Rent Solar Equipment | Minnesota Renewable Energy Society (MRES)

Rent the Solar Power Trailer

Pure, Portable Power

IPS Solar and the Minnesota Renewable Energy Society (MRES) have joined efforts to build the most versatile power supply in the state. The Solar Power Trailer is both an educational tool and a fully functioning power source that can provide quiet, clean, renewable power to any site.

The 8 solar panels on the side and roof of the trailer use thin film silicon technology, which works well in partly shaded areas and is virtually unbreakable, making the trailer great for over-the-road hauling from site to site. The panels, combined with 16 deep-cycle batteries, provide power equal to that of a 4,000-watt generator.

Up to 22 kilowatt-hours of electrical power can be stored, making it ideal for one- or two-day events. In addition to providing solar powered electricity, the trailer has the ability to charge itself from the utility grid or put power back into the grid (utility permission required).

Examples of What the Trailer Can Power

•	A concert for 5,000 people
•	A small carnival
•	Up to 25 trade show booths
•	Temporary telecomm sites
•	About 5 concession stands
•	About 200 laptop computers

Trailer Specifications

•	PV array rating 1.6 kW
•	2 Trace SW4024 inverters (4 kW at 48 volts)
•	Battery bank rating 440 amp-hours = 21.12 kWh
•	40 amp max at 110 vac capacity
•	Usable total battery capacity: 16.89 kWh
•	110-volt 30-amp circuit breaker for larger concert equipment
•	Approximate trailer weight: 3,000 pounds

Where the Solar Power Trailer Has Been

•	Earth Day at the Minnesota State Capitol
•	St. Paul Bike Classic
•	Environmental Grantmakers Association Conference
•	May Day Festival
•	Midwest Renewable Energy Fair
•	Solar Boat Regatta
•	Annual Living Green Expo
•	Midtown Public Market

Funding

The Solar Power Trailer was funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Renewable Energy Society, Westwood Renewables, IPS Solar, and Bruce Drew. We are still looking for additional donors to add highlights to the trailer such as large display screens, a computer, and various educational materials. Contact us if you'd like to donate to this project.

More Information

Solar Power Trailer Set-up and Operating Instructions [PDF]

Solar Power Trailer Information and Use Agreement [PDF]

How to Rent the Solar Power Trailer

Contact David Boyce at (651) 324-1642 or davidb@mnRenewables.org.

Costs (within the seven county metro)

$150/day for profit, $100/day non-profit. Additional Costs: Expenses that may be incurred are travel, set-up, or damage. Transport outside of the seven county metro is $1/mile to and from the event site, starting at 30 miles from the MRES Solar Trailer site if MRES provides the transport. Set-up costs depend upon specific needs.

Once you've scheduled your Solar Power Trailer rental with David, please return to this web page and click on the button below to pay your rental fee securely online via PayPal:

You may also pay your rental fee by sending a check made payable to "Minnesota Renewable Energy Society" with "Solar Power Trailer Rental" in the memo to: Minnesota Renewable Energy Society, Attn: Solar Power Trailer, 2928 5th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408

Rent the Solar Cart

The power cart we have has been used by organizations like Sierra Club for running a microphone and amplifier for the Tour de Sprawl, and many similar events. It has a 1500 watt inverter with two outlets, a single sealed battery and a 10 watt solar panel to help keep it charged. It also has a power meter consisting of different colored led's that tell you how much power is left. It costs $40 per day and we also hold a damage check for $250. It fits easily in a trunk and has wheels and a removable handle.