Solar Panels

The required solar panel power depends on how much energy you want to generate and what you plan to charge or power with it. A smaller panel may be sufficient for charging electronics or a small battery, while greater energy needs require a more powerful panel or several solar panels working together.

A panel’s rated power is stated in watts (W). It is important to remember that a solar panel does not continuously produce its rated power, as actual output is affected by factors such as weather, season, panel orientation, temperature and shading.

Yes. A solar panel also produces electricity in cloudy weather because diffuse sunlight still reaches the solar cells. However, output is generally considerably lower than in bright, direct sunlight.

So clouds do not give your solar panel the whole day off – they simply slow the pace down a little.

Yes. Solar panels are very well suited for cabins, camper vans, caravans and boats where mains electricity is not always easily available.

A more permanent solar power system can be installed at a cabin, while fixed or flexible solar panels can be used on recreational vehicles and boats. A foldable solar panel is a good choice when you want to move, reposition or carry the panel with you.

A standard solar panel should generally not be connected directly to a battery. A charge controller is usually required between the solar panel and the battery to regulate the voltage and current from the panel and ensure safe and efficient battery charging.

Some devices, such as portable power stations, have built-in solar charging control. Always check the compatibility of the solar panel, charge controller, battery or other receiving device before making any connections.

Yes, as long as the solar panel and power station are compatible. A solar panel is an excellent way to charge a portable power station at a cabin, in a camper van, on a boat or while camping without access to mains electricity.

Pay particular attention to the power station’s supported solar charging voltage, current and power range, as well as the connectors used. When correctly matched, a solar panel and portable power station form a flexible off-grid power solution.

Yes. Several compatible solar panels can be connected together to achieve a higher total power output. Depending on the system, the panels can be connected in series, in parallel or using a combination of both.

The connection method affects the system’s voltage and current, so the electrical limits of the charge controller, inverter, battery or power station must also be taken into account. If you are unsure about sizing or connecting a multi-panel system, the safest option is to have the setup checked by a qualified professional before installation.