RV FEATURE
SOLAR: QUIET, CLEAN AND CAMP-FRIENDLY
Solar is the preferred solution for most free-campers. It is silent, renewable and well-suited to Australia’ s sunny climate. Modern panels typically use one of three cell types:
• Monocrystalline panels are efficient and perform best in direct sunlight;
• Polycrystalline panels are slightly less efficient but can perform better in lower light; and
• Amorphous thin film cells are used in flexible panels and blankets. They are lighter but generally less efficient.
Choosing the right setup depends on how you camp.
Flexible panels are lighter but generally less efficient.
Hard-mounted panels on a caravan roof or vehicle roof rack are convenient and always work when the sun is out. The downside is you may need to park in full sun to maximise charging, which can mean sacrificing shade.
Portable panels and solar blankets offer flexibility. You can park your vehicle or van in the shade and run the panel out into the sun. They are lightweight and easy to store, though they require setting up and packing down each day.
A quality regulator is critical. A Maximum Power Point Tracking controller is generally more efficient than a basic PWM unit and can significantly improve charging performance. Do not just chase the cheapest option. Quality panels and regulators will outperform bargain units in realworld conditions.
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