Victron Energy BlueSolar PWM DUO Solar Charge Controller, 12/24V, 20A, LCD, USB, Dual Battery

Overview

The Victron Energy SCC010020060 is a BlueSolar PWM DUO LCD and USB solar charge controller for 12/24V battery systems with a 20A rated charge current. It suits small solar charging setups where one panel array needs to maintain two separate battery banks, such as a starter battery and a house or service battery on a boat.

The controller uses PWM charging with programmable bulk, absorption and float stages, and the LCD gives status monitoring and setup access from the unit. Automatic system voltage detection supports 12V and 24V operation for lead-acid battery systems, while LiFePO4 charging is supported for batteries that have an internal BMS.

Two 5V USB outputs provide up to 2A combined for charging small USB devices, and the common negative layout helps with integration into many low-voltage DC installations. The enclosure is IP20, so it belongs in a dry, protected location rather than an exposed cockpit, deck locker, or wet engine space.

Key features

• 12/24V PWM solar charge controller with a 20A rated charge current.
• Two separate battery outputs for charging a starter battery and a service or house battery from one controller.
• Programmable charge current ratio for adjusting how charging is shared between the two battery outputs.
• Programmable three-stage charging with bulk, absorption, and float stages.
• Battery algorithms for AGM, GEL, flooded lead-acid, and LiFePO4 batteries with an internal BMS.
• LCD display for system status monitoring and controller setup.
• Two 5V USB ports with up to 2A combined output for USB device charging.
• Programmable lighting control and load disconnect functions for small DC load management.
• Protection against reverse polarity connection of the solar panels or battery, plus over-temperature protection.
• Remote battery temperature sensor included for temperature-compensated charging.

Installation and setup

The unit measures 101.5 x 184.0 x 47.1 mm and weighs 0.3 kg, so it can fit on a compact electrical panel while still leaving room to view the LCD and access the terminals. Its IP20 enclosure is not sealed against spray or washdown, which makes a dry cabin, electrical locker, or sheltered equipment panel the better mounting location.

The terminals accept up to 16 mm² or AWG6 conductors. Cable size, fuse placement, and battery isolation should be matched to the vessel's DC system and the controller's 20A charge rating.

Solar and battery compatibility

For a 12V battery system, use 36-cell solar panels. For a 24V battery system, use a 72-cell panel or two 36-cell panels in series. Maximum solar voltage is 28V on 12V systems and 55V on 24V systems, so the panel array voltage should be checked before connection.

The controller supports AGM, GEL, flooded lead-acid, and LiFePO4 batteries with an internal BMS. Automatic 12/24V detection applies to standard 12V and 24V operation, but LiFePO4 setups require the correct voltage setting rather than relying on automatic detection.

Use on board

This controller is a practical fit for boats using solar to maintain both starting and house batteries while moored, anchored, or between trips. The dual battery outputs are useful where the engine start battery needs maintenance charging without giving up solar support for cabin lighting, instruments, pumps, or other house-bank loads.

The USB outputs can handle simple device charging at the controller, which is useful in a cabin, nav-station area, or sheltered equipment space. For exposed helm or deck installations, use a separate marine-rated USB outlet in a weather-protected circuit instead of relying on the controller enclosure for splash protection.

What's included

• BlueSolar PWM DUO LCD and USB 12/24V 20A charge controller
• Remote battery temperature sensor