Confused about power stations, inverters, and solar backups? Here’s what you actually need.
☀️ What Is a Solar Generator, Really?
You’ve probably seen ads or Amazon listings for “solar generators” — but what are they? Are they just portable batteries? Do they actually generate power?
Let’s clear it up.
A solar generator is a portable power station that stores electricity and can be recharged using solar panels (or a wall socket). It doesn’t burn fuel like a petrol generator — it’s quiet, clean, and ideal for small appliances, blackouts/power cuts, or off-grid use.
In short:
- It stores electricity in a battery
- It includes an inverter to power standard plug sockets
- It can be charged via solar panels or mains power
⚡️ Solar Generator vs Power Bank vs Inverter — What’s the Difference?
| Device | What It Does | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Power Bank | Charges USB devices only | Phones, tablets |
| Inverter | Converts DC to AC power (needs external battery) | Vans, solar installs |
| Solar Generator | All-in-one: battery + inverter + solar charging capability | Home backup, camping, blackouts |
Think of a solar generator as a power bank on steroids — it has AC outlets, more capacity, and the ability to stay topped up with solar panels.
⚙️ Converts DC to AC Power:
In simple terms, an inverter lets you use battery power on things like TVs and fridges.
Batteries store electricity as DC (direct current) power, but your appliances — like your TV, fridge, router, and laptop charger — all run on AC (alternating current) power from your wall sockets.
So when you purchase a solar generator, it stores energy as DC power (in the battery), and then outputs it as AC power (just like your wall sockets). You can recharge it using solar panels or simply plug it into your wall to top it up.
💡 Pro Tip:
If your electricity provider uses day/night rates, charge your solar generator during off-peak hours and use it during peak times — a clever way to cut your energy bills.
🇮🇪 Is a Solar Generator Worth It in Ireland?
Yes — especially as Ireland faces rising energy prices, grid instability during storms, and a growing interest in off-grid setups.
Solar generators are ideal for:
- Saving Money (Charge off peak / Use on peak)
- Short blackouts (keep Wi-Fi, fridge, and lights on)
- Outdoor use (sheds, campervans, allotments)
- Reducing reliance on the grid
And yes — they still work in Ireland’s weather. Even on cloudy days, solar panels still collect light, and the generator stores it for use whenever needed.
🔋 What Can a Solar Generator Power?
Budget option. Minimal get out of jail for a power cut
| Device | Power Draw | Runtime on 300Wh Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Router | 10W | 20–40Wh |
| Small LED TV | 60–80W | 120–320Wh |
| LED Light Bulb | 5W | 10–20Wh |
| Phone Charging | 10W | 10–20Wh |
| Estimated Total | ~200–300Wh (Enough for 2–4 hours of TV, Wi-Fi, and lights) | |
💰 Pricing Summary for Low-Spec Systems
A typical 300Wh generator costs between €250–€350. If you add a solar panel bundle, expect to pay around €400–€600.
Mid spec option for more peace of mind and home workers
| Device | Power Draw | Runtime on 1000Wh Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Router | 10W | 3–4 days |
| LED TV (32–40″) | 60–80W | 10–14 hours |
| Laptop / PC | 80–120W | 8–10 hours |
| Mini Fridge | 100W | 8–10 hours |
| LED Light Bulb | 5W | 80–100 hours |
| Estimated Total | ~800–1000Wh used (sufficient for a home office + basic appliances for 6–12 hours) | |
💰 Pricing Summary for Mid-Spec Systems
A typical 1000Wh generator costs between €800–€1,300. If bundled with solar panels, expect to pay around €1,200–€1,800.
High spec option for more robust solutions.
| Device | Power Draw | Runtime on 2000–3000Wh Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Router | 10W | 7–12 days |
| LED TV (40”) | 80W | 25–35 hours |
| PC + Monitor | 120–150W | 15–20 hours |
| Fridge (energy efficient) | 100–150W avg | 12–20 hours |
| Microwave (brief use) | 800–1000W | ~2 hours total use |
| Estimated Total | 2000–3000Wh covers most of your household essentials for 1–2 full days or stretches specific devices for multiple days | |
💰 Pricing Summary for High-Spec Systems
A typical 2000–3000Wh generator costs between €1,800–€3,000. With solar panels included, expect prices of €2,400–€4,000 depending on battery capacity and panel size.
