EcoFlow Solar Panel Compatibility: How to Connect ANY Solar Panel

Thinking about charging your  power station with solar but unsure what panels will work? This article will help you figure out what solar panels are compatible with your EcoFlow.

The good news is, most solar panels will work with EcoFlow power stations. But you have to know a few things first, such as how to:

• Match solar panel output with EcoFlow specs
• Use the appropriate connections, adapters, and cables
• Connect any solar panel to an EcoFlow power station

Disclaimer: This article is independently written and is not affiliated with or endorsed by EcoFlow. It is intended for informational purposes only to help customers understand which third-party products may be compatible with certain power stations.

Can You Use Any Solar Panel with a Power Station?

The short answer? Yes, you can use almost any solar panel with your power station. Why would you want to use other panels?

You can shop from a much wider selection of solar panels by doing so. This can save you money and use panels that fit your needs more precisely. All without sacrificing performance.

What Makes a Solar Panel Compatible?

For a solar panel to work with your power station, it needs to meet these solar input specifications:

1. Voltage (Voc): The panel’s open-circuit voltage must be within the range supported by your model. Exceeding this can damage your power station.
2. Current (A): When panels provide too much current, the power station will not be able to use the extra power above its maximum limit. Overpaneling may increase charging speeds in low light conditions, but you should always follow the manufacturer's advice.
3. Power (W): The wattage of the panels (voltage multiplied by current) will dictate how much energy will be produced.

For more information about these topics, see our article on Solar Panel Voltage and Current. Or use our Calculator for How Many Solar Panels Do You Need.

Solar Input Specifications

Here is a chart of the power station solar input specifications. Some models have more than one solar input and might be different than what's listed here:

Note: Always double-check your power station specs before using a solar panel to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. The specifications listed here are based on publicly available information from the EcoFlow Support center but it is subject to change.

 

What About Solar Panel Connectors?

The next step is to figure out the actual connections between your power station and your solar panels.

Most solar panels come with MC4 connectors, except some portable solar panels use XT60, 8mm, or other connectors. If your solar panels come with a charge controller, do not connect it when using a power station. You want to connect the panels directly to your power station.

Most EcoFlow models use XT60, XT60i, MC4, or CP30 as the connector for the solar input.

If your panels do not have the same connection as your power station, use affordable and widely available adapters to connect almost any panel. MC4 to XT60 is the most common adapter needed for making any solar panel compatible with an EcoFlow.

Ready to shop for your solar adapter? Check our our lineup of Solar Panel Adapters and Connectors.

Do You Need a Solar Extension Cable?

Use a solar extension cable to keep your solar panels in sunlight and your power station in the shade. Your options include:

• MC4 Cables (Pre-Installed): An easy and affordable way to span long distances.
• MC4 Cables (Custom): Save money and create the perfect solar extension cable by creating your own MC4 cable by quickly and easily crimping on MC4 connectors.
• XT60 Cables: If you have XT60 connections on the panels and power station, this is a good choice.

See our lineup of Solar Panel Extension Cables or discover more about MC4 Connections and Tools.

A Quick Compatibility Checklist

Before connecting a solar panel to your EcoFlow power station, ask yourself:

• Is the panel’s voltage within the supported range?
• Does the current output exceed the power station’s limit?
• Is the panel’s wattage appropriate for my energy needs?
• Do I have the right connectors or an adapter cable? 
• Do I need a solar extension cable for my power station? 

 

How to Connect Solar Panels to Any Power Station: Step-by-Step Guide

Connecting solar panels to your power station can be a breeze. Follow this step-by-step guide to go through the process safely and efficiently.

• Solar Panels: Get adequate solar panel wattage and verify the output of the solar panels is within the limits of your power station. Consider series and parallel connections.
• Connection Adapters: If necessary, get an appropriate adapter. Here is a reference chart for the common solar adapters needed for EcoFlow power stations and the products that can solve your issue:

• Extension Cables: Measure the length of cable you need between your panels and power station. If necessary, get an appropriate extension cable, such as:
  • MC4 Solar Extension Cable
  • Cable and MC4 connectors (Create Your Own MC4 Extension)
  • XT60 Extension Cable
• Check Polarity: Verify that the polarity (positive and negative) is correct at each connection. Reverse polarity can cause permanent damage.
• Connect Cables: Securely plug in all connectors and cables. Place the solar panels in direct sunlight.
• Monitor Charging: Check your power station to verify charging status.
• Disconnect Safely: When you’re done, disconnect the solar panels and remove the adapter cables. 

That's all it takes. Follow these simple steps and you'll be able to use any solar panel you want with your power station. 

Safety Tips and Troubleshooting

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid Overloading: Never exceed the maximum input voltage. This can damage the power station. Exceeding current should be done with caution and only when adhering to manufacturer recommendations.
• Monitor Temperature: Heat builds up when charging and powering devices. Provide adequate airflow and use caution in hot weather.
• Weak vs. Peak Sunlight: Solar panels need full direct sunlight to produce electricity well, and even then, it’s customary to expect ~80% of your rated wattage.
• Cables and Connections: If you notice slow charging or no charging, check all cables and connections. Ensure they are fully seated with correct polarity.
• Battery Level: Power stations may limit charging speeds when too hot or when approaching fully charged.
  

Quick Guide to Solar Panel Compatibility

Q: Do I need a special cable to connect my solar panel to a power station?

A: It depends on your panel’s connectors. Most solar panels use MC4 connectors, while many power stations use XT60 or MC4 inputs. You may need an MC4 to XT60 adapter cable or a similar solution.

Q: How can I use a solar extension cable?

A: Solar extension cables can help you place the panels in full sunlight and the power station in the shade near your devices. We typically recommend MC4 extension cables when possible.

Q: How do I connect multiple solar panels to a power station?

A: You can connect multiple solar panels in parallel or series. In parallel, the voltage stays the same but the current increases. In series, the voltage increases but the current stays the same.

Q: Is a parallel or series connection best for my power station?

A: Many EcoFlow models have a low current limit, which means series connections are preferred (voltage adds up but current stays the same). But it depends on your particular setup. Parallel connections can be useful for power stations when you want to keep voltage down.

Q: What happens if the solar panel voltage is too high?

A: If the voltage exceeds your power station's maximum input, it can damage the power station. Always ensure your panel’s voltage (Voc) is within the supported range. Cold weather can cause this to rise by ~10% or more.

Q: What happens if the solar panel wattage is too low?

A: If your solar panel wattage is too low, your power station might not recognize the charging input (usually due to not meeting the minimum voltage). It also may leave you with an inadequate amount of power.

Final Thoughts

With the right adapter and cable, it’s easy to make almost any solar panel compatible with EcoFlow power stations. An MC4 to XT60 (or XT60i) adapter cable is one of the most common ways to connect most solar panels to a variety of models. Certain power stations use MC4 or CP30 and may need a different adapter or cable.

No matter what you need, our store has the solution. Head over to browse our lineup of solar adapters, extension cables, and tools.