What are Portable Solar Panels?

When people think of solar panels, they usually think of expensive, large systems that they have to place on top of their roofs. However, with new technologies, solar panels are becoming portable, more affordable, and capable of generating power on the go.

What They Are

Solar panels are large panels that convert light into electricity with the use of photovoltaic cells. Portable solar panels are the same, except that they are smaller. They also have design features that are not feasible in a traditional solar panel, like being foldable and having a carrying case.

To use them, you also need a controller that regulates the power output. If you want to store your energy, you’ll also need a battery.

How Much Power You’ll Need

How much power you’ll need depends on what exactly you’re looking to generate. If you just need to charge your phone while camping, something as small as a 45-watt solar panel charger would be good enough.

If you want some light and to use a mini fridge, you’ll want to upgrade that to a 120-watt panel.

If you have an RV and need enough power to maintain its systems, a 160-watt panel is the way to go.

Finally, if you’re looking to go completely off-grid and need to power your appliances, the 320-watt panel is what you’ll need.

Which Type of Solar Panel to Get

There are also three different types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film panels.

If you want to get the most efficient one, the monocrystalline is the way to go. Even though it’s the most expensive, you’ll have an efficiency higher than 20% and will have a durable panel.

If you want a cheaper one, the polycrystalline panels are the better option. They’re still fairly efficient, but don’t cost as much.

Finally, the thin film panels are great as portable panels because they’re so light and foldable. They perform below 20% but you’ll be able to apply it to a curved surface (like the side of your RV).

When choosing which type to get, really think about what you’re using it for and where you’ll want to place it. If you’re looking for top, off-grid efficiency, you’ll probably want to get the monocrystalline panels and attach them to the top of your RV or camper. If you’re just charging a small phone, the thin film panels are probably your better option.

Comparing Solar Panels

One of the other main things you’ll need to look for is which solar panel you’re going to get. This means you’ll have to compare them and figure out which one is best for your needs. So, how do you compare them?

First, by their STC rating, which will inform you how it will perform in ideal conditions - a sunny day, for example.

Then, see how many cells it has versus the others.

Check the robust frame load to see if it can handle windstorms or deal with being covered in snow, especially if you want to use it for long journeys.

If you plan on vacationing out by the ocean, you can check its salt and ammonia resistance.

Figure out how long a warranty it has, especially since it’ll be going through extra wear and tear if you’re planning on taking it out a lot.

Perhaps most importantly, check for the IEC 61215 stamp, which will let you know that it can stand a wide array of weather conditions.

All in all, choosing the right portable solar panel is a personal choice, so follow your gut.

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