Victron BlueSolar PWM Charge Controllers — PWM-Light & PWM-Pro

The simplest, most affordable way to charge a battery from solar. The Victron BlueSolar PWM range is a no-frills pulse-width-modulation charge controller for small off-grid systems. It comes in two flavours: PWM-Light for straightforward, reliable charging, and PWM-Pro for those who want a fully programmable charge algorithm and a built-in battery monitor. Both include a load output that protects your battery from over-discharge and a day/night lighting timer.

PWM or MPPT — which do you need?

A PWM controller connects your solar panel almost directly to the battery, pulling the panel down to battery voltage. It's simple, reliable, and inexpensive — but it only works well when the panel's voltage already matches the battery. An MPPT actively converts excess panel voltage into extra charge current, harvesting up to 30% more and accepting much higher-voltage arrays.

PWM is the right call for small systems, warm climates, and a “battery-voltage” panel (a 36-cell panel for a 12 V battery, a 72-cell panel for 24 V) when you want the lowest-cost option. Choose an MPPT for higher-voltage (60-/72-cell “grid-tie”) panels, cold climates, longer cable runs, or maximum harvest from a larger array.

PWM-Light or PWM-Pro?

• PWM-Light — simple three-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float, not programmable), a two-digit display for setting the load output and timer, and a load output with low-voltage disconnect. The most affordable choice for basic 12/24 V systems (plus a 48 V/30 A model).
• PWM-Pro — a fully programmable charge algorithm (via free PC software or the optional BlueSolar Pro Remote Panel), an integrated battery-monitor function, an optional external temperature sensor, and an equalization stage. For installers who want to tune charging to a specific battery.

Match the panel to the battery

The one rule that matters with PWM: the panel must suit the battery voltage. For 12 V use a 36-cell solar panel; for 24 V use a 72-cell panel (or two 36-cell in series); for the 48 V model use two 72-cell (or four 36-cell) panels in series. High-voltage grid-tie panels need an MPPT.

Choose your model

Features

• Load output with low-voltage disconnect — run lights or DC loads and disconnect them before the battery is over-discharged.
• Day/night lighting timer — a pre-set on-time after dusk, ideal for solar lighting.
• Three-stage charging — bulk, absorption, float (programmable on the Pro, fixed on the Light).
• PWM-Pro extras — fully programmable algorithm, integrated battery monitor (state of charge shown on the optional Remote Panel), optional temperature sensor with -30 / -60 mV/°C compensation, and an equalization stage.
• Comprehensive protection — battery reverse polarity (fuse), output short circuit, over-temperature, and overload (shuts down on sustained 130% / 160% load).

Specifications

FAQs

Q: Light or Pro?
PWM-Light for simple, set-and-forget charging at the lowest price. PWM-Pro when you want to program the charge algorithm (PC software or Remote Panel), see state of charge, or add a temperature sensor.

Q: Will any solar panel work?
No — the panel must match the battery voltage: a 36-cell panel for 12 V, a 72-cell panel (or 2× 36-cell in series) for 24 V. High-voltage grid-tie panels need an MPPT.

Q: Is there a model with a built-in display and USB?
Yes — see the BlueSolar PWM with LCD & USB range, which adds an LCD and two USB charging ports.

Q: Can it charge lithium?
These lead-acid-focused PWM controllers are best for AGM, GEL, and Flooded batteries. For lithium, use a controller with a dedicated LiFePO4 profile (the LCD&USB PWM or, better, an MPPT).

Q: Does it connect to an app or GX device?
No. These are standalone — no Bluetooth, VE.Direct, or GX. The Pro can be programmed and monitored via PC software or the optional Remote Panel.

Q: What's the warranty?
A 5-year limited Victron warranty, fully supported through us as an authorized distributor.

Not sure which model or panel pairing fits? Email support@bluemarine.com or call (800) 628-6306.

Why buy your Victron PWM controller from Blue Marine

• Authorized Victron Energy Distributor — genuine product, fully supported warranty.
• ABYC-certified Advisors — real solar sizing help, not a call center.
• Free US shipping over $49 from our Seattle warehouse.
• 60-day hassle-free returns.
• Local pickup available in Seattle, WA.
• Custom quotes & full system design — request a quote for a complete build.
• Dealer & installer program — apply here for trade pricing.