Solar Panels on Golf Carts
Solar panels are usually thought of as add-ons to homes. The revolution of using solar panels for RVs is changing that thinking and now solar panels for golf carts is on the rise.
Solar Panels on Golf Carts
Solar panels on golf carts can be used to power the vehicle as well as recharge the batteries while the cart is actually used in daylight. If the golf car is left with access to sun, the panels will also keep the battery constantly charged while stationary, allowing the batteries to last much longer.
Most electric golf carts or carts can be outfitted with a solar charging system, reducing utility costs. The deep cycle batteries used in golf carts are ideal for solar charging. They are designed to have a lot of electricity stored and dispersed on a regular basis. The number of times a battery can be recharged increases significantly as the percentage depth of its discharge decreases. So, a battery can last up to twice as long if it is being charged continuously. The sulfur in the acid within the battery has a tendency to settle and solidify. This tendency increases as the amount of electricity stored in the battery decreases. Therefore, if the battery is kept at a higher charge, such as with a solar charger that works all the time, the battery will last longer because the sulfur will not settle.
Several companies make golf carts with solar panels incorporated into the roof, or kits that can convert nearly any golf cart by adding solar panels onto the roof and wiring them to the batteries. The more expensive kits use many small solar panels, sometimes as many as twelve. This is to insure that if one of the panels is damaged, by an errant golf ball, for instance, the total output of the solar panels will not be significantly reduced. The large number of panels also creates a more flexible roof for the vehicle. Both the expensive and cheaper kits include a charge controller to ensure that the battery will not be overcharged.
Consumers with nominal electrical skill could make their own solar powered golf cart. Just purchase the required materials, install the panels on the roof and wire them to the battery. Include a charge controller so the battery does not get over charged and damaged.
As prices for solar panels comes down, more and more golfers and golf courses may move towards solar powered golf carts. The most obvious benefit to golfers is the longevity and ease of maintenance, but the solar powered carts also save energy and reduce pollution, lessening the impact that golf courses have on the environment.
