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A Simple Portable Solar Generator
This article has been updated with the help of 12Vman. Thanks much!
By
using parts easily available from local stores, you can make a portable solar
powered generator for $250 to $300. This is great for power failures and
life outside the power grid. The portable solar generator can be used to
power your computer, VCR, TV, camera, lights, or DC appliances anywhere you go.
This is great for use in cabins, boats, or tents or trailers.
Technical specifications for this solar power generator:
Here are the
parts you will need:
1- Solar panel - rated 12 volts or more (look for 16 volts). These are readily available on-line as marine battery charging modules. The price can range from $60 to $120, so shop around.
1 - Deep cycle 12 volt lead/acid battery. You need the deep cycle battery for continuous use. The kind in your car is a cranking battery, just for starting an engine.
UPDATE: The use of a wheelchair or GEL battery is a better alternative. These batteries do not loose their charge. The battery will have the same amount of power a year later, even if left unattended. Also, GEL doesn't spill, even if you tip the battery upside down. The GEL doesn't freeze in the cold, and it has a "life expectancy" of 15 or more years! The price is comparable to a regular car battery, $50 -$60.
1 - Battery box - The box will cover up the exposed terminals, which is a must if there are children around. If the system is going to be installed in a pump shed, cabin, or boat, a box is not necessary. A battery box can be purchased for around $10.
1 - 12 volt DC meter. These can be found at electronic stores, such as Radio Shack, for approximately $25.
1 - Triple DC inlet. The triple inlet model, which you
can find at a car parts store, will cost about $10.
Note: If you want to run AC appliances, you will have to invest in an inverter. This will convert the stored DC power in the battery into AC power for most of your household appliances. A 115 volt 140 watt inverter made by Power-to-Go can be found at Pep Boys (a car parts store) for $50. More powerful inverters are available by mail. Count up the number of watts you'll be using, e.g., a small color television(60 watts) with a VCR(22 watts) would require 82 watts, to determine how large an inverter you would need.
How to Build:
1. Use a drill to attach the meter and DC input to the top of the box.
2. Use insulated wire to attach the meter to
the wing-nut
terminals
on the battery. Connect the negative (-) pole first. Only handle one
wire at a time. Connect the DC inlet to the battery in the same way.
Connect the solar
panel to the battery in the same way.
3. Close the lid. The use of a bungee cord will help keep it tight.
4. Put the solar panel in the sun. It will take approximately 5 - 8 hours to charge a dead battery, and 1 - 3 hours to top off a weak one. This system will run radios, fans, and small wattage lights all night, about 5 hours of continuous use at 115 volt AC, or about 1 hour boiling water.
Note: You can also mount the solar panel on a camera tripod for ease of use.
This system can be expanded by adding on larger panels, inverters, and batteries.
This will generate enough power for DC appliances. There are many DC appliances available such as fans, one-pint water boilers, lights, hair dryers, baby bottle warmers, and even vacuum cleaners!
For Your Reference:
The best all-around books for getting started with alternative energy.
(Click on the pictures)
