Switching to solar energy has become the most beneficial solution for many French households. They opt for the installation of solar panels on their roofs. However, recently, these fixed energy devices come in a mobile version that is much more convenient and practical. These are portable solar panels. How do they work? What are their advantages and disadvantages? What are the different uses you can make of it? How to choose the ideal model according to your needs? Here are answers!
Portable solar panel: what is it ?
A portable solar panel is a solar power plant. Unlike fixed models installed on roofs, it is smaller, thinner and lighter. You can then easily transport it from place to place and charge your devices wherever you are. Many families rely on this technology to charge their small devices and reduce their electricity bills. At the same time, they take great care of the environment.
The fact that these models of solar panels are portable does not mean, however, that you can do without fixed versions to be installed on roofs. These foldable devices simply represent auxiliary equipment in the event of a power failure or loss of power. Additionally, you can get EcoFlow portable solar panels to carry them on your travels.
Portable solar panels: how do they work ?
THE fixed solar panels and portables are equipped with the same mechanism: to convert solar energy into electrical energy thanks to photovoltaic cells. These are made up of monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon. They are generally exposed to the radiation of the sun which they absorb. Then their photons pull the electrons out of the silicon, creating a current along the electrical conductors of the cells. This electricity can be channeled through a charge controller.
Portable solar panels are sometimes associated with a lithium ion battery portable so that its power can be used in all conditions. They come with a single plug to power a variety of devices. You’ll probably also find a DC outlet and a USB port. These components allow users to directly charge phones or laptop.
Also, unlike rooftop solar panels, portable panels are enclosed in a mesh or plastic protective sleeve. The power of some large portable panels can be equivalent to that of a rooftop solar panel. However, portable panels are not intended to replace those you install on the roof. This is because, due to their design, they lack the structural integrity and voltage regulation of a fixed, rigid solar device.
How to choose your portable solar panel ?
During the choosing the ideal portable solar panel, it is important that you consider where you will take it and what you will use it for. Here are some other key factors to consider:
- The power,
- The battery and storage capacity,
- The connectors,
- The type of panel.
The power of the panel
How much panel wattage do you need to power your various electrical devices? This is perhaps the main question you should be asking yourself. To answer this, the first thing is to draw up a list of electronic devices you plan to connect. This way you can add up the power consumption in watts of each device. This will give you an idea of the power you will need.
The power of a portable solar panel is often between 45 and 300 watts. There are also smaller ones that can generate between 5 and 50 watts. This power depends on factors such as panel efficiency, size and sun exposure depending on weather conditions.
Battery and storage capacity
Once you have the proper power of the portable solar panel, you can do two things with the electricity it will produce. First, you can consume it instantly by directly connecting devices or store it. Some panels have an internal storage battery.
However, you can use portable batteries, portable charging stations or even solar electric generators like the models offered on the site https://fr.ecoflow.com/. The option to choose will depend on the use. The storage capacity will also depend on a few factors. These include the amount of power required, weight, size (for portability).
Storage devices are very useful for storing solar energy at night or in weather conditions that do not allow radiation from the sun. Using a battery as a gateway between the solar panel and your appliances is also important because of maintenance.
connectors and adapters
As a rule, the connectors have USB type A ports with at least 5 V and 1 A. These can be used to charge mobile phones or tablets. Take a good look at the type of connector you need and the voltage it can get.
On the one hand, it is important that you pay attention to the input voltage of the devices you want to connect. On the other hand, you must compare them with the information present on the data sheet of the solar panel. Thus, when recharging, the portable panel must be fully compatible with electrical equipment.
The type
This is also a criterion to take into account when choosing. There are actually portable solar panels that are ideal for a nomadic use and bendable and flexible solar devices. The former can power tablets, cameras and smartphones. They then have one or more USB ports. The second can recharge other batteries or power laptops.
The different uses of portable solar panels
Portable solar panels are used for many purposes. They can also be used as auxiliary equipment in a home in the event of a power outage. Indeed, they make it possible to generate light and keep the refrigerator running.
They are perfect for camping, for a caravan or in a camping car. You can also organize your family events in the open air, because thanks to the foldable panels, you have the possibility of connecting your external devices. For example, you can connect an electric grill, a heating system, a greenhouse or a hot tub.
Solar panels can also be used to illuminate a patio or a playground. With these devices, you can run a fountain pump, birdbath, or Christmas decorations without using the home’s electrical system. Finally, some models of portable panels are designed for the yachting.
Portable solar panels: advantages and disadvantages
Portable solar panels have several benefitsbut also disadvantages. They are very easy to set up, as all you have to do is put them on the ground in a sunny place and let them charge. In addition, they are simple to use thanks to their assembly. They are also easy to transport (in a backpack or a briefcase).
In addition, you only have to clean your portable panels to remove any dust or dirt that could interfere with the proper capture of sunlight. Finally, from an environmental and economic point of view, they offer the same advantages as fixed solar panels. However, as disadvantages, we can note their very high cost and the limitation of weather situation (cloud, rain, snow, etc.).
