Solar energy solutions have rapidly increased for quite a time in Canada due to their numerous advantages. These practices help harness solar energy to generate sustainable, environmentally and budget-friendly electricity. However, there are extremes in Canadian weather, with snow in winters and hot summers, which may affect solar energy solutions.
Between these extremes, the homeowners wonder, is it worth buying a solar generator in Canada? Thanks to technology, you can efficiently create and store solar energy to power your home needs. To assist you further, here is everything about solar generators and more.
What is a Portable Solar Generator?
A portable solar generator is a compact system with solar panels that generate electricity and a backup system that stores the electricity produced from the solar panels. Simply put, they have batteries that store the energy created by solar panels to power you at home, outdoors, at night or in emergencies.
To understand it more, here's an example of how it works:
- The solar panels having solar cells installed at home or outdoors absorb the solar energy to create electricity.
- The energy solar panels create is directed toward the solar generators.
- They store electricity in Direct current (DC), converted to Alternating Current (AC) to power the appliances.
The generated energy can be used in the daytime with good electricity production. The battery component stores the surplus energy created by panels to power appliances at night, on cloudy days, or when the grid is not working. You can use this stored energy to power your appliances at any time. The solar generator stores the energy and lets you access clean, affordable and 24*7 access to power.
Advantages of Portable Solar Generators
Here are some advantages of portable solar generators:
They are portable: They are compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport for camping trips, outdoor events, and emergencies. For example, the BLUETTI AC200P + 3*PV200 Solar Generator Kit is just 60.6 lbs (27.5kg). This makes it best for carrying to any place for self-sufficient energy solutions.
Low carbon footprint: Solar generators harness the sun's energy, a renewable and clean source, which reduces your carbon footprint and reliance on non-renewable resources.
Quiet Operation: Solar generators have negligible operating noise. It provides a silent power source, unlike traditional generators' noise pollution.
Lower Operating Costs: Solar generators have minimal operating expenses. Once set up, sunlight is free, and maintenance needs are low.
Factors Consider Before Buying Solar Generator in Canada
Here are some important factors to consider:
Sun Conditions in Canada
The vast geography of Canada means there is a lot of variation in the climate and weather patterns. There can be icy winters and hot summers, too. The most important factors affecting solar panels' performance are the quality of sunlight and the number of sun hours.
Sunlight quality: The sunlight quality means the sun's rays. Solar panels can perform best in winter as the sunlight is high quality.
The sunlight hours: Canada experiences significant deviation in the number of sun hours, with southern regions having more than northern areas. For instance, parts of south Canada, like Ontario and British Columbia, receive substantial sunlight, making them fit for solar energy systems.
Also, the appropriate location for installation may greatly affect the solar panel's efficiency. Therefore, it's best to take advice from the professionals. The right elevation, tilt angle and location can help you maximize its potential.
Moreover, you should ensure regular inspection, cleanliness and care of the solar panels. The knowledge of power and energy needs at home, the right installation, etc., can make a difference.
Solar Generator Applications in Canada
Here are some top solar generator applications in Canada
Off-grid living: Many homes are going off-grid. It means no connection with the traditional grid for electricity. This means you have solar panels and generators to create, store and use the sun's energy. It signifies negligible bills and lots of benefits for Mother Earth.
Hybrid systems: Some homes have both connections (Off-grid and on-grid) as they have solar panels and a grid connection. The homeowner relies more on solar solutions and generators. But, if sometimes solar panels and solar generators exhaust, they can kick start grid connection.
Emergencies: In areas prone to power outages due to extreme weather, a solar generator can greatly help. It provides essential backup power for lighting, refrigeration, and charging devices.
Camping and Outdoor Activities: A portable solar generator can be a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. It helps to get a clean and sustainable power source for lights, gadgets, and small appliances while camping.
Current Solar Incentives
One of the major reasons why solar solutions are rising in Canada is due to various solar incentives. There are government programs which help to boost solar energy solutions. The reasons are energy efficiency, environmental friendliness and a lot more.
As of Sep 16, 2023, 32 residential solar incentive programs are currently available across Canada. This includes 16 solar rebates, 15 solar financing options, and one solar tax incentive for homeowners.
You can contact authorized professionals to know about the latest incentives. They will help you understand all your areas' rules, regulations, and eligibility. This can reduce your upfront costs significantly and help you welcome eco-friendly solar solutions at your home.
Is It Worth Buying a Solar Generator in Canada?
The answer to this question depends on the sunlight hours you receive. If you have a good 4 to 5 hours of sunlight, it's a worthy investment. Also, you can maximize the sunlight by installing the panels at the right locations, trimming branches to avoid shading and taking other steps.
If you can't rely on solar solutions completely, you can also be connected to a traditional grid. Luckily, solar generators have become very advanced so that you can draw maximum efficiency. So, contact the professionals, assess your area and then go for the most compatible solar generators.
BLUETTI Solar Generator Will Give You All Backup Support
To welcome a complete solar solution at your home or in outdoor events, you can trust BLUETTI. It offers the best energy solutions which are flexible, durable, and the best user experience.
For example, the BLUETTI AC200MAX + 3*PV200 Solar Generator Kit. BLUETTI AC200MAX has a 2,200W AC pure sine wave inverter with a 4,800W surge. Moreover, it offers a 2,048Wh battery capacity, which can be leveled up to 6,144Wh with 2×B230 or 8,192Wh with 2×B300 expansion packs.
It has 900W maximum solar input and 1300W maximum fast dual charging with Solar and AC Adapter. You can recharge it like (AC/Solar/Car/Generator/Lead Battery/Dual AC/AC+Solar). It also comes with over 16 output ports to charge multiple devices directly. Moreover, it comes with three 200W solar panels, which makes it a complete solar solution.
Another one in this range is BLUETTI EP500PRO + 3*PV200 | Solar Generator Kit. It has a 5100Wh battery capacity, which is incredible. It's a 3000W pure sine wave inverter that is movable. It can be recharged with AC and solar panels as you like.
With over 15 output ports, you can load many devices simultaneously. It also has three 200W solar panels, which makes it complete.
All BLUETTI energy solutions have a premium LiFePo4 battery, significant charge cycles, and a great monitoring system. So, welcome BLUETTI to revolutionize your energy needs. Moreover, easy installation, straightforward operation and reliability make it a valuable addition to the home.
How Do I Choose the Best Solar Generator for My Needs?
Here are some important factors to consider before selecting a solar generator in Canada:
Total sunlight hours: Canada's vast size means that the sunlight varies across regions. You should assess the sunlight hours in your area for all weather, then go for compatible solar panels and solar generators.
Calculate the Energy Needs: You should always check your utility bills and the Power needs of your appliances at home. Buying compatible power output energy panels and battery solutions is best. Solar generators are excellent for small to medium power requirements, such as charging devices, running lights, or powering essential appliances during emergencies.
Budget: The initial cost of a solar generator is high. However, all these costs are covered with low utility bills and convenience for years. Plus, you can apply for government incentives if you're eligible.
Battery Capacity: Solar generators have a battery capacity (Kwh, Wh), which can be expanded according to your needs. So, always check the battery capacity as it's a metric to know how long it can power your energy needs.
Check dimensions and weight: If you plan to use the generator for outdoor activities or camping, prioritize portability and a design that suits your lifestyle.
Study the brand: You should check the brand's warranty, online reviews, user experience, and more. It's best to do a good survey and choose competitive perks.
Final Thoughts
Solar generators in Canada can help you significantly revolutionize your energy needs. Assess the sunlight hours and go for the best solar generators. You can avail of incentives and experience low bills for years. Also, creating less carbon footprint means peace of mind and contribution to a bigger cause. So, check out all the above points and bring a solar generator home.