Newpowa 9BB 30W 12V Solar Panel High-Efficiency Monocrystalline 12V PV Module Designed for 12V Off Grid System, Charge Your 12V Battery of RV, Boat, Camper, Trailer, Gate Opener(30W New)

Had a small low wattage panel, but it couldn't keep the battery charged for my gate opener. I bought this 30 watt low cost panel and a second battery, hooked it all up and it's been charging just fine in the month since I bought it. This is a 30 watt panel which is the max my gate opener system accepts. I did have A/C power for a backup, but by using over 100 feet of extension cord. The plan was to run electric to the gate opener, but this seemed like a much easier and cheaper option - and it was. Installation was slam dunk. You do need some kind of method to mount it at an angle since it doesn't come with a mount. Admittedly, it's summer and it's been sunny every day so we'll see if it keeps the batteries charged when a string of cloudy days shows up or if I have to bring out the extension cord again. However, so far it has not once shown any indication of not sufficiently charging the batteries which would be apparent by the gate opener getting weak and having difficulty opening or going out one morning and having the gate not operate at all. Things I've experienced all too often when I had that previous low wattage panel. It's done such a fine job so far that confidence is high that even consecutive cloudy days won't require me to go back to the extension cord backup. So far I see no reason to purchase an expensive $200 panel when this panel accomplishes the same task at a price so much lower.

I purchased this item to run a small fountain pump and charge a battery for automated nighttime use. It has been running since january 2020. Periodically I burn up a water pump and have a chance to check the voltage and amps. I load test it with a small fish tank heater with a shunted inline ammeter, while testing across the leads for voltage. I have never seen more than 22 watts of output, in Arizona with the panel perpendicular to the sun, which is completely sufficient in my situation, but is less than rated. Maybe if the panel was in space it would produce more power. That aside, it has endured blazing sun, temps well over 100, dust, bird droppings and occasional rain and monsoon hail for SIX Years and still works.

Feels sturdy. Making 1.1 amp with partial sun, minor tree blockage, installation at 4pm. Replaced my US Automatic panel that wasn't making enough power with available sun and it was at least 10 years, probably 15+. Repurposed the bracket and added a 2" x 1/4" thick aluminum bar stock for increased length. Also bought a new US Automatic charge controller. They are working well together. Gate is happier.

I love this little solar panel! I use it to recharge a 12V lithium ion battery I take on my astronomy camping trips. You'll need a charge controller to use this, but they're pretty cheap and easy to find. Also I ended up cutting off the connector and soldering on a 5mm barrel plug to make it compatible with my system. I'm not sure what kind of products use the plug it came with. The aluminum frame is pretty robust and seems to be holding up great after a few years. Be careful where you set it, though, as the edges may scratch some materials. Even if it's not totally clear and out of the shade, this manages to keep my batteries topped off during the day so I can run my telescope fans and charge my phone all night long.

Easy to hook up and at a good price