Solar Panels

What Can a 150 Watt Solar Panel Run?

By:Michael Johns

150 watt solar panel

Looking to invest in a 150 watt solar panel?

But you’re a little unsure about what it can power?

Well, you’re in the right place.

In many ways, a 150 watt solar system is the perfect size.

It offers that extra bit of power to charge batteries efficiently while being small enough to use for most purposes.

Ready to start generating electricity from the sun?

Let’s get into it.

What Can a 150 Watt Solar Panel Run?

When used correctly a 150 watt solar panel can help to run a wide range of electronics and appliances. If you are looking to run devices directly from a solar panel you will be a little restricted by the power and flow of electricity. You would be able to charge portable gadgets like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. But don’t expect to run a refrigerator or TV directly.

But don’t worry.

The best way to use a solar panel is along with a large leisure battery. This way you can use the power of the sun to charge the battery and store large amounts of power. Then you can use a power inverter to connect up larger appliances to draw more wattage. For example, you could attach a 1000 watt power inverter to your system. Then you will be able to use your system to run fridges, fans, lighting, heaters, computers, and many more home appliances.

One thing to think about is that solar panels come in many different shapes and sizes. If you can’t find exactly a 150W panel to suit your needs you can always combine multiple panels to fit your requirements. Or even go for a bigger power size to ensure you’re always generating enough electricity.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the top options available on the market today.

How much power does a 150 watt solar panel produce?

On a sunny day, a 150 watt solar panel is able to produce around 650Wh of energy. This is an average amount based on 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight in a day, the actual figure will vary based on weather conditions.

How many amps does a 150 watt solar panel generate?

To calculate amps from a 150 watt solar panel you need to divide watts by voltage. So 150 watts divided by 12 volts is 12.5. So over the course of a sunny day, you could generate around 60A. 

What size charge controller for 150w solar panel?

A 150 watt solar panel with a 12V battery will generate 12.5A. This means a 20A solar charger will work with a 150w panel.

What size fuse for 150w solar panel?

A 20A fuse should be adequate.

150 Watt Solar Panel Recommendations

1. WEIZE 200 Watt 12 Volt Solar Panel Starter Kit

Let’s kick off this list with an awesome starter pack from WEIZE which gives you the essential parts to your first solar kit.

You’ll easily be able to generate 150W from these dual solar panels. In fact, combined it’ll deliver you 200 watts on a good day. It’s always better to have more than less, especially when light conditions aren’t perfect.

What I love about this is it makes it easy for you to get started with solar whether you want to use it at home or off-grid in an RV, boat, or cabin. These panels are super-efficient thanks to the monocrystalline cells. Keeping them durable for more than a decade is an anti-corrosion aluminum shell and tempered glass. This impact resistance means you can happily mount them on top of a vehicle without any worries.

To hook directly into your 12V leisure battery a 30A PWN solar charge controller is included with the kit. This helps to monitor and charge your battery efficiently. It also protects against dangerous overcharging. Plus an LCD screen makes checking your power settings and making adjustments effortless.

Finally, it arrives ready to install with predrilled holes in the frame and the required brackets. All you need to add is your battery and inverter.

A solar starter kit with plenty of power!

Pros:

  • Generate more than 150W
  • Includes charge controller
  • Durable aluminum and tempered glass
  • Monocrystalline cells

Cons:

  • 2 separate panels
  • Not portable

2. XINPUGUANG 150W 12V Foldable Solar Panel

For something more portable that hooks up to a leisure battery or portable power station, here is the answer.

This 150 watt solar panel combines a brilliant balance of power and portability. It still delivers fantastic performance thanks to the monocrystalline cells for efficient power output. For a lightweight and foldable design, durable Oxford cloth is used to hold the panels which makes it water-resistant. 

It’s perfect for outdoor adventures such as camping or hiking, or as a handy power backup at home. Happily, it includes a 20A charge controller to give you multiple use cases. You can add it into a leisure battery in an RV, truck, or boat. Charge phones and tablets directly using the USB port. Or you can use it with a portable power station! True adaptability.

The only downside is the lack of waterproofing on the charge controller so keep that safe and dry. Installation is a breeze no matter how you use it, especially with the handy alligator clip cables included.

Pros:

  • Portable and foldable
  • Monocrystalline cells
  • Adaptable usage
  • Includes alligator clips

Cons:

  • Can’t mount permanently
  • Charge controller not waterproof

3. Renogy 175 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel

As I mentioned at the top of the article it can be hard to find a single solar panel of exactly 150 watts. This option from Renogy offers a touch more power, which is no bad thing. You can happily mount this single panel (or multiple in series) on any flat sunny surface such as a rooftop, sheds, boat, or van.

It delivers 175 watts with incredible efficiency from the monocrystalline cells. Multi-sheet lamination boost performance while ensuring a long lifespan. Plus Bypass diodes stop hot spots and balance power when variable light hits the panel. The well-constructed design even includes corner protectors to avoid cuts from sharp edges. A nice little touch!

As you can imagine, it’s a highly durable product with a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame that secures the low iron tempered glass. Adding to this, a waterproof junction box completes the panel making it ready to use out of the box.

Once you have this beautiful panel in your hands it’s quick to install thanks to predrilled holes in the frame which you can use in conjunction with z-brackets, tilt mounts, and pole mounts.

Get it quick before it sells out!

Pros:

  • Durable construction
  • High-efficiency 
  • Easy installation
  • Corner protectors
  • 175W
  • Mount on rooftop or vehicle
  • Monocrystalline

Cons:

  • Not portable

4. BigBlue 150 Watt Solar Panel Kit

Trying to add solar power to your portable power station? Here’s the answer.

This 150W portable solar panel is the perfect accessory for your solar generator whether it’s a Jackery, Goal Zero, Suaoki, BigBlue, or any other. It comes loaded with 10 adaptors, Anderson cable, and alligator clips so you can pretty much hook up to anything you come across.

The panels perform really well too. Like any of the top choices, it uses monocrystalline cells to provide optimal efficiency and long-lasting performance. The folding briefcase design means you can carry it anywhere with you such as the beach, camping, campervans, or hiking. 

To set it up simply unfold the panels, throw out the kickstand, and place it in direct sunlight. It couldn’t get easier. A water-resistant exterior helps to guard against spills and splashes, although I wouldn’t leave it out in the rain.

You can even charge USB devices, like smartphones, directly from the smart chip embedded in the unit.

Pros:

  • Portable and foldable
  • 150 watts
  • Water-resistant
  • 10 adaptors for power station
  • Alligator clips
  • Kickstand

Cons:

  • Not rooftop mountable
  • Not weatherproof

5. XINPUGUANG Solar Panel 150 Watt Solar Kit

A solid solar kit delivering 150 watts, could be what you’re after?

This is one of the few 150 watt solar panel kits available. Most other products either deliver more/less power or require multiple panels. Happily, this is another useful product from Xinpugang. You’ll get the essential pieces of a 150w solar system to get you started including a rigid panel, solar charge controller, cables, and mounting brackets.

The panel itself is built to industry standards with monocrystalline cells for the most efficient performance. In addition, the frame uses anti-rust aluminum which also has the benefit of being lightweight. This is a panel that should last for decades with its tough design that can withstand high wind, rain, and snow. (Make sure to clear snow off otherwise it’ll get no sunlight…)

A 20A charge controller should be plenty to run one or two of these panels in order to charge your battery but you’ll need to upgrade this if you decide to add more in your series. Thanks to the included mounting brackets and cables you’ll be ready to install this bad boy as soon as it arrives.

Pros:

  • Exactly 150w
  • Starter kit
  • Includes charge controller
  • Durable long-lasting design
  • Mount on rooftop or vehicle

Cons:

  • Not portable

6. Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel 50W/100W 

I’m a big fan of flexible solar panels for certain uses, particularly for curved surfaces or even a stealth campervan.

Now, this offering from Topsolar isn’t exactly 150 watts but you can quickly build your perfect setup with a combination of the 50W and 100W options.

The panels have incredible adaptability thanks to a flexibility arc of 40cm which makes them awesome for boats, airstream trailers, trucks, busses, and virtually anything! They’re just 0.1 inches tall too so they’re really low-key which many people like for the top of a van or RV. It also makes them super lightweight.

You’ll still benefit from deep black monocrystalline cells for high-efficiency energy conversion. The ETFE material is incredibly strong and durable while still allowing amazing light transmission to the solar cells.

Build your 150W solar system with these epic flexible panels.

Pros:

  • Flexible for adaptable mounting
  • Lightweight
  • Slimline
  • Monocrystalline
  • Multiple power options

Cons:

  • Not as durable as rigid panels

7. EF ECOFLOW 160 Watt Portable Solar Panel for Power Station

If you’re still hunting for the perfect portable option then take a look at Ecoflow.

This unique portable solar system has four panels built into it in order to produce 160 watts. A 110w option is also available.

It neatly folds down into the attached carry bag for easy transportation. This carry case also doubles as a neat kickstand so you can place the panel in the sunniest location at the optimal angle. Open it up and leave it to bask in the sun like a hippopotamus….

Inside you’ll find monocrystalline cells that deliver 21%-22% charging efficiency which is up there with the top products on the market. It’s certainly one of the more expensive portable options but you’re getting top quality. It even works with the MPPT solar charge controller which will give you far superior performance to others on this list.

When it comes to durability, it won’t let you down either. The panel is fully waterproof thanks to the one-piece seamless design. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures wherever you end up!

Finally, you can quickly plug it into your portable power station via the MC4 connector and solar charging cables.

Pros:

  • Monocrystalline cells
  • Fully waterproof
  • Portable with carry case
  • Kickstand
  • Super high quality

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Not rooftop mountable

8. Renogy 12V Flexible Solar Panels

Let’s finish off this list with various sizes of flexible solar panels to help create your perfect 150W solar system.

This Renogy range of flexible solar panels is available in a number of sizes including 50, 100, 175, and 200. You’ll probably have your eye drawn to the 175W option for your power needs.

Like the other Renogy panels it boasts incredible performance and durability. The monocrystalline cells are coupled with bypass diodes to stop hot-spotting in variable light conditions for a smooth power supply. TPT back sheet coats the underside for decent heat dissipation during hot days. 

You can mount these happily on the uneven surfaces you’re likely to find on vehicles or remote buildings. To install the panel simply secure it using the metal rings before connecting it to your solar charge controller and battery.

Lightweight, slimline, and available in various sizes for whatever off-grid location you need.

Pros:

  • Flexible
  • Multiple sizes
  • Monocrystalline
  • Lightweight
  • Slim

Cons:

  • Not as durable as rigid panels

150 Watt Solar Panel Features to Consider

If you’ve made it this far then you’ll have a much better understanding of what sort of products are available. When making your buying decision there are a number of factors to consider in finding your perfect fit. Here are the things to take into account when looking for a 150W solar system.

Panel Type & Usage

First of all, let’s talk about how you will be using the panel and what difference it makes. You’ll either be looking to mount it on a rooftop or permanent location, add off-grid power to a vehicle, or a portable option for things like hiking and camping.

You’re planned usage will dramatically change what style of panel you need. For example, if you want something portable a heavy rigid panel is not going to be suitable.

Rigid panels are perfect to mount in a static position such as a house, shed, or cabin roof. They are incredibly durable and can withstand weather conditions all year round. Some people also use them on vehicles such as RVs, vans, and boats.

Flexible panels are another great option that offers more adaptability. You can use them to mount on uneven or curved surfaces which you often find on vehicles plus they’re light enough to hang them on a wall. This lightweight nature makes them popular while vehicle owners to help reduce the weight when driving. Plus they’re really slim at 0.1 inches thick so they’re completely unintrusive. 

Portable panels are awesome for on-the-go power. They are foldable and lightweight to make them easy to carry. This means you can store them easily to take on camping, hiking, and other adventures. They’re a very popular way to recharge a portable power station from the sun.

Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline

You might have seen both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels available when doing your research. But do you understand what the difference is? 

Monocrystalline solar cells are far more efficient and durable than polycrystalline. You’ll benefit from a high conversion rate of sunlight to electricity. On the downside, they are more expensive. You can spot monocrystalline cells by their deep black coloring.

Polycrystalline solar cells are a cheap but less efficient option. You might consider this if you are on a budget. To be honest, in the long run it’s worth investing in monocrystalline which is why it is heavily featured in our favorite products above.

Durability

Whatever you are buying, quality should be at the forefront of your mind. This is particularly important with solar panels. The beauty of solar panels is the ability to save money on energy bills! To fully benefit from this you must ensure your equipment lasts for a long time. A decent solar panel should last more than a decade. The last thing you want is to be regularly replacing parts of your system. When looking for durable products look for features such as anti-corrosion aluminum frames, tempered glass, ETFE material, waterproofing, and weatherproofing.

Size & Space

One thing you might not have considered is the size of a solar panel and how much space you have to mount it. They are often bigger than they look. I strongly advise measuring up the amount of space you have available and the dimensions of the product so there are no shocks. 

On average you’ll find a 150W solar panel is 1400 x 650 x 35 mm in size.

Price

How much does a 150 watt solar panel cost? 

The price varies depending on what you are looking for you should expect to pay anywhere between $150 – $450. Lighter weight flexible solar panels can be as cheap as $150 whereas solar starter kits and high spec portable products can cost more than $300.

Other Components

Along with the solar panel, you can find a number of different components and features. At the very least you should expect your panel to include cables and a junction box to wire it up. To complete your 150 watt solar system you’ll also need:

  • Charge controller
  • Deep-cycle battery
  • Power inverter
  • Mounting system

Maintaining Solar Panels

Solar panels don’t need a lot of regular maintenance. There’s certainly not much ongoing cost which makes them such a cheap source (and free!) of electricity. To maintain the best performance and improve the lifespan there are a few things you should do from time to time.

  • Clean your solar panels when they get dirty. If you notice dust, dirt, leaves, grime, snow, or anything else blocking sunlight from reaching the solar cells then make sure to remove it. Anything stopping the sun from hitting the whole panel will reduce its efficiency and power output.
  • Fix any damage or errors with your system immediately. Faulty electronics including batteries and charge controllers can present a real safety risk, particularly fire. Plus any equipment not working properly will reduce performance.

How To Install Your Solar Panel

Installing solar panels is actually quite simple once you understand all the different parts of your system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Carefully mount your panels in place. Do this by drilling holes that correspond to your panel’s mounting whole. Use provided nuts and bolts to secure in place.
  2. Connect your charge controller to your battery using either O-rings or alligators clips. Ensure to connect the red cable to red terminal (positive) and black cable to black terminal (negative). Always do this before connecting the solar panel.
  3. Plug your solar panel cables into the solar charge controller. 
  4. Hook up your power inverter to your battery in order to draw power to your appliances.
  5. Enjoy off-grid power!

Final Words on 150 Watt Solar Panels

There you have it, everything you could possibly want to know about the best 150 watt solar panels.

You should have an in-depth understanding of what you need to create your perfect off-grid solar system. Remember you don’t just need to stick to one single panel if you can’t quite find the right size. You can easily combine multiple panels to match your needs.

Plus if you require other components to compliment your solar panel then take a look at our power inverter and charge controller guides too.