Camping Solar Setup in Australia [Detailed Explained]

Lifestyle ·November 2, 2023

Camping Solar Setup in Australia [Detailed Explained]

In contrast to transporting a sizable, cumbersome generator during travels, harnessing solar energy to generate free energy is a dependable and environmentally friendly alternative. Australia has ample sunlight, and contemporary developments in solar power technology have transformed it into a highly portable, efficient, and effective off-road power generation method.

Suppose you are a beginner to this concept or are just beginning to contemplate a solar setup for camping. In that case, however, selecting the most suitable solar solution can take time and effort.

This page provides comprehensive information on camping solar setups in Australia, including its benefits, components, and how to set up a solar system for your camping. Jackery is dedicated to providing camping equipment with dependable, high-quality solar power supplies. Choosing a Jackery Solar Generator, which combines a portable power station and solar panels, would be best to power all your camping appliances with lithium-ion batteries, pure sine wave inverters, and MPPT charge controllers.

Key Takeaways:

Camping solar setups have many benefits, such as portability, sustainability, renewable energy, and enhancing your camping experience.
There are several components for a camping solar setup, including solar panels, batteries, a charge controller, and an inverter. They are explained thoroughly in the following part.
Here, list two examples of camping solar setups - basic and advanced. Compared to DIY solar setups, you can choose a Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro or 1000 Pro for your camping.
When sizing your camping solar setup, you must decide the power consumption by Amps or Amps-hours.

Why You Need Camping Solar Setup in Australia?

Camping is an enriching activity. Nevertheless, the ability to utilize camping solar systems to generate renewable energy is among the most significant advantages of camping. The primary benefits of camping solar setups are:

Portability: Camping solar setup provides a convenient way to power lights and other electronics while camping. Their portability and storage convenience are facilitated by their lightweight and small size when not in use. They are virtually place-resistant and require no additional installation to function outdoors.

Sustainability: Camping solar setup harnesses solar energy and transforms it into usable electricity, eliminating the need for grid-supplied power. It is an eco-friendly and energy-efficient method of illuminating your campsite at night. This not only diminishes emissions but also diminishes dependence on conventional fuel sources.

Renewable Energy: Camping solar kits is a great way to enjoy the outdoors using renewable energy sources. Solar panels are a renewable and efficient way to generate energy. Unlike fossil fuels, solar power is non-polluting, accessible, and does not contribute to global warming.

Smoothing Camping Experience: Camping solar setups are becoming increasingly popular for individuals who want to appreciate nature and the great outdoors. Solar panels are a sustainable and effective method of producing energy. In contrast to fuels, solar energy is free, non-polluting, and does not contribute to global warming.

What Are The Components of A Camping Solar Setup?

Solar power is generated through the conversion of solar energy into electrical energy. It has been used as a clean, cost-effective alternative power source for camping. Therefore, a camping solar setup includes:

Solar Panels

Battery

Charge Controller or Regulator

Power Inverter or 12V socket

Camping Solar Setup: Solar Panels

Before delving into the specifics, let's examine the various varieties of solar panels that can be installed on a camping solar setup. Diverse types of solar panels fulfill distinct functions and objectives. The fact that sunlight can be utilized differently in space compared to Earth indicates that location is a significant determinant in determining which form of solar panels to implement.

At present, portable solar products predominantly employ polycrystalline and monocrystalline cell structures. Amorphous or thin film, the third form, is rarely observed and is considerably less common than the first two.

Monocrystalline Solar Panel: Monocrystalline cells are formed from a single silicon crystal grown into a block before slicing into wafers. Electrons can traverse the panel with greater ease due to the single-crystal structure of the cell, which substantially improves its efficacy. This form of solar cell is utilized in Jackery Solar Panels to increase power conversion efficiency by absorbing more sunlight.

Polycrystalline Solar Panel: Polycrystalline solar cells, like monocrystalline solar cells, are built of silicon crystals. The distinction is that the silicon crystal cools and fragments independently rather than being extruded as a single pure ingot. Although these solar panels are less expensive than monocrystalline panels, they absorb and produce less electricity.

Thin-Film Solar Panel: If you seek a more cost-effective alternative, consider thin-film. The fabrication process of thin-film solar panels involves the deposition of one or more films of photovoltaic material onto a substrate. Producing these solar panels is a straightforward process, and the economies of scale resulting from the reduced material requirements render them more cost-effective than alternative options.

Monocrystalline

Polycrystalline

Thin-Film

Efficiency Rate

20%+

15%

7-10%

Pros

- High-efficiency rate

- Longer lifespan

- High resistance

- Warranty

- Lower price

- Low costs

- Easy to produce

Cons

- Expensive

- Shorter lifespan

- Less space efficiency

- Lower temperature range

- Shorter lifespan

- Lower quality

- Shorter warranties

How Do Solar Panels Work in A Camping Solar Setup?

In essence, a solar panel permits photons light particles, to liberate electrons from atoms, producing an electric current. Solar panels consist of numerous, more compact components known as photovoltaic cells, responsible for transforming sunlight into electrical energy. An array of interconnected cells constitutes a solar panel.

how solar panel works in a camping solar setup

Moreover, every photovoltaic cell consists of two slabs of semiconducting material, which form a sandwich. Photovoltaic cells are typically constructed from silicon, also employed in microelectronics. Photovoltaic cells necessitate the presence of an electric field. Similar to how a magnetic field is generated by separating opposite poles, an electric field is produced by separating opposite charges.

Camping Solar Setup: Battery

Typically, four primary varieties of solar batteries are utilized in camping solar setups: lithium-ion, lead acid, flow, and flow. Each battery form has unique advantages and is suitable for a fantastic set of circumstances.

Lithium-ion Battery: It utilizes more recent technology than alternative options and is gaining popularity for most solar systems. Lead-acid batteries have a lower discharge capacity than lithium-ion batteries. Up to 80% of their storage capacity may be discharged without compromising longevity. Specific models can release their entire ability without injury, which aids in energy conservation and storage.

Consequently, numerous renowned solar brands, including Jackery, utilize this battery to maximize solar energy utilization. The Jackery Portable Power Stations guarantee a more secure and convenient operating experience by using lithium-ion batteries to store more energy.

Lead-Acid Battery: AGM batteries, lead-acid batteries, have the most extensive track record within the photovoltaic industry. These batteries are highly prevalent due to their affordability and dependability. There are two varieties of lead acid batteries: hermetic and flooded.

As water-based batteries, flooded lead-acid batteries necessitate routine maintenance, including the addition of distilled water. Lead-acid batteries that are sealed require no maintenance. However, their energy density is minimal, so they do not contain much energy.

Flow Battery: Additionally, flow batteries are a developing technology. Electrolytes containing water are circulated between two internal chambers or tanks. Batteries are charged and discharged via internal chemical reactions. The addition of additional containers has the potential to augment the overall capacity of solar energy storage. However, they are expensive and unsuitable for specific camping solar setups.

Lithium-Ion Battery

Lead-Acid Battery

Flow Battery

Efficiency Rate

80-100%

50%

100%

Efficiency

Higher

Lower

Higher

Lifespan

Higher

Lower

Higher

Power Density

Higher

Lower

Capacity

Higher

Lower

Higher

Costs

Higher

Lower

Higher

How Do Lithium-ion Batteries Work in A Camping Solar Setup?

A lithium-ion battery is composed of the following components: the anode, cathode, separator, current collector, and electrolyte. A connection is established between the terminals of the cell and conductive foils at each electrode of the battery. Through the cell terminals, an electric current flows between the apparatus, the battery, and the power source that supplies the battery.

how lithium battery works in a camping solar setup

Within a lithium-ion battery, lithium ions (Li+) endure internal movement between the anode and cathode. Electrons undergo a reversal of direction transitions in an external circuit. The device is powered by the electrical current produced by this migration. The battery, therefore, supplies electricity.

The discharge of lithium ions from the anode to the cathode generates an electric current that facilitates the functioning of the associated device. An opposite effect occurs when lithium ions are transferred from the cathode to the anode during the battery charging.

Camping Solar Setup: Solar Charge Controller

By modulating the voltage and current from the solar panel to the battery, a solar charge controller, also known as a solar regulator, prevents the battery from overcharging in a camping solar setup.

A charge controller or regulator is a voltage and current regulator to prevent batteries from overcharging. It regulates the current and voltage flow from the solar panels to the battery. Most "12 volt" panels produce between 16 and 20 volts; therefore, in the absence of regulation, overcharging will damage the batteries. The majority of batteries require between 14.3 and 14.5 volts to completely charge.

PWM and MPPT charge controllers are the two primary varieties of solar charge controllers in camping solar setups.

MPPT Charge Controller: These controllers function admirably with larger RV or vacation solar systems. These controllers offer 10 to 30 percent more power to the battery and have efficiencies ranging from 94% to 98%; as a result, they can save a substantial amount of money on larger systems despite having comparable prices and efficiencies. Overvoltage and overcharging are avoided by the MPPT charge controller utilized by the Jackery Portable Power Station.

PWM Charge Controller: These controllers are best suited for small camping solar setups with only a few solar panels and a battery.PWM charge controllers cost less and are less efficient than MPPT charge controllers.

MPPT Controller

PWM Controller

Panel Voltage

Higher than battery voltage

Equal to battery voltage

Battery Voltage

Above battery voltage

At battery voltage

Setup Size

Large or medium camping size

Small camping size

Sizing Methods

In Watts

In Amps

How Does A Charge Controller Work in A Camping Solar Setup?

Comprehending the operation of a solar charge controller may prove difficult; however, at its most fundamental level, it serves as an intermediary between the solar panel and the battery within the context of a camping solar setup. Solar panels may occasionally receive more power than the accompanying battery can store, potentially leading to a hazardous circumstance.

The feature of the solar charge controller is to regulate the energy transfer from the solar panel to the battery and vice versa. Its purpose is to prevent the power from surpassing the battery's capacity and to mitigate energy wastage.

how charge controller works in a camping solar setup

The solar charge controller accomplishes this by continuously calculating the maximum amount of additional energy the connected battery can securely store while measuring the battery's voltage. Occasionally, power may also traverse from the battery to the solar panel, given that electrical current invariably descends from higher to lower voltage.

Camping Solar Setup: Inverter

A solar inverter is one of the most critical components of a camping solar setup. A solar inverter converts the solar energy produced by solar panels into usable electricity for use in a residence or place of business.

The primary function of solar inverters is to convert DC power to AC power. Additionally, they serve as the principal link connecting the panels to the electrical distribution panel within a camping environment. Two varieties of inverters exist:

Pure Sine Wave Inverter: The voltage output of pure sine wave inverters consists of sine waves. Additionally, utilities deliver sine wave output. Because of this, grid-connected systems must always utilize pure sine wave inverters. Pure sine wave inverters are generally required for sensitive equipment.

Modified Sine Wave Inverter: The AC power generated by pure sine wave inverters resembles a sine wave. When modified sine wave inverters are utilized, the polarity changes abruptly from positive to negative. Upon observation, the wave exhibits a square, stair-step pattern in which the polarity alternates.

Inverter

Pure Sine Wave Inverter

Modified Sine Wave Inverter

Waveform

Smooth

Stepped

Efficiency

High

Low

Noise Level

Low

High

Solar Panel Compatibility

High

Low

Appliances Compatibility

High

Low

How Does An Inverter Work in A Camping Solar Setup?

The variable direct current ('DC') output generated by solar panels is converted to a solar inverter's alternating 120V/240V current ('AC'). AC, not DC, is utilized by the appliances in your home; therefore, the solar inverter must convert the DC output collected by your solar panels.

how inverter works in a camping solar setup

Solar energy is transmitted directly to an inverter or stored in a battery for later use. The point is sent to the inverter in DC format, whereas AC is required for camping. The energy is converted from a DC output by a transformer powered by the inverter.

Basic and Advanced Camping Solar Setups

Solar energy is indispensable for a comfortable camping experience, especially when you are assisting the environment by using it to power your campsite in a clean and environmentally friendly manner!

The key to a basic solar setup for camping is to employ energy-efficient solar panels and a high-quality deep cycle battery and battery box, if necessary. After that, the solar panels are exposed to the sun and connected to the deep-cycle battery system.

Mounted solar panels are available for installation on the roof of a motorhome or caravan. For camping, others favor a folding portable solar panel system enabling them to "chase the sun" using a cable returning to the battery case and configuration. Connecting your panels to an appropriate AGM battery and using it with a 12V socket allows you to power 240V appliances like your refrigerator and mobile phone.

Mounted or folding solar panels

AGM lead-acid battery

12V socket

Solar regulator

The following are the more advanced solar setups for camping. These are durable solar panel installations designed for extended road trips or when your camping solar requirements are more substantial. Wattage-wise, the pure sine wave inverter capacity most suitable for the intended appliances will determine their dimensions.

Solar panels

Lithium-ion battery

Pure sine wave inverter

MPPT charge controller or built-in regulator

Jackery Solar Generators for Camping

As stated, a sophisticated camping solar setup comprises only the highest quality and most potent components, including a lithium-ion battery, pure sine wave inverter, and MPPT regulator.

Likewise, Jackery Portable Power Stations incorporate these elements to construct a superior solar power station, which is then connected to Jackery Monocrystalline Solar Panels to maximize solar energy utilization.

Jackery is an internationally recognized manufacturer of premium solar products. Jackery Portable Power Stations supply camping electronics with a consistent and dependable power supply via lithium batteries.

Numerous methods exist for recharging a portable power station. For example, one can harness solar energy by connecting the portable power station to solar panels through wires and connectors. Additionally, recharging is possible via a carport or AC adapter. The pass-through function enables the power station and the appliances to be charged at the same time.

Solar Generator 2000 Pro

Solar Generator 1000 Pro

Image

Capacity

2160Wh

1002Wh

Dimension

38.4x26.9x30.75cm

34x26.2x25.5cm

Cycle Life

1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Temperature

Charging Temperature: 0-40°C (32-104°F) Discharge Temperature: -10-40°C (14-104°F)

Recharging Methods

Solar Charging: 5.5H

AC Charging: 2H

12V Car Charging: 24H

Solar Charging: 7H

AC Charging: 1.8H

12V Car Charging: 12H

Outputs

2*AC Output: 230V, 2200W (peak 4400W); 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0x2, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

2*AC Output: 230V, 1000W, peak 2000W; 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0x2, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

Working Hours

Microwave(700W): 2.4H

Kettle(850W): 2H

Coffee Maker(500W): 3.4H

Light(25W): 67.4H

TV(60W): 28.1H

Mini Fridge(400W): 4.2H

Microwave(700W): 1.1H

Kettle(850W): 0.9H

Coffee Maker(500W): 1.6H

Light(25W): 32.1H

TV(60W): 13.4H

Mini Fridge(400W): 2H

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro can power seven devices concurrently, with a 2160Wh battery capacity and 2200W output power. It is excellent for powering camping essentials such as the grill, refrigerator, and more. It can power a 700W microwave for 2.4 hours and an 800W grill for 2.2 hours, for instance.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro

View Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Portable Power Stationo👉

The Solar Generator 2000 Pro has a substantial charging capacity of 2,160Wh and can be ultimately charged in under 5.5 hours using 6* SolarSaga 100W solar panels or in 2 hours using an AC wall receptacle. Two processors for dual battery protection and four temperature core detectors are housed in the premium lithium battery, ensuring the ideal combination of secure and dependable charging. They are elevating safety to an unprecedented degree.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro portable power station has a ten-year lifespan, assuming it is utilized twice weekly. With a 100% capacity, it can remain dormant for more than a year, rendering it an exceptionally reliable camping power source.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

The 1000W output power of the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro is accompanied by a 1002Wh capacity. An entire wall charge requires 1.8 hours and can withstand 1000 charge cycles. The electricity generation efficiency increased by 25%, paired with 2*SolarSaga 80W solar panels. It is also an option that is affordable.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro

View Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro Portable Power Station👉

The foldable handle facilitates storage and transportation. This compact power source is ideal for camping excursions by boasting a lightweight construction and a one-thousand-charge cycle life. A pure sine wave inverter protects your equipment with consistent power. A battery management system (BMS) is incorporated into this ultra-quiet (46dB) product to monitor and safeguard battery life. The three-level LED illumination assists in meeting your outdoor requirements.

With its multiple ports—2*1000W AC output ports, 2*USB A, and a DC vehicle port—the Explorer 1000 Pro power station can power 93% of your camping equipment, including a portable fan, camping light, and movie projector. It can power a 20W camping light for 40.1 hours and a 300W portable cooler for 2.7 hours, to give some examples.

How Big of A Camping Solar Setup Will You Need?

Estimating anticipated energy consumption is advisable before deciding the size of the camping solar setup; you'll need to meet power demands. It should be noted that these figures are subject to significant variation between campsites and should only be considered as estimates.

To ascertain the daily power demands for camping, tally the power consumption of every appliance that you plan to operate. This value should be expressed in amps so that it is easier to total up all the applications. The amp figure found in the specifications of most appliances can be multiplied by the number of hours per day that the device will be in use to estimate power consumption.

Ah (Total Power Usage Per Day) = Amps x Hours ( Hours Used Per Day)

If the specifications do not include an amp value, you can approximate it by dividing the watts by the volts. Remember that this figure does not account for system losses, inefficiencies, or imperfect conditions.

Amps (For 1 Hour) = Watts / Volts

Then, using the first formula, estimate overall power use. Once you've completed this for all appliances, add the totals to get the total power usage for your entire campsite for one day.

Final Thoughts

The realm of solar energy has significantly expanded the possibilities for comfortable camping. High-quality solar and battery systems ensure that even 240V appliances operate without interruption. Alas, solar energy is a camping-related subject that is frequently overly complicated. This page explains everything about the solar setup for camping. A Jackery Solar Generator featuring monocrystalline folding solar panels, a superior lithium-ion battery, an MPPT charge controller, and a pure sine wave inverter is the best alternative power option for camping.