4 Best Solar Panels to Replace Generators in 2025

Sun-powered energy meets rugged reliability in the Generac 100-Watt Solar Panel, a standout performer for adventurers and off-grid users who demand consistent charging without relying on fuel-burning generators. Its monocrystalline cells deliver up to 100W of peak power, ensuring fast recharges for compatible power stations, while the IP65-rated waterproof and dustproof build laughs off rain, sand, and trail grit. The tri-fold design isn’t just portable—it’s engineered for stability, with dual kickstands and reinforced corners that keep it locked in optimal sun alignment, solving the common frustration of flimsy, floppy solar mats that collapse in wind.

In real-world testing, this panel shines brightest under full, direct sunlight, where it consistently hit 18–20 volts and pushed close to its rated wattage, cutting GB Power Station recharge times in half compared to single-panel setups. Thanks to parallel capability, linking up to four units unlocks a 400W solar array—ideal for rapidly topping off larger power stations during extended outages or basecamp operations. However, like all solar gear, it struggles in heavy shade or cloudy conditions, and without an integrated MPPT controller, efficiency dips slightly when light isn’t ideal. Still, the built-in cable pouch and ruggedized fabric make it one of the most organized and trail-ready panels we’ve tested.

When stacked against the GRECELL and Keshoyal options, the Generac stands tall as the most durable and system-ready solar solution, especially for users already in the Generac ecosystem. While heavier than some competitors, its robust construction and expandability make it a smarter long-term investment than budget models that skimp on weather resistance. It’s not the most compact, but if you’re ditching a generator for dependable, silent, and clean solar charging, this panel delivers industrial-grade confidence in the wild or at home—outperforming the Lion Energy panel in weather sealing and offering better system integration than the GRECELL.

The GRECELL 100W Portable Solar Panel is a value-packed powerhouse that punches far above its price tag, making it the go-to choice for those switching from noisy, maintenance-heavy generators to efficient, silent solar energy. Boasting 23.5% conversion efficiency thanks to high-grade monocrystalline cells and an intelligent charge chip, it maximizes energy harvest even in suboptimal light—perfect for early morning hikes or overcast camping trips. What truly sets it apart is its universal compatibility, with a well-stocked kit of four DC connectors and Anderson cables that plug seamlessly into Jackery, EcoFlow, Bluetti, and other top power stations, eliminating the adapter hassle that plagues many solar panels.

On the trail, this bifold panel proves its worth with lightweight portability and smart design touches—the zippered pouch keeps cables tangle-free, while reinforced grommets let you hang it from a tent or RV awning for hands-free charging. In testing, it delivered close to 90W under ideal conditions, and when paired in series or parallel with a second unit, it effectively doubled input to larger power stations. The ETFE-laminated surface resists scratches and UV degradation, but the panel can sag slightly on uneven ground without external support, and like most in this class, performance drops sharply in partial shade.

Compared to the Generac, the GRECELL lacks the same level of rugged weatherproofing but offers far better value and broader compatibility for multi-brand users. It’s not built to last 20 years like the Lion Energy model, but for campers, van lifers, and emergency preppers who want maximum function without overspending, it strikes a near-perfect balance. If your goal is to replace a small generator with scalable solar, this panel gives you serious charging power and flexibility at a fraction of the cost—outshining the Keshoyal in output and the Lion Energy in connectivity.

Built like a tank for long-term off-grid and RV living, the Lion Energy 100W Folding Solar Panel is engineered for users who want to ditch generator dependency and rely on solar as a primary, not backup, power source. Its double-walled aluminum frame feels incredibly sturdy, promising decades of service—up to 20 years according to the manufacturer—while the 8.5 lb weight strikes a balance between portability and durability. Designed to pair seamlessly with Lion Energy’s Summit generator or external charge controllers, it delivers consistent 100W output and supports daisy-chaining multiple panels, making it ideal for permanent or semi-permanent solar arrays on RV roofs or cabin setups.

In real-world use, the panel performs admirably in sustained sunlight, maintaining voltage stability even during midday heat spikes, thanks to its robust thermal management. The foldable design is simple and functional, though it lacks built-in kickstands or a storage pouch—users must improvise with straps or brackets. It connects via bare wires, which is great for hardwiring into systems but less convenient for casual campers who want plug-and-play operation. While it holds up well in wind and light rain, the minimal weather sealing on the junction box means it’s best used in dry, controlled environments or under cover.

When compared to the Generac and GRECELL, this panel is less portable but far more durable, making it a better fit for stationary or semi-permanent installations than weekend backpacking. It doesn’t offer the plug-and-play convenience of the GRECELL nor the waterproofing of the Generac, but for RV owners and off-grid homesteaders investing in a long-term solar infrastructure, its lifespan and structural integrity are unmatched in this price range. If you’re replacing a generator with a permanent solar setup, this panel offers serious staying power and system scalability—outlasting the GRECELL in build quality and offering better integration than the Keshoyal.

For budget-conscious adventurers looking to escape the noise and fumes of gas generators, the Keshoyal 60W Foldable Solar Panel delivers accessible, eco-friendly power without breaking the bank. It packs a 23.5% efficient monocrystalline cell array into an ultra-slim, 4 lb frame—making it one of the lightest and most packable options for hikers and minimalist campers. The dual USB ports let you charge phones, GPS units, or tablets directly, while the included eight DC adapters ensure compatibility with most solar generators, from Jackery to Bluetti, solving the common pain point of limited device support in entry-level panels.

In field tests, the 60W output proved sufficient for trickle-charging small power stations or keeping devices alive during weekend trips, though it struggles to fully recharge larger units in a single day without ideal sun. The four mounting clips make it easy to hang on backpacks or tents, and the thin profile folds down to briefcase size—perfect for tight storage. However, the junction box isn’t waterproof, so it must be kept dry during rain, and performance drops significantly in anything less than full sun. It’s not built for heavy-duty use, but for light-duty, short-term applications, it gets the job done.

Against the 100W competitors, the Keshoyal is clearly outgunned in power, but it excels as an entry point for solar newbies or as a supplemental panel for low-drain devices. It’s not a true generator replacement for power-hungry setups, but for backpackers, emergency kits, or students needing basic off-grid charging, it offers solid efficiency and surprising versatility at a rock-bottom price—outperforming larger panels in portability and undercutting the GRECELL and Generac in cost while still delivering reliable sun-to-power conversion.