excuse my absolute ignorance, I have been trying to do some research but would like some opinions. I am looking into getting a solar system or even a portable solar generator if there is ever a SHTF event or natural disaster. I have seen portable 1800 watt units selling for 1100 and up. Is this something that would be worth the investment. What and how much can be powered? am I better off spending 10K on a larger more permanent solar system? Any information would be very much appreciated

No such thing as a 'Solar Generator'....

What you need depends on your needs.

Seriously, go here––> Northern Arizona Wind & Sun
Great bunch of folks that do not like to see others waste money.

Solar is great; until the sun is down, or it is cloudy, or trees shade your space for the solar array.  





Portable is relative too:  You need to compare the weight and package size of the solar unit to a Honda EU200i.  Do not forget that the solar unit will need batteries and the EU200i will need fuel.





For the $ that the solar unit costs you could buy an EU2000i and fuel cans that would give you electricity in almost any weather





 

The wattage ratings of most "solar generators" are VERY misleading - almost to the point of being downright fraudulent.

While an ordinary engine-driven generator is capable of delivering its rated wattage indefinitely, most "solar generators" specify the maximum wattage capable of being supplied by the rechargeable battery - not the much smaller power output of the solar panel itself. The battery is only capable of delivering this power for a few minutes before it is completely discharged.

If you're serious about going solar, consider buying your own panels, batteries, charge controller and (optional) AC power inverter. For any given amount of money spent, you'll end up with a system that blows away most pre-packaged "solar generators".