The PowerCube Solar Powered Generator
The Powercube solar powered generator competes with fuel powered generators and seeks to provide a solar alternative that is viable as a mains supply backup system. As such the unit uses three large solar panels which charge an array of six deep cycle lead acid batteries that hold the charge generated by the panels. The manufacturers provide the option for the installation of a second series of 6 batteries that doubles the charge holding capacity of the unit. Quality Components? The batteries are charged via a high quality pure sine wave inverter which is indicative of the quality of the unit's components in general. While the batteries hold a reasonable amount of charge (2400 Amp Hours), the current generating capacity of the panels is only 600 watts. Given that the smallest available home installation of solar panels in Australia is over 1000 watts, this system is unlikely to be able to power your home unless you join multiple units together.
One unit will cost you in excess of $20,000 US. For the price tag given, a one year warranty on the case seems somewhat limited. Even the parts that have longer warranty such as the charge controller need to be able to be counted upon for much longer than the maximum five years assured by the manufacturer. The same amount of money could be spent on a comprehensive grid-tie system for a home with enough change left over for a fuel powered generator or even an individual solar panel or two for emergency use.
The lack of portability of this solar powered generator is also an issue. The pictures provided show the unit being put in place with a fork lift as it is impossible to carry due to the weight. The availability of a fork lift in emergency conditions cannot be relied upon, which means the unit needs to be permanently in place or mounted on rollers and located a short distance from where it will be deployed.Summary This unit is the first serious commercial attempt to replace fuel powered electricity generation with a complete, independent solar alternative. However the excessive price, limited warranty and even more limited mobility of this solar generator place it beyond the reach of most and do not offer sufficient cause for investment in what is surely an early stage of solar powered generator technology.
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