Solar Powered Generator

[tmlogo]

We have yet to buy generators for our Mini lite 2104s. Recently a friend told us of a generator they bought at Costco that runs on solar. Wondering if anyone has experience with this type of generator, and do they work well? Any brand recommendations?.

[Flybob]

Something doesn't sound right here. There are systems that generate power using solar as a source and a controller for DC and inverter for AC, but this is different than a generator. Please ask your friend for details, link, manufacturer. There are some small solar/battery gizmos that are marketed as a generator, but that all it is is marketing.

[wmtire]

Originally Posted by Flybob

Something doesn't sound right here. There are systems that generate power using solar as a source and a controller for DC and inverter for AC, but this is different than a generator. Please ask your friend for details, link, manufacturer. There are some small solar/battery gizmos that are marketed as a generator, but that all it is is marketing.

Yeah, what these are is a battery powered inverter, recharged by solar.


They do call them generators, and they do produce 120 volt AC.


https://www.costco.com/Goal-Zero-Yet...100338966.html


https://www.amazon.com/slp/portable-...987yrm9t4u85xf

[richp]

Hi,

Gimmick nomenclature with variations on this theme...

A relatively small battery, a small inverter, and some outlets in a case -- ready for solar input but nowhere capable of powering anything of substance for any lengthy period of time.

Good for a very limited array of uses, in my view.

FWIW.

Rich Phillips

[McKannick]

Your Mini Lite is already wired for a portable solar panel, with the plug right there by the forward passenger side storage bin door. All you need is a 100 watt solar panel WITH the charger controller and your set for boondocking. However, if you're wanting to run big things like your AC, you will need a pretty decent sized typical gasoline motor powered generator, that would be rated for probably 2000 watts output.

https://www.amazon.com/Renogy-Monocr...s%2C134&sr=8-3

[str8t six]

yup, your friend basically purchased a battery with a inverter.

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by tmlogo

We have yet to buy generators for our Mini lite 2104s. Recently a friend told us of a generator they bought at Costco that runs on solar. Wondering if anyone has experience with this type of generator, and do they work well? Any brand recommendations?.

The only things those are good for, is charging electronic devices and power some lights.

[TitanMike]

Originally Posted by bikendan

The only things those are good for, is charging electronic devices and power some lights.

If I read all the ad's correctly they seem to be directed more toward Tent Campers to do just what you stated.

Compact, easy to store and transport in a trunk, SUV, or "Station Wagon".

I have run across some that are the size of a backyard bbq that have more battery capacity and a somewhat intricate system of folding panels that can be deployed at site. Price was rather high and probably used Lithium batteries. Wasn't interested so I didn't pursue specs, etc.