The Victron BlueSolar PWM-Light 12/24V-30A is an entry-level solar charge controller for straightforward off-grid charging. It auto-detects whether it is connected to a 12V or 24V battery system and regulates charging with pulse width modulation, protecting the battery from overcharge without any manual setup.

Key features

• Automatic voltage detection, identifies 12V or 24V systems with no selector switch to set.
• Charge current, 30A maximum, supporting a meaningful panel array on a 12V or 24V bank.
• PWM regulation, switches the panel connection on and off to hold the battery at the correct voltage during absorption and float.
• Weight, 0.15kg, easy to fit into small enclosures.
• Status LEDs, basic charging state feedback without extra monitoring hardware.
• Low self-consumption, keeps parasitic draw to a minimum.

How it works

A PWM controller wires the solar panel straight to the battery and switches that connection at high frequency rather than stepping voltage down like an MPPT unit. This suits systems where the panel's nominal voltage is close to the battery voltage. The BlueSolar PWM-Light range strips out the communications ports, load output and programmability found on Victron's higher-tier controllers, leaving just the core charge function. For mismatched or higher-voltage panel strings an MPPT controller is the better fit.

Applications

Its size and simplicity suit campervans and motorhomes on a single leisure battery, narrowboats and small boats with auxiliary panels, off-grid cabins, electric fence energisers, remote monitoring gear and standalone-powered telecoms or security equipment.

Installation notes

Connect the battery before the solar panel and fuse all wiring to the current rating. There is no load output, so any DC loads need their own wiring back to the battery with separate overcurrent protection. This unit is fine for competent DIY installation on low-voltage DC systems, but any work forming part of a larger grid-connected solar PV system should go through a qualified electrician or MCS-accredited installer in line with BS 7671.

What's in the box

• 1x Victron BlueSolar PWM-Light Charge Controller 12/24V-30A