500W (with extra batteries), ease of use, and 5-year warranty are why it is our best solar generator for emergencies.

Where can I get an emergency solar generator?

Having a solar generator is an essential part of emergency preparedness. Invest in solar power today with your own solar power kit from the Shop Solar store and never be without power in an emergency again.

Learn how to use solar power to be prepared for any emergency with our comprehensive guide to emergency solar power. 

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