Lithium Batteries Charge

Desertrix

New Member
Joined
Mar 7, 2025
Posts
5
Location
California
I’m trying to understand potential charging time on the PW Ascent with only 1 solar panel (150w) and 600 amp batteries.

I know the batteries recharge while driving and with the generator running but how long does it take and does 1 solar panel realistically do anything?
 
You have 600amp hour batteries, I assume, as amps is current and not battery capacity.

It is pretty normal to get about 30ah per 100 watts of recharge per day in decent summer sun. So about 50ah per day. You might get 60ish in great conditions or you could get 10 or less in bad conditions.

If that is relevant to your charging probably depends on how much power per day you use.

If you use under 100ah per day, you might get an extra day or two without other charging. If you are using 300ah or more today it won't help much. Keeping track of your daily use for a while is always a good idea for the future trips.
 
Thanks Booster

I should have made it more clear that I was asking “if” anyone had scenario.

In the Pleasure Way Ascent there is only room for 1 solar panel on the roof since it is around 20’ long. The solar is an option if ordering new so just curious if is worth the expense. May not have a choice if I do go new because you have to pick what is available and most I have seen have the solar option.
 
In general, I think that power/battery/charging stuff is pretty universal between brands and models. The models would give data points on power use based on products are used in the build. Basically you look at your needs for power use and work backwards for the bank capacity and type, to the available charging sources to see if they match.

Your 600ah setup might never need any solar if you drive every day to needing 1000+ watts if you never want to drive or plug in.

I the Ascent had a dedicated second alternator and drove a minimum of about 6 hours when you drive most could go 3 days without charging by driving with average type use, for instance.

With a second alternator the solar becomes much less necessary for all vans.

My guess for your particular case, without knowing how the van will be used, could be wildly off.

On a new van custom order, probably not worth the cost for 150 watts of solar.

If it is on a lot stock van, negotiate the price as if it isn't there and tell the sales people that you don't need it.

Doing a power balance sheet before buying is a nearly essential thing if you want to make a correct decision on a very expensive van.

Lots of members here will be able to help you do that as there a wealth of experience here.
 

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