While efficiency and energy capabilities are important factors, there are other considerations when you’re purchasing solar panels for your RV. Weight: Regular solar panels weigh approximately 40 pounds, while portable ones usually weigh less than 10 pounds. If your RV has weight restrictions, this is a big factor to consider.
We chose the top solar panels for RVs by comparing popular options on Amazon and looking at features like wattage, output, size, price and reviews. This Renogy solar panel starter kit produces an average of 1,000 watt-hours of electricity per day (with five hours of direct sunlight).
Most RV solar panels on this list hover around 22% efficiency. Some of SunPower’s solar panels have a maximum efficiency rating of 25%, making them the most efficient we found. Looking for a solar energy company?
Unlike the large, heavy solar panels you might install on the roof of your home, RVers need panels that are either compact enough to fit on a vehicle, or portable enough to stow inside.
The foldable panel comes with an adjustable kickstand case that lets you position the panel for optimal sunlight. With this panel, you can still use solar power to charge your RV without having to park the vehicle in direct sunlight. This can help your systems run more efficiently.
How you position your panels will vary quite a bit, depending on whether you use mounted or portable panels. With an RV, you have the option to mount your panels directly on your vehicle. A rigid, mountable panel will be more durable than a portable set, water- and windproof to brave the elements, but they require some elbow grease to install.