The solar panel size you need for your RV depends on a few factors: how much power your RV needs, your budget, the size and shape of the RV, how you plan to use the solar panel, and how much sunlight you get where you’re parked. You also need to know the wattage of your RV. This is the power your RV draws when all appliances are running.
RV solar sizing is a different approach than what would be done for a home install where we build a system to fit the consumption. We do not have the space in a RV to satisfy max consumption, so we have to fit our consumption into what our system can deliver.
Use this solar calculator to size your campervan or RV camper solar setup. If your device doesn't specify watts, use the watt calculator to convert amps and volts. List each device - every electrical component - its usage in watts, maximum number of hours used each day & if it's an AC or DC model.
The ideal solar panel configuration depends on the size of your campervan and your power needs. For small campervans with limited roof space and minimal power requirements, consider using one or two 100-150 watt monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels.
Choose the size closest to your solar panel set up. Each has a complete list of the components needed. Choose your solar panels. There’s a number of different types and you can read more about them in our camper solar panels post. Once you’ve selected the type of panel, measure the available space on the roof so you know what sizes to buy.
If you plan to use an air conditioner, you’ll need a larger panel size—usually between 150 and 200 watts. Your panels should be tilted towards the sun for optimum performance. The wire size you need for your RV solar panel will depend on the wattage of your solar panels and the amount of current your RV can handle.