In this video, I show you how to build a cheap emergency solar power system that will work with practically any solar panel. I will power USB and small 12-Volt appliances by harvesting power directly from the solar panel. This simple system uses only a couple of cheap parts and does not require an inverter, battery, or charge controller.

A buck converter is very efficient at energy conversion. This particular DC to DC converter is unique to this task because of its wide-ranging input voltage of 20V-90V as many other converters are fixed to a set input voltage.

NOTE: Although 200 watts of solar power are relatively benign. Never connect more than ONE panel or combination of panels totaling more than 200 watts of power to a buck converter. If you are uneasy about connecting wires, look at getting a USB Solar Charger instead (see below). Always use common sense when dealing with electricity. See my website for more details.

** Schematic And Complete Parts List (07-30-2023) **
https://www.natesdiysolar.com/project...

The Ultimate Buck: Directly from AliExpress (not affiliate link):
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/325680...

   • SHTF - Cheap Emergency Solar Power - ...  

0:00
0:03 - Intro
1:00 - The Parts
3:58 - Wire Buck Converter
4:39 - The 12V Appliances
5:12 - The USB Devices
5:40 - Something Cool
6:25 - Wire MC4 Connectors
7:30 - Test USB Devices
8:45 - Test 12V Appliances
10:36 - Make Coffee (clouds)
12:30 - Renogy 100W Panel Test
14:43 - Charge LiFePO4 Battery
18:18 - Something Cool #2
18:47 - Conclusion

** DC-DC (BUCK) Converter Options **

NOTE: 07-14-2023 - These are quickly becoming sold out! Check my website for more options.
- If the item on Amazon does not match the link here then its sold out.
https://www.natesdiysolar.com/project...

XWST: 90 Volts PV (VOC) MAX

20-90V in to 12V DC 10A 120W out
https://amzn.to/46E75Np
20-90V in to 12V DC 16A 196W out
https://amzn.to/3Px3IBQ
20-90V in to 12V DC 20A 240W out
https://amzn.to/3NPFtxt

See my website for more details and options.

** USB Panel Options **

Dual QC3.0 USB Car Charger Socket Panel Switch
https://amzn.to/3JE7tkU
(4 in 1) 12V USB Panel - 78W 3 Ports USB C 12V Outlet Dual PD 30W
https://amzn.to/431JmDP
65W USB-C PD USB Module Only (Power Delivery for higher power devices)
https://amzn.to/46wdV7p

NOTE: 06-29-2023 - Wires are pretty thin on these USB panels. They will get warm at 12A
Some come with a 10A fuse that will smoke using 12V appliances.

** Cables and Connectors (affiliate links) **

10 Feet 10AWG Solar Ext. Cable With MC4 Connectors Installed
https://amzn.to/44iFQpt
10 Feet 12AWG XT60 Solar Panel Ext. Cable
https://amzn.to/3rdKRBG
Pair of 9In 12AWG MC4 Pigtail
https://amzn.to/3Py8bEd

NOTE: The items listed below will work with the 16A/192W buck converter, with the exception of the 300W heater. You may not be able to use them at the same time. I recommend getting the 20A converter to allow for some headroom and not overload.

** 12 Volt Appliances - Video **
👀 my website for more options...
https://www.natesdiysolar.com/project...

** Reputable Companies (affiliate links) **

AmpereTime/LiTime: Great LiFePO4 Batteries
3% Coupon Code: NATESDIY
https://www.litime.com/?ref=XBwnqBoJf...

Current Connected: Ready-to-Run Solar Kits and Victron Equipment
https://currentconnected.com/?ref=lbh...

SanTan Solar: New and Used Solar Panels:
https://www.santansolar.com/?ref=8496...

SFK: Quality DIY Battery Enclosures and Ready-to-Run Batteries:
6% Coupon Code: NATESDIY
https://www.sunfunkits.com/


Contact Information:
I am not available for personal solar system consult!

Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.natesdiysolar.com

FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:

This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, We'll receive a small commission.

Videos on this channel are for EDUCATIONAL purposes only. Electricity is dangerous and can kill. Please use common sense.

Nate's DYI Solar is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com