| How to Build a Portable Solar Generator |
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| Environment - Environment |
| Written by Brian Bradley |
| Monday, 01 June 2009 08:18 |
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Building a portable solar generator is easy, even if you're new to do-it-yourself energy devices. It's easier to maintain and build than a "real" system, and it's very convenient if you go on frequent camping trips.
Building a portable solar generator is easy, even if you're new to do-it-yourself energy devices. It's easier to maintain and build than a "real" system, and it's very convenient if you go on frequent camping trips. You can build the entire thing for less than $200, and even less than that if you have some of the parts on-hand. And it can pay for itself in only 2-3 weeks' time. Here are the parts you'll need: 1) Solar Panel 2) Charge Controller 3) Battery 4) Inverter. These should be as small as possible, because this is supposed to be a portable generator that you can take with you on camping trips. Try to get a small, 12 Volt solar panel - that's all you need for camping trips and for miniature appliances. Once you attach the charge controller, the power drawn will be greatly limited as well and your battery life will be extended. The energy collected by your solar panel is stored by the battery, and you can then use it whenever you need it. The direct current electricity that you get is converted into alternating current by the inverter. You need 4 steps to make this device: first, connect the solar panel and charge controller. Then, connect the controller to your battery, and then connect your battery to your inverter. Finally, your appliances should be directly connected to your inverter. If you want to acquire these parts, you could go to your local hardware store - or just find someone on Craigslist who's selling them or giving them away. To add even more, start with a "battery box" to protect your batteries from the elements and from outside threats. You could also get a system meter to see how full your battery is and to point you to problems early on. About the Author: Brian Bradley is the Editor of DIY Clean Energy, the internet's top website for how to build solar cells and how to make a portable solar generator. |