The Solar Stik Generator

The Solar Stik provides a relatively lightweight and portable energy solution that competes with gasoline powered generators both in terms of performance and long term cost. It goes beyond being a simple power generator, with a range of accessories that allow it to be adapted to virtually any situation.

Portability

The core of the system is the Solar Stik itself. This is a three-part unit that comprises of a central aluminium and stainless steel mounting pole and two 50-watt BP crystalline solar panels. Each of these components weighs approximately 20 pounds, or just under 10 kilograms. That weight is certainly manageable for most people, and the system is designed to be set up and operating within five minutes.

The battery pack is somewhat heavier. There are two options. The smaller pack can hold a charge of 50 amp-hours and weighs 48 pounds (22 kilograms). The larger and more expensive version carries a maximum reserve charge of 100 amp hours and weighs 95 pounds (44 kilos). The battery is optional but if the system is intended for mobile use it will definitely be required.

Efficiency

The great advantage of this system is the way it is able to harvest the maximum amount of energy from sunlight throughout the day. The solar panels are standard BP units. It is the mounting pole that sets this system apart from other solar arrays and generators. Each panel is mounted to the pole with a triple-axis mounting system that allows them to be easily rotated to face any direction on any angle. This allows the panels to be manually adjusted to directly face the sun and therefore generate maximum power for the majority of the day. This compares well against fixed panels like those traditionally mounted on rooves, which will only generate maximum power for at most four hours each day.

Warranty

The solar panels come with a 25 year power output warranty, which is standard for this type of BP panel. The battery pack is built using high quality components and should last for over 600 full charge and re-charge cycles. Due to the extreme variability of conditions in which this pack can be used the warranty is limited to three years. Misuse of the battery pack will void its warranty.

The central metal pole and panel mounts have a 5 year materials and workmanship warranty which is reasonable given that is has been designed for rugged use both on land and at sea.

Extending The System

There are a range of options available for the Solar Stik system. These include mounts for boats, an option for a wind turbine to be mounted on top of the pole for extra power generation, an adaptor to allow the batteries to be charged by mains electricity, and more. It is also possible to join more than one Stik together to increase electricity output.

Summary

Starting at around the $3600 USD mark for just the Stik and panels, and ranging over $8500 USD for a full system with all the extras this system sounds alarmingly expensive. However it compares favourably with other so-called "portable" solar generators such as the PowerCube as it is far easier to set up and the components have superior warranty. It also compares favourably with long term running costs when compared to a standard gasoline generator, so overall it looks like a sound investment.