The use of sustainable energy is now an absolute necessity to curb the exploitation of fossil fuels. It is for this reason that solar panels have enjoyed great popularity in recent years. This equipment has also been modernized, and now exists in portable versions. It is therefore possible to use them in many outdoor settings, particularly during travel. What are the various elements that make portable solar panels special?
Their operating principle
Portable solar panels work almost like traditional models. They are based on the photovoltaic principle to generate electricity, using semiconductors. Thus, light is transformed into electric current. The quantity of the latter can be increased tenfold by increasing the number of portable solar panels. In general, kits sold commercially include:
- Solar cells: their purpose is to transform the light emitted by the sun into electric current;
- The charge controller: it protects the devices connected to the kit against the risk of overloading between various components;
- The battery: it conserves the electrical energy produced by the solar panels. This solar battery is also used to recharge various devices;
- The inverter: it transforms the direct current stored in the battery into alternating current. The latter can thus power the majority of electrical devices.
Portable solar panels have a cable, which allows them to be connected to various devices. Electricity is regulated by the charge controller, which ensures more efficient charging. Before purchasing a kit, make sure you find out more about the different solar panels offered. This will allow you to verify that they are capable of covering your electrical needs.
Additionally, these portable solar kits can charge equipment directly or indirectly. With direct charging, you simply connect your devices to solar panels without a battery. The presence of a solar charger is then necessary in this case. Indirect charging implies that the electrical energy produced is retained and used subsequently to recharge:
- Cameras;
- Camping lamps;
- Smartphones;
- Tablets;
- Etc.
How to use portable solar panels?
The particularity of portable solar kits is their ability to meet a variety of needs depending on the users. Indeed, the panels offered by the brands have different capacities and structures. Some are flexible or equipped with special clamps. You could then use these portable solar panels to:
Charging small devices while traveling
Portable solar kits typically include:
- Solar cells;
- A battery ;
- Lamps.
Depending on the brand, some portable solar panels charge their battery with energy supplied by the network. Their operation therefore does not depend exclusively on solar energy. Additionally, these devices come with USB ports which reduce the range of devices you could charge. Some advanced portable solar devices have a display screen that provides:
- The power ;
- Wireless charging capability.
When the power goes out or is unavailable, you will be glad you chose such options.
Go camping or travel in a van
Portable solar panels provide enough power, which you can harness while traveling. This will be of great use to you during a campsite in the wilderness, or a trip in a campervan for example. Some devices are set to work as portable solar generators. It is possible to rely on them, when electric current is unavailable in an area.
Surviving a disaster or dealing with an emergency
Having a portable solar panel can be a serious asset when you are:
- In an urgent situation;
- Faced with a natural disaster.
In fact, it will allow you to produce electricity in these conditions, where other sources are unavailable. You could thus recharge smartphones and various useful devices so as not to be completely disconnected.
The advantages of portable solar panels
Considering the elements mentioned above, you certainly understand that portable solar panels have multiple advantages. The first thing that stands out is their convenience, and the ease with which they can be worn. This allows this equipment to be used in many settings such as:
- Hiking ;
- Travel;
- Camping ;
- Etc.
Thus, these portable solar panels are positioned as a source of energy that can be used outdoors. They prevent you from relying on other forms of polluting generators. The ease of transport of portable solar kits is a point that also appeals to users. These accessories are durable enough not to fear the various constraints to which you will expose them. Plus, you don't need to have a power outlet nearby to use it.
Depending on the space you have outdoors, the portable solar panel can adapt to it. Some models are flexible, which allows them to be oriented in the right direction to capture the sun's rays. They will also be suitable for people who want to test solar energy, before adopting a classic solar installation for example. This is also why many brands have increased the performance of their solar kits.
These devices are now more efficient in producing solar energy, and their costs are very affordable. You would be surprised to know that they are less expensive than a home solar device. Everyone can benefit from the benefits of solar energy without necessarily having a large budget. You don't even need to own a home to get a portable solar kit. The latter can also be placed on your motorhome in order to gain autonomy during travel.
How much should you budget for purchasing a portable solar kit?
Portable solar panels should be purchased considering various parameters such as:
- Their size;
- Their quality;
- Their characteristics.
Allow an amount between 400 and 750 euros to purchase equipment of around 200 Watts. Obviously, the most sophisticated models are sold more expensively by manufacturers. They are then around 1000 euros. To obtain greater power, series mounting of solar panels is possible. This highlights the need to carefully assess your needs before purchasing portable solar panels. You will then know the exact number to acquire, and the power
