Energy Matters Forums

[seedlinks]

I am seeking a solution to charge 48v batteries for e-bikes, using solar power of course.
Is anyone aware of the most efficient way to do this, using only 1 solar panel?
I believe I will need a regulator, or the charger may come with one built in.
But I'm having trouble finding a 48v solar panel, and believe if I use a voltage converter, the losses may outweigh the benefits.
Any advice on this topic would be helpful, as electric bikes are really becoming popular, but we don't want to put more demand on our dirty electricity grid.

[Gordon-Loomberah]

High voltage panels do exist, Sinosolar make them at least, and no doubt other companies as well. However, there are a number of things to consider, such as battery type, LiPo, NiMH, Pb-acid etc, and what input is required by any on-board charger. Maybe you want to do it with just 1 solar panel, but you may find it more convenient, ie you can fold to half the size, by using 2 X 24V panels.

You really shouldn't put the panel output directly onto the battery, and in any case, some sort of MPPT regulator will get you significantly more power from the panel(s) than a PWM regulator, but they are more expensive.

If you plan to do the charging at home, the most efficient way to do it may be to purchase green power and plug it in.

Personally I prefer my bike without the weight of motors and batteries

[Electric Madness]

http://visforvoltage.org/forum/6130-lif ... r-charging

[Electric Madness]

It comes down to your battery murdering system (BMS) too.