The mobile power plant 'packages' more than 240 solar panels

Solar Container introduced the SolarCont mobile solar system containing 240 solar panels folded into a box as large as a standard container.

(Video: Solar Container)

The SolarCont system can be transported anywhere in the world and deployed as a power plant independent of the grid in just about 5 hours, Interesting Engineering reported on March 21. This portable solar panel system is perfect for locations that need additional clean energy to host events or conduct rescue operations.

SolarCont is designed to fit in a standard container approximately 6m long, 2.4m wide and 2.9m high. This size allows the system to be easily transported by container ship, freight train or truck. When arriving at the installation site, the team of workers will remove the external protective parts and place the solar battery system on flat ground. With the press of a button, the deployment of 240 solar panels begins, the system unfurling like an accordion.

SolarCont solar panel system.

With a group of 3 - 4 workers, SolarCont can be spread out to cover an area of ​​720m ² in about 5 hours. SolarCont is shipped with the panels pre-assembled, fully connected and connected to an inverter. Therefore, the system can start producing electricity immediately. When finished using, the panels are folded into boxes suitable for shipping in containers.

The average household in Germany consumes 4,000 kWh of electricity per year. Thus, SolarCont can meet the electricity needs of 32 households. If installed in a well-lit area such as southern Europe, the higher amount of solar radiation will help the system meet the electricity needs of 50 households.

Increasing power output at any one location is easily accomplished by increasing the number of SolarCont systems. This clean energy production system helps stabilize the power grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuel generators.