Solar Panel VOC higher than Renogy DCC50 Allows - Solutions Anyone?

[HereWeGo]

I really can't believe this happened and I am so depressed... Just finished installing the SolarHawk panel on my iKamper. Now I find out the Renogy DCC50 max input voltage (VOC) is 25v and the solar panel produces 28v. Are there any options to step down the panel's output? Any other solutions besides getting another solar panel or controller? Swapping controllers is not something I want to do. And the solar panel is so intensely glued to the tent, it'll be hell to get off.

Ain't that pretty?

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[Radio Guy]

Solar panels for 12V systems are around 21 volts at the high end and 28 volts is a bit unusual. Solar charge controllers are not that expensive and I've been using these 30A MPPT versions that are under $12 but I see they are also limited to 25V from the panel, otherwise they will assume you have a 28v battery system. https://www.ebay.com/itm/196297189336 You might shop around and see if another make/model will take more input voltage for a 12v system.

Or a switching buck/boost regulator could be used but you will loose at least 5% to 20% of power in the process depending on make and model. Here is a cheap buck boost that you could set for maybe 15-17v output to feed the charge controller, but I think a new charge controller is a better idea. https://www.ebay.com/itm/196270523983

 

[HereWeGo]

Solar panels for 12V systems are around 21 volts at the high end and 28 volts is a bit unusual. Solar charge controllers are not that expensive and I've been using these 30A MPPT versions that are under $12 but I see they are also limited to 25V from the panel, otherwise they will assume you have a 28v battery system. https://www.ebay.com/itm/196297189336 You might shop around and see if another make/model will take more input voltage for a 12v system.

Or a switching buck/boost regulator could be used but you will loose at least 5% to 20% of power in the process depending on make and model. Here is a cheap buck boost that you could set for maybe 15-17v output to feed the charge controller, but I think a new charge controller is a better idea. https://www.ebay.com/itm/196270523983

I've looked at dozens of buck regulators, but I need one that is fully encased, not the open design like the item above. Thanks for the reply. Any other ideas out there?

 

[teamblkdog]

I feel for you. This won't help you save money, but the REDARC BCDC1240D controller is rated for up to 32V. Also, should you decide to rip off and replace your solar panel, next time apply a sheet of 3M or similar vinyl to the roof prior to glueing your solar panel. A local sign company that offers vinyl graphics should be able to help you source and/or apply it.

 

[chorky]

Now I find out the Renogy DCC50 max input voltage (VOC) is 25v and the solar panel produces 28v. Are there any options to step down the panel's output?

Ain't that pretty?

The specification for that solar panel states right on their site max output is 22.88v. So I think you need to give them a call for a faulty part. Probably needs to be warrantied out for a new one.

That being said, several companies have higher voltage ratings. Here is an option from Zamp - up to 40v input. I have come to really like them. Hand made components in the USA (Oregon), and their controllers are simple and small.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0344/2973/0953/files/SCC1011_User_Manual.pdf?v=1683736525



By the way, that's a pretty nice looking setup you have. But what in the world is that big Renogy box? Is that the charge controller?? That thing is huge, and nearly 10x the size of the Zamp option. But it does not have the cool bluetooth monitoring features. Oh and the Zamp options work with led acid, AGM and lithium.

 

[HereWeGo]

I feel for you. This won't help you save money, but the REDARC BCDC1240D controller is rated for up to 32V. Also, should you decide to rip off and replace your solar panel, next time apply a sheet of 3M or similar vinyl to the roof prior to glueing your solar panel. A local sign company that offers vinyl graphics should be able to help you source and/or apply it.

I'm looking at a Renogy controller that handles input to 50v. I like the Bluetooth feature for monitoring and selectable output power.

The solarhawk panel comes with butyl rubber adhesive on the entire panel. It's not coming off willingly. And it's really the only good option for the iKamper.

 

[HereWeGo]

The specification for that solar panel states right on their site max output is 22.88v. So I think you need to give them a call for a faulty part. Probably needs to be warrantied out for a new one.

The VOC is what matters, it's 28. I'll look at the Zamp. Thanks

 

[chorky]

hat matters, it's 28. I'll look at t

I was looking at the wrong spec. Guess that coffee hasn't kicked in yet lol

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