Last Updated: Apr 20, 2023
Thinking about adding a solar panel to your golf cart?
Golf carts are a great way to get around, and with a solar panel upgrade, they can also help you save money on energy costs. Our reviews of the best solar panel for golf cart charging will help you choose the right one for your needs.
We’ll show you the best solar panels on the market today, so you can find one that fits your budget and meets your needs. With a little bit of research, you can have a solar-powered golf cart that saves you money and helps the environment!
Want to see the best solar panels and accessories you should buy for the job right off the bat? Check out our top picks below:
| Product Name | Review | Link | Price | Amazon Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renogy 100-Watt High-Efficiency Solar Panel | Jump to Review | Buy Now | $84.99 | 3416 (4.7 stars) |
| Genasun 350W Solar Panel Charge Controller for Golf Carts | Jump to Review | Buy Now | $180.00 | 24 (4.6 stars) |
| Color Tree 600W Boost Solar Charge Controller | Jump to Review | Buy Now | $88.88 | 26 (4.5 stars) |
Why You Should Charge Your Electric Golf Cart With Solar Power
Solar energy is a clean, renewable option for powering your golf cart. Not only will you save money in the long run by not having to pay for fuel or electricity, but you’ll also be helping reduce carbon emissions and help protect the environment.
Plus, solar-powered golf carts don’t require maintenance other than occasionally cleaning the solar panel. So you won’t have to worry about dealing with smelly gasoline or frequent tune-ups.
Finally, solar panels are relatively easy to install, and you can even find some models that come with everything you need in one package. So a solar panel is a perfect solution if you’re looking for a simple way to make your golf cart more energy-efficient.
What You Need To Know Before Buying A Solar Panel for Your Golf Cart
When it comes to shopping for a solar panel for your golf cart, there are several factors to consider. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Size – Make sure the solar panel is big enough to provide the power you need but small enough to fit on your roof.
Efficiency – Look for a model with high-efficiency ratings so you get the most power out of your solar panel.
Watts – Consider how many watts you need to charge your golf cart, and look for a model that can provide this amount of energy.
Capacity – Make sure your solar panel is capable of producing enough power to keep up with your usage.
Durability – Look for a model with a durable construction so it can withstand the elements.
Once you have those factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the best solar panel for your golf cart. If you’re also interested in enhancing your golfing experience with technology, you might want to consider golf GPS handheld devices as well.
Best Solar Panel for Golf Carts on the Market Today
Renogy 100-Watt High-Efficiency Solar Panel
Maximum Power: 100W
Material: Monocrystalline Silicon
Efficiency: 18.1%
Optimum Operating Voltage: 20.4 V
Dimensions: 41.8 x 20.9 x 1.38 inches
Weight: 14.1 Pounds
Setup & Install Experience:
The Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline solar panel is easy to install and comes with 20 pre-drilled holes ready for mounting. It’s designed to last for decades in any weather condition with its IP65 protection, so you can be sure it will provide reliable power no matter what.
The Renogy 100W solar panel is the perfect upgrade for your golf cart. It is small enough to fit on most roofs and produces an average of 500Wh of electricity per day – more than enough power to keep your golf cart running smoothly and efficiently with moderate use.
Plus, its advanced 9 Bus-bars cell technology and half-cell structure make it a reliable energy source for years to come.
Pros
- Easy to Install
- High Efficiency
- Durable Construction
- 20 Pre-Drilled Mounting Holes
- State-of-the-art Solar Tech
Cons
- Some customers reported a max of 60W in direct sunlight
Performance & Overall Experience:
Overall, the Renogy 100-Watt High-Efficiency Solar Panel is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their golf cart with a solar panel. It’s easy to install and produces plenty of power in all but the darkest days – even when it’s cloudy.
The quality of the frame is top-notch and very sturdy. Plus, it hit peak 100w output in various scenarios for us. We were very impressed with the performance, and it’s been an enjoyable experience overall.
We’d recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable solar panel for their electric golf cart charging needs!
For the safety of your equipment, you may also want to consider a GPS tracker for your golf bag.
Tested Features on a Club Car Golf Cart:
- Charging Speed
- Efficiency
- Durability
- Installation Ease
- Run Time
Best Charge Controllers For Solar Golf Carts
Genasun 350W Solar Panel Charge Controller for Golf Carts
Max Battery Voltage: 48V
Charge Profile: Multi-Stage
Max Panel Power: 350W
Night Consumption: 5mA
Dimension: 6 x 3 x 4 inches
Weight: 12.8 ounces
Setup & Install Experience:
The Genasun 350W 48V Solar Panel Charge Controller is designed specifically for 48V lead-acid battery golf carts. It is easy to install, with a simple two-wire connection that can be done in minutes. The controller also features a multi-stage charge profile and can handle up to 350W solar power.
The Genasun controller also has low night consumption, drawing just 5mA when not used. This helps to reduce energy waste and ensures your battery is fully charged without overcharging it.
Pros
- Simple Installation
- Multi-Stage Charge Profile
- Low Night Consumption
- High Wattage Capacity
- Compact Design
Cons
- No digital display to show status
Performance & Overall Experience:
Overall, the Genasun 350W 48V Solar Panel Charge Controller improves the efficiency and performance of your 48V lead-acid battery golf cart. It’s easy to install and features a multi-stage charge profile that helps to keep your battery fully charged without overcharging it. We were impressed with the controller’s compact design, which makes it perfect for tight spaces.
We found that the controller provided reliable power to our golf cart and had no issues with overcharging. We also appreciated its low night consumption, which helps to reduce energy waste.
Overall, we recommend the Genasun 350W 48V Solar Panel Charge Controller for your 48V lead-acid battery golf cart! It’s an efficient and reliable way to keep your battery charged.
Tested Features on a Yamaha Golf Cart:
- Battery voltage
- An efficient algorithm for charging
- Lead-acid ready
- Night Consumption
- Power Output
Color Tree 600W Boost Solar Charge Controller
Max Voltage: 72V
Max Power: 600W
Voltage Range: 15V-65V
Dimensions: 13.78 x 5.91 x 3.15 inches
Weight: 1.98lbs
Battery Type: 48V/60V/72V Lead-acid/Lithium battery
Setup & Install Experience:
The Color Tree 600W Boost Solar Charge Controller is designed for 48V, 60V, and 72V lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. The controller is easy to install and features an adjustable voltage range between 15V and 65V. It also has a high power output of 600W, which makes it perfect for 48V lead-acid battery golf carts.
The Color Tree Boost Solar Charge Controller also has an efficient algorithm that can charge your battery quickly and safely. This means your battery will remain charged without the risk of overcharging or draining. The controller also has a low night consumption, which helps reduce energy waste.
Pros
- Easy Installation
- High Power Output of 600W
- Efficient Algorithm for Charging
- Low Night Consumption
- Lead-Acid Ready
Cons
- Some customers reported that the controller lacked instructions in English
Performance & Overall Experience:
Overall, the Color Tree 600W Boost Solar Charge Controller is an efficient and reliable way to keep your 48V or 72V lead-acid battery charged. It has a high power output of 600W and features an efficient algorithm that can charge your battery quickly and safely without overcharging or draining it. We also appreciate the LED indicators that make it easy to see the controller’s current status.
Try the Color Tree 600W Boost Solar Charge Controller if you are looking for a reliable 48V, 60V, or 72V lead-acid / lithium-ion battery charger. It is easy to install and provides efficient power output that helps keep your battery charged every day.
Tested Features on an EZGO Golf Cart:
- Battery voltage
- Charge-Cycles
- Functionality
- Ease of Mount Install
- Visual Monitoring
How to Install a Solar Panel On a Golf Cart Roof Safely and Securely
Installing a solar panel on a golf cart roof is an easy and efficient way to keep your battery charged. To ensure proper installation, follow these steps:
- Measure the area and cut two pieces of uni strut to fit across the roof securely.
- Secure the mounting brackets for each panel with bolts and nuts, ensuring everything is level and secure.
- Depending on your roof type, feed the wires through or around the roof, and connect them to the battery bank or charge controller.
- Finally, double-check all connections before powering up the system!
Follow these steps to install solar panels on your golf cart’s roof safely, and ensure you are prepared for low-energy days on the course!
Installing the solar charge controller next to the power bank of your cart batteries. This is similar as described in our article golf cart GPS trackers.
Final Thoughts on the Best Solar Panel for Golf Carts
When it comes to choosing the best solar panel for your golf cart’s charging needs, there are many factors you have to consider.
We recommend the Renogy 100-Watt High-Efficiency Solar Panel as a reliable and efficient choice for keeping your golf cart battery charged. It features a lightweight design and is easy to set up. Additionally, it can withstand extreme weather conditions and has an excellent warranty.
Golf Cart Solar Panel Charging FAQs
How many solar panels does it take to run a golf cart?
Generally, a solar panel system for a golf cart will require at least one 100W panel. The number of panels you need to power your golf cart effectively depends on your usage and the size and capacity of your battery bank.
How long does it take to charge a golf cart battery with solar?
Depending on the wattage of your solar panel system, it can take up to 6 hours for a full charge. Keep in mind that lead-acid batteries require more time than lithium-ion ones.
Can a Solar Panel Power a Golf Cart Fully?
Yes, a solar panel system can power your electric golf cart fully. However, depending on the size of your battery bank and how much energy you need daily, you may require more than one panel to meet your charging needs.