The most effective way to harness the power of the sun, wind, or water is to install a renewable energy controller. This electronic device, which can be mounted inside a home or out, monitors and controls your system, ensuring a reliable flow of clean energy.
We researched and tested dozens of controllers, evaluating ease of installation, compatibility, and smart home integration. Our overall favorite, the Victron Energy SmartSolar, integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it works with a wide range of pumps and solar panels.
Here are the best renewable energy controllers.
Best Renewable Energy Controllers: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Renewable Energy Controllers Reviews
- SMART SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Solar charge the smart way with the Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT charge controller, to ensure that every ray of available sunlight is converted into usable energy, while optimizing battery longevity.
- MAXIMIZE POWER OUTPUT: With lightning-fast optimum power point tracking and intelligent charge algorithms the Victron MPPT solar charge controller makes sure you always get the maximum possible power output, even when your solar panels are partially covered in shade.
- SYNCHRONIZED CHARGING: Multiple SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers can synchronize to behave as one, simultaneously switching through different charge stages to ensure battery longevity and system wide energy optimization.
- CONNECTIVITY: The VictronConnect app lets you connect with your system to gain insight into real-time data and 30-day performance history. Easily configure devices with battery presets, change settings, update firmware and set alarms to tailor your system to your every need.
- INTELLIGENT LOAD OUTPUT: Power devices directly and securely from your solar charger. Configure the voltage at which a load should disconnect and rely on the MPPT charge controller to automatically disconnect the loads if the battery voltage drops too low.
- SMART SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Solar charge the smart way with the Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT charge controller, to ensure that every ray of available sunlight is converted into usable energy, while optimizing battery longevity.
- MAXIMIZE POWER OUTPUT: With lightning-fast optimum power point tracking and intelligent charge algorithms the Victron MPPT solar charge controller makes sure you always get the maximum possible power output, even when your solar panels are partially covered in shade.
- SYNCHRONIZED CHARGING: Multiple SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers can synchronize to behave as one, simultaneously switching through different charge stages to ensure battery longevity and system wide energy optimization.
- CONNECTIVITY: The VictronConnect app lets you connect with your system to gain insight into real-time data and 30-day performance history. Easily configure devices with battery presets, change settings, update firmware and set alarms to tailor your system to your every need.
- INTELLIGENT LOAD OUTPUT: Power devices directly and securely from your solar charger. Configure the voltage at which a load should disconnect and rely on the MPPT charge controller to automatically disconnect the loads if the battery voltage drops too low.
- SMART SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Solar charge the smart way with the Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT charge controller, to ensure that every ray of available sunlight is converted into usable energy, while optimizing battery longevity.
- MAXIMIZE POWER OUTPUT: With lightning-fast optimum power point tracking and intelligent charge algorithms the Victron MPPT solar charge controller makes sure you always get the maximum possible power output, even when your solar panels are partially covered in shade.
- SYNCHRONIZED CHARGING: Multiple SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers can synchronize to behave as one, simultaneously switching through different charge stages to ensure battery longevity and system wide energy optimization.
- CONNECTIVITY: The VictronConnect app lets you connect with your system to gain insight into real-time data and 30-day performance history. Easily configure devices with battery presets, change settings, update firmware and set alarms to tailor your system to your every need.
- INTELLIGENT LOAD OUTPUT: Power devices directly and securely from your solar charger. Configure the voltage at which a load should disconnect and rely on the MPPT charge controller to automatically disconnect the loads if the battery voltage drops too low.
- SMART SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Solar charge the smart way with the Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT charge controller, to ensure that every ray of available sunlight is converted into usable energy, while optimizing battery longevity.
- MAXIMIZE POWER OUTPUT: With lightning-fast optimum power point tracking and intelligent charge algorithms the Victron MPPT solar charge controller makes sure you always get the maximum possible power output, even when your solar panels are partially covered in shade.
- SYNCHRONIZED CHARGING: Multiple SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers can synchronize to behave as one, simultaneously switching through different charge stages to ensure battery longevity and system wide energy optimization.
- CONNECTIVITY: The VictronConnect app lets you connect with your system to gain insight into real-time data and 30-day performance history. Easily configure devices with battery presets, change settings, update firmware and set alarms to tailor your system to your every need.
- INTELLIGENT LOAD OUTPUT: Power devices directly and securely from your solar charger. Configure the voltage at which a load should disconnect and rely on the MPPT charge controller to automatically disconnect the loads if the battery voltage drops too low.
- 【Hybrid charge controller application range】: This hybrid charge controller fits all 12/24/48V batteries, including lithium battery. Fits max wind generator and max solar panels for wind solar complementary system for home, boat, street light.
- 【Operating System】: The wind turbine charging part has booster MPPT technology, which makes it charge continuously and efficiently even at low wind speeds. Stepless discharge function including external dump charging resistor solar panel charging uses PWM technology through MOS tube in series.
- 【Intelligent and Stable System】: The parameter is set perfectly after choosing the battery type. User can also customize according to their own needs. This system has been updated more intelligently to control the charging voltage with absolute stability.
- 【Display and DC charging mode】: larger LCD screen that is easy to browse and handle. Two DC load (output) with 4 output modes and each can be set different models.
- 【Protection Function】: reverse charging, sunlight protection, overcharge voltage/under voltage and overload protection, battery reverse and idle protection, lightning protection, etc.
- MAXIMIZE POWER OUTPUT: With lightning-fast optimum power point tracking and intelligent charge algorithms the Victron MPPT solar charge controller makes sure you always get the maximum possible power output, even when your solar panels are partially covered in shade.
- 【Optimized for 12V Batteries】Compatible with 12V battery banks on the market, including lithium batteries. The LED indicators allow you to set battery types and check the charging staus with ease.
- 【Smart 4-Stage PWM Charging】Smart 4-Stage PWM charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization) increases battery life and improves system performance. Intelligent protection against reverse polarity, overcharging, short-circuit, and reverse current.
- 【Compact in size】Which makes it easy to install virtually anywhere.
- 【Multiple battery adaptation】 Deep Cycle Sealed (AGM), Gel, Flooded and Lithium battery option ready.
- 【Wanderer10A|30A Installation Notes】 The default starting position of the Wanderer controller terminal hatches are closed (in the UP position) that could mistakenly look like an open wire hatch. Make sure to FIRST lower each terminal hatch by screwing the terminals counterclockwise (CCW) to expose the wire terminal hatch to the open position. THEN secure each cable by rotating the screws clockwise (CW) to the closed position.
- Victron Energy BlueSolar MPPT 100-Volt 30 amp Solar Charge Controller maintains battery health, extending its life
- A solar charger gathers energy from your solar panels, and stores it in your batteries. Using the latest, fastest technology, Victron Energy BlueSolar maximises this energy-harvest, driving it intelligently to achieve full charge in the shortest possible time
- Victron Energy MPPT Solar charge controller: By constantly monitoring the voltage and current output of your solar (PV) panels, MPPT technology ensures that every drop of available power is rinsed out of your panels, and harvested for storage
- Remotely control and monitor the extensive features of Victron Energy BlueSolar MPPT solar charge controller by attaching a Bluetooth dongle (sold separately) and pairing it with your smartphone or other device via VictronConnect
- Incorrect installation can be hazardous, Please consult a licensed professional and follow all applicable electrical codes during installation
- 【Maximum 12 units in parallel】The maximum number of 100A mppt controllers that can be connected in parallel is 12 to increase the solar system's total capacity and improve the system's overall power output. This can better meet the needs of large solar systems while improving the reliability and stability of the system. In addition, paralleling is also conducive to system maintenance and management, making the system operation more flexible and efficient. NEW Breakthrough: It can be connected in parallel with a 80A MPPT controller (Model: POW-M80-PRO)!
- 【Dual Cooling, Efficient Heat Dissipation】The 100-amp charge controller is constructed with die-cast aluminum, ensuring excellent heat dissipation and reduced power consumption. Additionally, it features a turbofan fan for efficient cooling (activates at temperatures >45°C and turns off <40°C). The upgraded turbofan fan cooling system is quieter and more effective, making it suitable for use in RVs, commercial vehicles, boats, yachts, and solar systems.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Type Batteries】Negative grounding design controller safer, 100a charge controller compatible with a variety of 12/24/36/48V batteries(lead-acid and lithium, User customize); Sealed, Gel, Flooded and LI (LiFePO4 and Lithium-Ion) battery charging parameter pre-set, other battery can be customized charging parameter according to your need. User programmable Absorption Voltage / Float Voltage / Low Voltage Cutoff / Load Timer.
- 【Wide Range Voltage/Powe Support】100a solar charge controller supports High PV Input Power/Voltage. The charger controller can accept Solar voltage up to 160V. When the battery is 12V system: Suggest Solar power 1200W, suggest pv input voltage range: DC20V~DC80V; 2400W 37~105V when in 24V; 3600W 50~160 when in 36V; 4800W 72-160v when in 48V.
- 【Enhanced Protection and Lithium Battery Compatibility】The solar controller provides comprehensive protection against various faults, including overcurrent, short circuit, reversed polarity, overvoltage, over-discharge, and over-temperature. It enhances precision in battery temperature monitoring through an external temperature probe configuration. The system is compatible with lithium batteries and adjusts charging cycles accordingly. It also activates lithium batteries with solar panel energy, with precautions to prevent overcharging, but please note that Do not charge lithium batteries when the temperature is below 0°C.
- [ Wide Range of Input & Output ] Compatible with 12V-48V DC input, it's able to handle maximum of 780W(12V)/3120W(48V) input solar array, and can draw maximum of 60A output current to battery bank
- [ 99% Efficient MPPT Technology ] Maximum Power Point Tracking technology with a high tracking efficiency of up to 99% and peak conversion efficiency of 98%. It can keep a stable charging current even on cloudy days, making no waste of any sunlight
- [ Compatible with All Kinds of Batteries ] It's able to charge and discharge different kinds of 12/24/36/48V battery banks, including Gel, AGM, Lithium, LiFePO4, Flooded and NCM/NCA batteries
- [ OLED Screen for Real-time Monitoring ] Equipped with OLED screen, which can dispaly the status of PV voltage, battery voltage, charging current, charging power, and the button can be used to change the battery's type
- [ Reliable Electronic Protections ] It has multiple protections to prevent those circuit issues, including Reverse Polarity, Short-Circuit, High Temperature, Over-Current, and Over-Voltage/Low-Voltage. Prevent explosions and fire conditions, keep the controller safe during working
Best Renewable Energy Controllers Buying Guide
Before choosing the best renewable energy controllers you should consider the following options:
1. Modular or integrated: A key decision point in choosing a solar controller is whether to go for a modular or an integrated system. Modular controllers are usually cheaper and easier to install, but they are a bit less efficient.
Integrated controllers are more expensive, but they offer greater efficiency and more seamless integration of the solar energy system into the overall electricity grid.
2. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT): MPPT technology helps maximize the power output of the solar PV modules in order to harvest more energy from the solar PV array. The advantage of this technology is that it increases the overall efficiency of the solar PV system.
3. Maximum capacity: The maximum capacity of a solar controller is expressed in kW and must be selected according to the size of the solar PV array. The power rating of the controller must be greater than the total maximum power of all the modules in the solar PV array.
Also, note that the maximum capacity should be greater than the maximum power consumption of the entire electrical appliances in the home or office connected to the solar PV system.
4. Maximum voltage: The solar controller must be selected according to the voltage of the solar PV array. In general, the nominal voltage of a solar PV array is either 12 or 24 volts.
However, in some cases, 36-volt solar PV arrays are also available. The most common solar controllers operate with a maximum voltage of 1000 volts, which is suitable for most residential solar PV systems.
5. Maximum current: The current rating of the solar controller must be adequate to support the maximum current of the solar PV array. The current rating of the solar controller is expressed in Amps, and the selection must be based on the maximum current of the solar PV array.
6. Maximum power tracking and battery charging: The solar controller must be selected according to the type of application. In case the solar PV system is going to be connected to the electricity grid, the controller must have sufficient features to support and smooth out the output of the solar PV array.
What else you should know about the best renewable energy controllers
1. What are the best renewable energy controllers on the market?
Some of the more popular and well-regarded renewable energy controllers on the market include the Morningstar ProStar PS-30M and the OutBack Power MX60.
2. What are the features of the best renewable energy controllers?
The best renewable energy controllers will have the following features:
1. They will be able to accurately control the output of the renewable energy source.
2. They will be able to efficiently convert renewable energy into usable electricity.
3. They will be able to effectively manage the distribution of the electricity generated.
4. They will be able to safely and securely operate the renewable energy source.
3. What are the benefits of using a renewable energy controller?
Some benefits of using a renewable energy controller include reducing your reliance on the grid, saving money on your energy bill, and reducing your carbon footprint.
4. How do I choose the right renewable energy controller for my needs?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best renewable energy controller for your needs will depend on a number of factors, including the type of renewable energy system you are using, the size and capacity of your system, and your specific power needs. However, there are a few general tips that can help you choose the right controller for your system:
1. Make sure that the controller you choose is compatible with the type of renewable energy system you are using. For example, if you have a solar PV system, you will need a solar PV controller.
2. Choose a controller that is the right size for your system. If you have a small system, you will not need a large and expensive controller.
3. Consider your specific power needs when choosing a controller. For example, if you need to control a large amount of power, you will need a controller with a high capacity.
5. How do I install a renewable energy controller?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the installation process for a renewable energy controller will vary depending on the specific system and components being used. However, in general, the installation process for a renewable energy controller will involve connecting the controller to the solar panels, batteries, and other components of the system, and then programming the controller to operate the system in the desired manner.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best renewable energy controllers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best renewable energy controllers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.