Hello! I am new to electronics so please forgive me. I just want to have some advice or insights. What do you think about this solar powered using just this battery and solar panel. Is this enough power or okay for the esp32 and the battery for charging with solar panel?
If I remember correctly, the TP5100 cannot directly recharge two LiPo batteries connected in series. The TP5100 is designed for charging single-cell (3.7V) or parallel LiPo battery configurations and does not support series configurations (7.4V for two cells in series).
To charge a 2S (7.4V) LiPo pack safely, you need a balance charger or a charger specifically designed for multi-cell LiPo packs.
Look at products like Adafruit Universal USB / DC / Solar Lithium Ion/Polymer charger [bq24074] : ID 4755 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits, use LiPo in parallel and boost voltage if needed.
As to the question about "enough power", it depends on how much you'll draw, how much sun you get and the specifics of your solar panel .... So we can't say.
It would be more efficient without double conversion.
You could use single 18650 and 3.3V ultra low dropout voltage regulator powering directly to Esp 3.3V pin. For low currents the dropout can be ~0.1V.
If you go with double conversion, you can use power bank with built in solar panel as well.
Hi, I just ordered the Firebeetle ESP32 C6 for a very similar project. It integrates a solar charger for this purpose, using a single battery. This avoids the double conversion. I guess your ESP32 will be in deep sleep most of time, then you may consider switching off the sensors with a Mosfet to save the battery.