Electrical Solar Panels
Solar panels let a boat, van or skoolie recharge its batteries without running an engine or plugging in. A charge controller sits between the panels and the battery bank; MPPT controllers are generally more efficient than PWM, especially with higher-voltage panel strings.
Size the array from your daily energy use, available roof or deck space and how much sun you expect. Our skoolie electrical basics guide and Victron basics guide cover controllers and system layout.
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Electrical Solar Panels FAQ
Rigid or flexible panels?
Rigid framed panels are generally more durable and run cooler. Flexible panels are lighter and can follow curved surfaces, which suits some decks and roofs.
Do I need a charge controller?
Yes. A charge controller regulates panel output so the batteries are charged correctly and not overcharged.
Series or parallel wiring?
Series raises voltage (less current, thinner wire, works well with MPPT); parallel keeps voltage low and handles partial shading differently. The controller's input voltage limit decides what's possible.
How do I estimate how much solar I need?
Estimate your daily watt-hours of use, then compare it with the panels' rated output and realistic sun hours for where you travel. Real output is usually below the panel rating.