How long will solar take to recharge my power station?
Panel nameplates are laboratory numbers. Real panels deliver less — heat, angle, haze, cable losses — so we derate your array to 78% and cap it at the station's rated maximum solar input, the two steps most charging-time claims skip.
Assumptions, graded: effective input = min(panel watts × 0.78, station's maximum solar input). The 0.78 derate is a WattLong assumption — INFERRED — in line with common PV derating practice (real output typically 75–85% of nameplate). Manufacturer maximum solar inputs are CONFIRMED/REPORTED per model page. Results are hours of peak-sun equivalent: most locations get roughly 3–6 peak sun hours per day, so convert before planning a day around it. Keep your array's open-circuit voltage inside the station's published solar voltage range (shown on each model page) — exceeding it can damage the station. When in doubt, check the manual or ask the manufacturer.
WattLong is reader-supported. Some links on this site are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure. All results are estimates — verify with the manufacturer and a licensed electrician before relying on them.