Quote:
Originally Posted by rubicon
Does anyone have information and /or experience concerning the effectiveness of a solar roof? Are they worth the price? Do they increase a golf carts ability to travel farther distances?
Do you know where I might get expert information from someone other than a manufacturer who is selling solar roofs?
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Greetings,
A newbie, wannabe here!
Although I don't have an exact experience with solar panels on carts,
I do have a solar system that I personally installed and maintain on my home here in Alabama about 4 years ago. They all work about the same.
I have been thinking about creating an electric vehicle/cart partially powered with solar. Basically, as long as it's in the direct sunlight it will produce power to charge the batteries but you can't get enough of them on the top to run it full time so as it's charging while riding down the road it will extend the charge of the batteries and to that extent will extend the range.
Jrheydt: $1700. sounds like a lot to me. You should compare them by price per watt and prices have been dropping lately as companies are going out of business or reducing production. On the 120 watt, 12 volt versions I use the price I have paid per watt is $4.50. You will need 48 volt versions that probably will run more (I have not priced them lately). Another important aspect is the panel needs a controller to limit the batteries from being overcharged and protect them although that might not be as important in the golf cart situation. Battery maintenance is very important for optimal performance. Hope this helps.