Building This Solar Powered Generator Was Simpler Than I Thought

  • While I believe every home needs a generator that can power the large items often times we need one that can power the smaller items as well. Sometimes, a smaller, quieter, less obnoxious alternative to charging cell phones or power a radio, is not only preferred, but it could be critical, depending on your situation. These are also great to take camping.

    This was my first foray into solar power, and I wanted to share this with you to show how easy it can be done, and why you shouldn’t be afraid to get your hands dirty with solar power.

    My Requirements

    First up I made a list of my requirements;

    1.    Has to be portable – large deep cycle batteries were out unless I wanted to drag a trolly with me and that would pose a problem fitting it into the car.

    2.    Has to power anything that requires a USB and/or DC connection – I didn’t need to power any A/C appliances such as a refrigerator or a television.

    3.    Should look inconspicuous and not out of place in a home, car or tent – this project was also for post SHTF moments and I wanted to have it to hand without guests asking questions.

    Here is what I came up with – the finished product.

    My discrete Portable Solar Generator – using a simple toolbox!

    What follows is a list of materials and tools used to construct. (note – all of the products were purchased via Ebay UK, the same or similar can be had from Ebay.com)

    Materials List
    •    4x Power Sonic 12v 7ah Deep Cycle Batteries
    •    36x A Grade Solar Cells (inc Flux Pen, Tabbing Wire & Bus Wire)
    •    20″ Tool Box
    •    Hella Socket & Plug
    •    12v DC Socket
    •    12 AWG Wire Black (2m)
    •    12 AWG Wire Red (2m)
    •    Inline Fuse Holder
    •    10amp PWM Charge Controller
    •    Digital Watt Meter (Battery Power Analyser)
    •    100x Male & Female Spade Connectors
    •    4m 5mm Wide Bus Wire
    •    8m Tabbing Wire
    •    2x Blue LED Rocker Switch
    •    2x Red Rocker Switch
    •    Chocolate Block Connector
    •    2.4w 12v Trickle Charger

    Keeping a cell phone charged when the power has gone out, or when you are out in the wild, for instance, is a critical need. This awesome solar paneled generator is perfect for those types of situations.

    For more information on taking the materials above and constructing the generator, visit Prepperzine.



    3 Comments

    1. Dave said:

      Look up SOLAR BURRITO on Youtube. I have built 3 of them and they are just as easy.

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