It is possible to charge a lead acid battery with a solar panel. But choosing the right solar panel according to the battery capacity is important. It is essential to ensure that the solar panel’s voltage output matches the battery’s nominal voltage.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on connecting your solar panels to charge a 12V battery: Check whether the 12V battery has wires. If not, you’ll need to purchase 10- or 16- gauge wires to connect them to the charge controller. Attach the stripped end of the positive battery wire to the position terminal and vice versa.
The most common way to charge a lead-acid battery is by using a charger connected to the mains electricity. Solar panels are popular for charging batteries in remote locations where grid power is unavailable. It is possible to charge a lead acid battery with a solar panel.
Check Voltage Output: Ensure the solar panel produces enough voltage to charge your 12-volt battery, typically around 18 volts. Gather Necessary Components: Collect a solar panel, charge controller, 12-volt battery, and appropriate wiring. Install the Charge Controller: Connect the charge controller between the solar panel and the battery.
Goal Zero has released the solution for this, and it’s called the Guardian 12V Plus Charge Controller. The Guardian 12V charge controller has an 8mm input so you can connect Goal Zero solar panels to it. You’ll then use the alligator clips coming out of the output port on the Guardian to connect it to your battery.
A lithium-ion battery is more efficient than a lead-acid one but requires higher panel wattage. All other factors being equal, you’d need a 120-watt solar panel for lead acid vs a 190-watt panel for a lithium battery. The downside is that lead-acid batteries are less durable and have shorter lifespans.