A power management system is presented for the control of multiple compressors driven by photovoltaic panels, which allows for maximum exploitation of the solar energy. The system finds application in batteryless refrigeration/heating arrangements with variable speed compressors. The operation of the system is based on an efficient compressor startup circuit, a maximum power tracking subsystem and a smart control pattern for the number of operating compressors and their speed. A prototype system was built for a solar icemaker and exhibited near-excellent energy utilization.