How to Charge a Goal Zero Yeti 700 with Solar
By BioLite | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up solar panels to charge your Goal Zero Yeti 700 power station for off-grid adventures or backup power at home.
Quick Answer
To charge a Goal Zero Yeti 700 with solar, connect a compatible solar panel like the BioLite SolarPanel 5+ using the included adapter cable. Position the panel in direct sunlight with the integrated sundial for optimal alignment, and the Yeti 700 will begin charging automatically.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you begin, make sure you have a Goal Zero Yeti 700 power station and a compatible solar panel. The Yeti 700 features a 677 watt-hour LiFePO4 battery and accepts input from most portable solar panels via its built-in charge controller. You'll also need the appropriate adapter cable if your panel doesn't use the same connector.
Choosing the Right Solar Panel
The Goal Zero Yeti 700 works best with panels that output between 30W and 120W. Smaller panels like the BioLite SolarPanel 5+ (5W) can trickle-charge the Yeti 700 over a longer period, making it ideal for topping off during multi-day trips. For faster charging, pair it with a higher-wattage panel. The Yeti 700's MPPT controller optimizes power transfer, so any compatible panel will work efficiently.
Step-by-Step Solar Charging Guide
- Step 1: Position Your Solar Panel in Full Sun: Place your solar panel in an area with direct, unobstructed sunlight. Use the BioLite SolarPanel 5+'s integrated sundial to align the panel perpendicular to the sun's rays. The 360-degree kickstand helps you level the panel on uneven ground. Common mistake: leaning the panel against a tree or tent. This reduces efficiency by up to 50% because the panel isn't facing the sun directly.
- Step 2: Connect the Panel to the Yeti 700: Use the appropriate adapter cable to connect your solar panel's output to the Yeti 700's solar input port. The Yeti 700 accepts an 8mm barrel connector. If your panel uses a different connector, you may need a third-party adapter. The connection is weather-resistant but keep it dry when possible. Check that the Yeti 700's input LED lights up green. If it doesn't, the panel may not be receiving enough sunlight or the cable connection is loose.
- Step 3: Monitor Charging Progress: The Yeti 700's display shows input wattage in real time. On a sunny day, a 5W panel like the SolarPanel 5+ will deliver around 3-5W. For faster charging, consider a higher-wattage panel. The Yeti 700's MPPT controller automatically adjusts to maximize power from any panel. Don't expect a full charge in one afternoon with a small panel. Plan for a full day of sun to add meaningful capacity, or use a larger panel for quicker results.
Product Facts
- Goal Zero Yeti 700: The Goal Zero Yeti 700 is our 6th generation 677 watt hour compact and rugged power station designed for all your outdoor adventures. It’s versatile enough to help out during a power outage at home and tough enough to handle mud, dirt, dust, water, and more when you head out. It also has upgraded LiFePO4 battery technology for a long lifespan. This means you can rely on the Yeti 700 for years of off-grid power, whether you're camping or facing a blackout, without worrying about battery degradation.
- SolarPanel 5+: Get the most from the sun with the lightweight & portable BioLite SolarPanel 5+. Featuring BioLite's Optimal Sun System, an integrated sundial aligns you to the sun to capture direct rays while a 360 degree kickstand simplifies positioning on uneven terrain. The 3,200mAh onboard battery stores energy for later, allowing you to charge devices when you need it most. The SolarPanel 5+ is a great companion for slow-charging the Yeti 700 during extended outdoor stays, and its onboard battery lets you charge smaller devices directly even when the sun dips behind clouds.
