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The idea of clean and cheap energy has been under the limelight for a few decades now, with experts and corporations exploring new ways to produce sustainable energy from renewable sources.
Solar panels are the result of that quest and have been around for decades now. They have recently become quite popular, mainly because of their applications and benefits.
With the advancement in technology, the genre of solar energy has also refined a lot, so much so that you can carry your energy harnessing source anywhere with you.
Yes! Finally, solar panels are available that can be bent to adapt to different shapes and carried along on expeditions and tours.
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A flexible solar panel is a thin sheet of plastic containing solar cells that harness the sunlight’s energy and can be bent in different shapes, thanks to the flexible material and tensile strength of the advanced solar cells used in them. Modern solar panels are also super lightweight.
In contrast, conventional solar panels come in a rectangular shape, are rigid due to the metal/plastic casing, and can only be installed on the rooftops for power production.
So if you’re worried about your RV’s power source, a flexible solar panel would solve all your power-related anxieties.
Table of Contents
- What are Flexible Solar Panels Made of?
- Flexible Solar Panels – Reliable Power Solution for Ultimate Off-roading and Adventures
- What are the Best Flexible Solar Panels?
- A Good Option – SunPower Flexible Solar Panel
- A Better Option – Renogy 100watt Solar Flexible Kit
- The Best Option – Sunflare XPLOR Solar Panels
- Which Flexible Solar Panels are Best for RVs and Motorhomes?
- Factors to Consider Before Buying Flexible Solar Panels
What are Flexible Solar Panels Made Of?
Like conventional panels, flexible solar panels have solar cells that harness the energy from sunlight and store it in batteries. The solar cells in a flexible solar panel are made of silicon or high-strength metal alloys that help them absorb maximum energy and withstand high temperatures and pressure.
Unlike conventional panels, the solar cells in a flexible solar panel are cased inside a flexible sheet of high-strength plastic. It allows the panel to be bent or shaped. It also makes the panel translucent while allowing the light to pass.
Flexible Solar Panels – Reliable Power Solution for Ultimate Off-roading and Adventures
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If you’re planning off-road trailing on your truck or taking your friends on a weekend adventure in your RV or motorhome, flexible panels are your go-to solution for all the power requirements.
Light in weight, super robust, and highly efficient, a setup of flexible solar panels can be placed on the roof or the trunk bed. These are highly resistant to temperature and high wind pressure. A proper setup can provide you with enough energy to power your LED bars, portable speakers and fans, miniature electric stove, laptops, and smartphones. A generous setup of flexible solar panels can harness enough power to provide you backup for a few days.
So no matter how hard the trail is and how long the weekend is going to be, never miss the fun time with your friends and let the panels look after your power requirements.
What are the Best Flexible Solar Panels?
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There are different flexible solar panels in the market with varying power capacity, charging time, technology, and durability. Although most of the products are reliable and perform really well, based on certain key features and overall performance, we would like to rank some flexible solar panels.
A Good Option – SunPower
The SunPower Flexible Solar Panel is a very good option for optimal power generation and modularity on budget.
It just weighs 4.5 pounds, which makes it super easy to carry, and the 30 degrees of flexibility makes it capable of ample performance for almost any off-grid power requirements.
The SunPower Flexible Solar Panel also provides a respectable power figure of 110 watts.
Key Features
- Lightweight and easy portability.
- 5-year warranty.
- Very good flexibility, but still less as compared to other options, like the Sunflare XPLOR series below.
- Dust and waterproof surface.
A Better Option – Renogy 100watt Solar Kit
The Renogy 100-watt solar flexible kit is a close contender, thanks to its reliable qualities and performance. This flexible solar panel can bend up to 248 degrees and is ultra-lightweight.
It is also a good option for RVs and is highly resistant to damage and scratches because it’s dust and waterproof. Its solar cells are also made with CIGS technology and are suitable for medium power requirements.
Key Features
- Resistant to scratches and other environmental hazards.
- Very lightweight and flexible.
- Good for low-light conversion.
- IP 68, MC4 compatible.
- Good temperature endurance.
The Best Option – Sunflare XPLOR Solar Panels
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If you ask me, the range of Sunflare XPLOR solar panels are the best flexible solar panels you can get right now.
Manufactured using state-of-the-art technology, these panels offer the best features to give you reliable, easy power.
The solar cells are made of CIGS, which enhances energy absorption and power generation. The XPLOR panels are highly resistant to temperatures and can be used to power a variety of electric appliances that you’d need on your weekend away from home.
Additionally, you can get them in three different sizes:
- The 105W Module is 47.3” by 32.6” (1202mm by 828mm) weighing 6.5lbs (2.9kg)
- The 126W Module is 47.3” by 38.9” (1202mm by 990mm) weighing 8lbs (3.6kg)
- The 180W Module is 65.4” by 39.9” (1660mm by 990mm) weighing 11lbs (5kg)
As a result, these panels are an ideal choice for RVs, motor homes, caravans, and other mobility requirements.
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Key Features
- Rugged and highly durable in tough conditions.
- Bypass diode on every cell ensures premium performance and prevents short-circuits.
- Lightweight and flexible.
- Very easy to install, thanks to double adhesive tape.
- Certified by regulatory bodies.
- IP 65, MC4 compatible.
- Temperature endurance, -40o to +185o F
- Can run your gadgets and appliances for up to 30 hours.
- Offered with a 25-year warranty.
I have a Sunflare XPLOR panel mounted on the top of my SMRT Summit Suite Rooftop Tent (shown above). As I noted earlier, it was incredibly easy to install, super lightweight, and highly durable.
With this solar panel part of my overlanding setup, I can extend my off-grid trips without having to sacrifice creature comforts like my morning coffee. With the power this panel collects, I can charge my cameras and my laptop, run the lights on my camper, use the water pump, and much more. Having a reliable power source on my adventures is the peace of mind I want when I head out!
Which Flexible Solar Panels are Best for RVs and Motorhomes?
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While going off-grid, you need to have a reliable power source to look after your electronic appliances and meet your off-road needs. People use their RVs and motorhomes to get away on the weekends and enjoy the wilderness. No outing is complete without late-night music, food and lighting.
To power the lights, speakers, portable fans, and smart LEDs, Sunflare offers a complete range of premium flexible solar panels.
With up to 180W energy, high-temperature resistance, long backup hours, and universal compatibility, Sunflare XPLOR is the optimal choice if you’re looking for the best panels on the market.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Flexible Solar Panels
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You must keep these points in mind before signing the check for flexible panels.
Design and Size
You need to decide the size depending on where and how you need to use the panels. If it’s meant to be used on your car’s sunroof or RV, get a large-size flexible solar panel.
Wattage and Power Rating
Depending on the requirements and appliances you need to feed, get an adequate set of panels. If you need to power lights, speakers, and a TV, get a 350W minimum.
Efficiency
Although not as efficient as conventional solar panels, flexible panels are still good enough for your off-grid requirements and would suffice your adventure needs. Keep in mind that these panels are not going to power your AC or heaters all night.
Durability
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Always invest in a quality product like Sunflare XPLOR, as these come with a 25-year warranty and are known to last quite a long time and tough conditions.
Cost
Budget is the main deciding factor behind a purchase decision. When going to buy a flexible solar panel, remember that better products usually cost more up front, but their longevity and durability means that you’ll end up paying less over the long run.
With that, you have a guide to the best flexible solar panels. All that’s left to do is outfit your rig with one and hit the road!