How to Build A Solar-Powered Greenhouse With Solar Generator?

Greenhouses capture the sunlight and retain warmth inside them - all to provide a relatively favorable environment than the outside one for plant growth. A typical greenhouse uses between one to two kilowatt hours of electricity per square foot of floor on an annual basis.

The solar-powered greenhouse offers an alternative way of powering the lighting and heating systems of the greenhouse. Not only is it more cost-effective and energy-efficient, but it is also more environmentally friendly.

In this inclusive article, you will learn about what a solar-powered greenhouse is, how it works, and in what ways it is different from a passive solar greenhouse. This article will also provide some top recommendations for the best greenhouse solar generator.

What is A Solar-Powered Greenhouse?

A greenhouse is a glass structure used for plant growth in extreme weather conditions. A greenhouse can modulate its temperature by absorbing light without complex and energy-intensive heating systems. It helps grow plants that need a controlled temperature.

A solar-powered greenhouse is a structure with solar panels installed on it. These panels collect the sun’s energy and transform it into heat. A solar-powered greenhouse provides a conducive environment for the growth of plants even in the worst climatic conditions.

Without a doubt, the sun provides all greenhouses with the light they need for photosynthesis. But, a solar greenhouse with panels on the roof can help plants in the process of photosynthesis.

How Does A Solar Powered Greenhouse Work?

A solar-powered greenhouse has large windows which are facing the South. The Northside comprises black stone blocks that help absorb and retain sunlight. 

If stated in simple words, Solar greenhouses are glass-oriented. Natural ventilation reduces the heat in the summertime, while in the winter, it helps minimize energy loss.

Its longitudinal axis is oriented to stretch from East to West. The North-facing wall is well-insulated to prevent any heat loss, while the South-facing wall is glazed to absorb as much sunlight as possible.

Tips for Building A Solar Powered Greenhouse

While an attractive option, adding solar panels to a greenhouse requires you to consider a lot of things mindfully. Here are four essential tips for building a solar-powered greenhouse:

Designing Your Solar-Powered Greenhouse

First comes the design. Start by looking for ideal locations for solar panels. These locations should be ones that receive the most sunlight possible during the day. Slopes or roofs facing the roof are usually perfect choices for this thing.

Choosing the appropriate glazing materials is also crucial. Invest in highly efficient glazing material that lets in some light but still keeps out enough cold. Most people go for polycarbonate panels or double-paned glass. These materials, being transparent and able to retain heat, provide an ideal environment for plants to grow.

Assessing Your Solar-Powered Greenhouse Needs

Every one of us knows that different plants require varying amounts of light. While some flourish in direct sunlight, others do the better with filtered or partial sunlight. That is the reason you must be aware of the light needs of the plants you desire to grow.

Also, don’t undermine the local climatic conditions when planning your solar-powered greenhouse. If you live in a colder region, add more insulation to keep the heat inside the structure. Conversely, in hot climates, ensure your greenhouse has a good ventilation system that stops it from getting too hot.

Choosing the Right Solar Generator

Next is the selection of an appropriate solar generator for your greenhouse - it is essential for the best growth of plants. Below are the factors to consider:

• Power Output: Calculate the total energy demand of your gardening tools and other running equipment. Remember, different equipment is used at different parts of the day. So, to figure out the required power output, add the power needs of all equipment and then use a power factor to reach a realistic power usage.

• Battery Capacity: Select a generator with high battery capacity. This way, you can store more solar energy, ensuring a stable supply even during cloudy days.

• Easy to Move: You may have to move your solar generator frequently. So, choose one that is lightweight and easy to move. 

Connecting the Solar Generator 

Connecting the solar generator is the last step in building a solar-powered greenhouse. Also, consider implementing a monitoring system if you want to get the most out of your solar-powered greenhouse. With this system, you can keep track of your energy production, identify problems (if any), and resolve the issues before it gets too late.

Passive Solar Greenhouse vs. Solar Powered Greenhouse

The term “passive solar design refers to construction practices that maximize the gain of solar energy and cut down heat loss. Yes, this name is less known - people have simply called it a solar greenhouse since the 1970s.

On the other hand, a solar-powered greenhouse generates electricity using photovoltaic panels. This electricity is then used for heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. While it comes with more control over environmental conditions, it also has high upfront costs.

While both offer the optimal growing environment and help regulate temperature, they are different in various ways. Below is a comparison between a passive solar greenhouse and a solar-powered greenhouse.

Benefits of A Solar-Powered Greenhouse

Solar-powered greenhouses have numerous benefits for both the farmers and the agricultural industry. Some of these benefits are:

Sustainable Agriculture

Solar-powered greenhouses use renewable energy and don’t emit any greenhouse fumes. By reducing the carbon footprint of agricultural methods and conserving resources like water, they help advance sustainable agriculture.

Extended Growing Season

Solar-powered greenhouses extend the growing season for plants since they keep the temperature and lighting steady. They enable farmers to cultivate crops all year long.

Cost Savings in the Long Term

Building a solar-powered greenhouse may seem expensive at first glance. Yet, it is cost-effective in the long run. Since the sun’s energy is free, you won’t need to worry about high energy or fuel costs and potential energy price hikes. 

Noise-free and Low Maintenance

Unlike greenhouses that use fossil fuels, solar-powered greenhouses work in silence and don’t contribute to noise pollution. Also, their solar systems are incredibly efficient and require minimal repairs.

How Much Solar Power Does A Greenhouse Need?

For this, you will have to consider factors like the greenhouse size, location, climate, and the specific plants you are growing. Solar power needs can significantly vary based on these factors. 

Below is a general guideline for estimating solar power needs on average and for lighting, heating, and watering.

Can Solar Generators Power A Greenhouse?

Yes, definitely! A battery-powered solar generator is an ideal alternative to fossil fuels for powering a greenhouse. But, the market is replete with so many confusing choices, and you may have difficulty finding a reliable solar generator for your greenhouse. 

To keep you worry-free and save you effort, we have curated a list of the best solar generators for greenhouses. These solar generators have been selected after a careful examination of their capacities, portability, and other essential features.

BLUETTI EP900 + B500 Greenhouse Solar Power Generator

The BLUETTI EP900 + B500 is a perfect powerhouse for greenhouse operations. It comes with a staggering capacity of up to 9,000W and can easily run both 120V and 240V devices crucial for cultivation. Its capacity can be expanded from 9,920 Wh to 19,840 Wh by combining two EP900 units in parallel.

The EP900 + B500, with its remarkable 10-year warranty, is an alpha generator that is both durable and reliable for horticultural settings. It uses the safest LiFePO4 battery technology - this way, it eliminates all those risks linked to conventional power sources. 

BLUETTI AC500 + B300S Greenhouse Solar Power Generator

The BLUETTI AC500 + B300S is another excellent greenhouse energy solution. It is packed with an astonishing rated power of 5,000W (10,000W Surge). Its initial capacity is 3,072 Wh. But to your surprise, it can accept up to six B300S expansion modules (3,072 Wh per pack). This way, it offers a total capacity of 18,432 Wh, catering to your diverse energy demands. 

In addition, with its 16 versatile outlets, it can accommodate 99% of your equipment simultaneously. It has all the strength to run your greenhouse for days, even during the wet season. The deal also includes a 4-year warranty, manifesting the BLUETTI’s confidence in their product. 

BLUETTI EP500 Pro GreenHouse Solar Power Generator

The EP500 Pro redefines solar-powered greenhouses. It features an enormous capacity of 5,100 Wh and a pure sine wave AC inverted rated at 3,000W. It comes with 15 outlets, allowing you to use multiple agricultural tools without having to wait.

Like all other BLUETTI solar generators, this unit is also portable. It has four smooth wheels, which makes it a mobile power center for a greenhouse. It also has a built-in dual-core microcomputer, and its software can be upgraded over the internet connection. It also includes a solid 5-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Related articles: How to Build a Solar Heater for a Greenhouse？

How Much Does a Solar Panel Greenhouse Cost?

Final Thoughts

Is drastic climate change affecting your vegetation? Investing in a productive greenhouse enables you to produce food and grow plants all year round. Solar-powered greenhouses produce their own energy and don’t affect the environment with harmful emissions. They contribute to both the agricultural industry and a greener planet.

BLUETTI solar generators are superior to passive solar greenhouses or solar panels for greenhouses since they are movable, don’t require installation, and keep going with the least maintenance.