Whether we’re talking solar panels or generators, both are forms of backup energy sources that can come in handy during a power outage. But how do they compare?
To understand this, we must first look at the advantages and disadvantages of both solar panels and generators.
You also need to take into consideration the use cases. If you are using them on your house or using them with an RV/caravan then your power needs will vary considerably.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key differences between solar panels and generators:
Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Panels
Advantages of Solar Panels
- Environmentally friendly – no toxic fumes.
- Silent.
- Maintenance-free.
- Safe application via low DC voltage output.
- Portable panels can be strategically re-positioned.
- Can be cheaper than a generator.
Environmentally friendly – no toxic fumes
There’s no better way to go green than by harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity.
Solar panels don’t produce any toxic fumes, making them a much more environmentally friendly option than generators, which typically run on gasoline or diesel.
Silent
Solar panels are completely silent when in operation. This can be a big advantage if you’re using them in an area where noise pollution is a concern, such as near hospitals or schools.
Maintenance-free
Solar panels have no moving parts, which means there are very few maintenance concerns to worry about. In contrast, generators require regular maintenance and servicing to keep them running properly.
Safe application via low DC voltage output
Solar panels typically produce a low DC voltage, which is safe to work with. This is in contrast to generators, which produce high AC voltages that can be dangerous if not handled properly.
Portable panels can be strategically repositioned
If you have a portable solar panel, you can position it to maximize its exposure to sunlight.
This flexibility can be a big advantage, especially if you’re using it in an area where the sun’s position changes throughout the day.
Related: How Does A Portable Solar Charger Work? (EXPLAINED)
Can be cheaper than a generator
Solar panels have no fuel costs, which means they can be cheaper to operate than generators over the long term.
In addition, solar panels have no moving parts, so there are fewer maintenance costs to worry about.
Disadvantages of Solar Panels
- Roof-mounted panels are susceptible to damage.
- Restricted to running low-current appliances.
- Portable panels require safe storage.
Roof-mounted panels are susceptible to damage
With high winds and heavy rains, roof-mounted solar panels can be susceptible to damage. This is in contrast to generators, which are typically stored safely indoors.
Restricted to running low-current appliances
Solar panels can only generate enough power to run low-current appliances. If you need to run high-current appliances, such as an air conditioner or washing machine, you’ll need to use a generator.
Portable panels require safe storage
If you have a portable solar panel, you’ll need to find a safe place to store it when it’s not in use. This can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have a lot of space.
Related: How Does A Solar Generator Work? (EXPLAINED)
Advantages and Disadvantages of Generators
Advantages of Generators
- Capable of producing large amounts of electricity.
- Instant and reliable power.
- Most practical application for running high-wattage appliances.
- User-friendly.
- Better cost-to-efficiency ratio than solar.
- Not weather dependent.
- Can be hired at short notice.
Capable of producing large amounts of electricity
Unlike solar panels, generators are able to produce a burst of power in a very short period of time.
This can be a big advantage if you need to run high-wattage appliances, such as an air conditioner or washing machine.
Instant and reliable power
Generators provide instant and reliable power, which can be a big advantage in emergency situations.
Solar panels, on the other hand, can take several hours to generate enough power to run appliances.
Most practical application for running high-wattage appliances
Solar panels are only able to generate enough power to run low-current appliances. If you need to run high-current appliances, such as an air conditioner or washing machine, you’ll need to use a generator.
User-friendly
Generators are typically very user-friendly, which can be a big advantage if you’re not familiar with electrical systems. Solar panels, on the other hand, can be more complicated to install and operate.
Better cost-to-efficiency ratio than solar
Solar panels are typically more expensive than generators, but they’re also less efficient. This means that you’ll need to generate more power to run the same appliances.
Not weather dependent
Solar panels are weather dependent, which means that they won’t work as well in cloudy or rainy conditions. Generators, on the other hand, can produce power regardless of the weather.
Can be hired at short notice
If you are developing a new build or commercial project and you need a generator at short notice, it can be hired from many companies.
Also, if you know that you working in area that is not supported by the grid, or you are working remotely, then a generator can be hired at short notice and for long periods of time.
Related: Islanding (WHAT IS IT AND HOW TO PROTECT FROM IT)
Disadvantages of Generators
- Barred in national parks and some caravan parks.
- Ongoing maintenance and costs.
- Relatively expensive initial outlay.
- Fuel dependent.
- Emit noise but toxic fumes.
Barred in national parks and some caravan parks
In most national parks and some caravan parks, the use of generators is not allowed due to the noise they make.
This can be a big disadvantage if you’re planning to visit these types of places.
Ongoing maintenance and costs
Generators require ongoing maintenance and can be expensive to operate. Solar panels, on the other hand, have very few moving parts and require very little maintenance.
Relatively expensive initial outlay
Generators can be expensive to purchase, especially if you need a high-wattage model. Solar panels, on the other hand, are relatively inexpensive (especially portable ones) and can be installed DIY.
Fuel dependent
Generators are fuel dependent, which means that you’ll need to have a supply of petrol or diesel on hand to operate them.
Solar panels, on the other hand, rely on the sun for power and are therefore not fuel dependent.
Now we understand both positive and negatives of each. Let’s look at the realistic use cases for your home or Caravan/RV.
For Your House
If we are comparing solar panels and generators they will primarily be used as backup systems in case of a power outage.
Solar panels
If you live in an area that is prone to storms or other weather events that could cause a power outage, having a backup system is important.
Now, solar panels only work when you combine them with some form of battery storage.
This could be a lead-acid battery, lithium-ion battery, or even a super-capacitor. The battery will store the power generated by the solar panel so that you can use it at night or during a power outage.
The main advantage of using solar panels is that they are free to operate once you have installed them.
You just need to make sure that you have enough sunlight to generate the power you need.
Note: Solar panels can not be used on there own as a primary backup source.
Generators
Generators have been the main source of backup electricity for several years.
They are typically powered by petrol or diesel, and they use an engine to generate electricity.
The main advantage of using a generator is that they can be used to power just about anything in your home.
This includes large appliances like air conditioners and washing machines.
Note: Generators should not be used indoors as they emit harmful fumes.
The main disadvantage of using a generator is that they are noisy and they require fuel to operate.
This means that you need to have a supply of petrol or diesel on hand, and you need to store it safely.
Related: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?
For Your Caravan/RV
The use cases for a Caravan/RV are very different to a house.
First, let’s look at how you would use solar panels in a Caravan/RV.
Solar panels are typically used to recharge the batteries that power the lights and appliances in your Caravan/RV.
They can also be used to power things like laptops and phones.
The main advantage of using solar panels in a Caravan/RV is that they are free to operate once you have installed them.
You just need to make sure that you have enough sunlight to generate the power you need.
The main disadvantage of using solar panels in a Caravan/RV is that they can be damaged by bad weather.
The power generated is also quite small, which means that you might need to supplement it with a generator or other power source.
Now, let’s look at how you would use a generator in a Caravan/RV.
A generator can be used to power the lights and appliances in your Caravan/RV.
They can also be used to recharge the batteries that power the lights and appliances.
The main advantage of using a generator in a Caravan/RV is that they can be used to power just about anything in your Caravan/RV.
This includes large appliances like air conditioners and TVs.
The fact that they are portable is an added bonus, as you can take them with you when you go camping or travelling.
The main disadvantage of using a generator in a Caravan/RV is that they are noisy and they require fuel to operate.
This means that you need to have a supply of petrol or diesel on hand, and you need to store it safely. You also need to make sure that you have a way to vent the fumes from the generator.
So, Which Is Better? Solar Panels Or Generators?
The answer to this question depends on your specific needs.
If you are looking for a backup power source for your house, then solar panels with battery storage are a good option.
They are free to operate once you have installed them, and they can be used to power just about anything in your home.
If you are looking for a backup power source for your Caravan/RV, then generators are a good option.
They are portable, and they can be used to power just about anything in your Caravan/RV.
However, they are noisy and they require fuel to operate.
It all depends on the amount of power you need, the amount of space you have, and your budget.
What About A Solar Generator?
When a solar panel converts light into direct current (DC) electricity that goes through the charge controller, a solar generator is created.
The sun’s energy is stored in the battery next. The inverter transforms the power from DC to accessible alternating current (AC).
The benefits of a solar generator are that it’s renewable, silent, and portable.
You can take it with you when camping, or use it as a backup power source for your home. The main disadvantage is that it’s expensive.
Related: What Are the Pros and Cons of a Solar Generator? (EXPLAINED)
How much power does a solar generator generate?
For example a Jackery Solar Generator 1000 can generate up to 1000W running wattage, 2000W surge wattage and larger 1002Wh capacity.
If you have the budget for it, a solar generator is a great option.
FAQs
Do You Need A Generator If You Have Solar Panels?
Solar panels and a generator cannot be run simultaneously. At all times, they must be physically separated. If solar inverters detect voltage from a generator, they will attempt to sync with it and send power back into the system. This might cause harm to the generator or even cause an fire.
0 comments