How To Connect Solar Panels To BailiBatt Power Stations
This article is a quick guide on how to connect compatible solar panels to the BailiBatt power stations.
There are currently two BailiBatt power stations, the HP150 (146Wh/150W) and the HP200D (257Wh/300W) models.
Related Product: I recommend this 60W solar panel (click to view on Amazon) that is compatible with both BailiBatt power stations
I’m going to tell you what you need to know to get started, and share some panel recommendations.
Please leave a comment if you have any questions.
BailiBatt Power Station Specifications
The Inputs on the Bailibatt Portable Batteries
Both models use the DC5521 input, which is a common connector. A lot of portable solar panels on the market include several connectors, and the DC5521 connector is almost always included.
If you’re planning on buying a solar panel that uses MC4 connectors, you’re going to need an MC4 to DC5521 adapter (click to view on Amazon).
The adapter is made for panels that have a positive MC4 male connector and a negative MC4 female connector.
What’s just as important as the type of port it uses is the input ratings, because that’s what is going to decide if a panel is compatible or not.
Input ratings
Both have built-in MPPT solar charge controllers that can handle 12V solar panels. You should therefore not buy a solar panel with a charge controller, it’s not going to work with two.
According to the description of the HP150, it accepts panels with a working voltage of up to 18V. The HP200D accepts up to 20V.
I haven’t tested them myself, but I believe that both are OK up to 20V, it’s just that most 12V panels output 18V and that’s why they say that.
BailiBatt recommends using a 40W panel with both, but advertises a 2A input limit. A panel outputting 18V at 2A would equal 36W, but we’re going to need a panel that is a bit larger than 40W to get close to that max input.
I recommend using at least a 60W panel, but a 40W panel will of course also be able to charge the battery, albeit slower.
Solar Panel Recommendations
Now we know the input port and what voltages the solar charge controller in the power station accepts, let’s talk a little bit about panels.
You can either buy a portable and foldable panel that includes a DC5521 connector, or a rigid panel more suitable for permanent installations. If you do the latter, you’re going to need the MC4 to DC5521 adapter (click to view on Amazon).
So how do you plan on using the panel? A portable panel is great for travelers or homeowners that want to quickly be able to unfold a panel and get a recharge.
But if you have a little cabin or a van and would like to permanently setup a panel on the roof, a rigid panel is the way to go. Rigid panels can usually handle the elements better.
Portable and foldable panels
Here are a couple of portable panels that include the DC5521 connector, which make them compatible with the Bailibatt batteries right out of the box.
- Marbero 30W – A lightweight, waterproof option that folds together and fits in a backpack.
- Apowking 40W – A flexible, lightweight panel that also has a USB port so you can charge USB devices directly from the panel.
- Keshoyal 60W – A slightly larger, but still lightweight panel with a nice handle strap. Also has two USB A ports.
- Grecell 80W – A larger panel that might be worth it if you live in a place where the sun is weaker or go camping in the winter. It’s going to take a panel of this size to reach the 40W input limit in bad conditions. This has both USB A and USB C ports, is waterproof, and high-quality.
Rigid panels
These panels use MC4 connectors and require use of the MC4 to DC5521 adapter (click to view on Amazon). Simply connect the MC4 connectors from the panel to the adapter.
- Newpowa 30W – A small but efficient panel with a working voltage of 17.37V. IP67 waterproof, pre-drilled mounting holes, and a solid little panel.
- Renogy 50W – A 50W panel from the popular company Renogy. High-quality, efficient, and a brand I recommend.
- Renogy 50W Flexible – A lightweight panel great for stealthy setups or where weight matters a lot. Easy to install on rounded surfaces thanks to its high flexibility.
- Rich Solar 60W with kickstand – Not for permanent installations, but a rugged rigid panel with a kickstand, easy to put out and forget about.
- Newpowa 75W – A no-frills 75W panel with a working voltage of 17. Pre-drilled for easy installation.
Extension Cables
For panels using the DC5521 connector, I recommend the iGreely DC5521 extension cable. Available in different lengths.
For panels using MC4 connectors, I recommend the Geosiry 10 AWG MC4 extension cables. Available in different lengths.
How can I increase the charging speed with my panel?
You should make sure the panel is clean and aimed directly at the sun. That can mean having to angle the panel when the sun is low on the horizon. The only time a panel should be lying flat is when the sun is right above it, otherwise you’re losing out on watts.
I also suggest using the shortest possible extension cable, if you have to use them at all. The longer the cable, the more power loss you’re going to have.
Since the BailiBatt power stations don’t have a very high max input, the two things I mention above can make a significant different in terms of the estimated charging time.
Can I use the wall or car charger at the same time?
No, there is only one input port.
Do 24V panels work with the BailiBatt power stations?
No, 24V panels usually have a working voltage of around 30-32V, that’s too high for the charge controllers.
Please leave a comment if you have any questions.