portable fold up solar panel

[Tookey]

Anyone use one to assist their PV system. The scenario I'm thinking about is when static for a couple of days or more, I have the roof space to lie one out but dont want an additional fixed panel up there because I'm trying to keep weight low down. I haven't installed anything yet so I can get the kit to handle the increased wattage. Any thoughts welcome

 

[SquirrellCook]

I was thinking something along this line https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/60-150-2...var=603107885235&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649 for the Betty Build, but then remembered I'll need 2 as it's 24 volts.
Remember it will still add to your weight as you'll need to carry it.

 

[wildebus]

Anyone use one to assist their PV system. The scenario I'm thinking about is when static for a couple of days or more, I have the roof space to lie one out but dont want an additional fixed panel up there because I'm trying to keep weight low down. I haven't installed anything yet so I can get the kit to handle the increased wattage. Any thoughts welcome

I have one arriving tomorrow actually to supplement my roof solar
It is identical to the 100W Photonic Universe Panel within this listing - https://wildebus.com/product/solar-panels-high-efficiency-folding-kits/
That kit is showing as £214.99 but I can do you a £90 discount off that specific size (the other sizes are still the shown price).

The 100W Kit is 12.4Kg. I like this type over the "floppy" type SquirrelCook posted for the ability to stand them up and position, but if just laying flat on a roof that feature may not matter?

I was thinking something along this line https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/60-150-200W-Waterproof-Folding-Solar-Charge-Panel-Board-Bag-Kit-w-Controller-UK/303933589768?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=603107885235&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649 for the Betty Build, but then remembered I'll need 2 as it's 24 volts.
Remember it will still add to your weight as you'll need to carry it.

Mr SQ, something to consider with the type like in my link ... they are a pair of 12V panels connected in parallel and feed into a PWM Controller. There is no reason why you couldn't easily rewire them to be in series so it is a 24V setup instead and then connect into your 100/75.
(I'll be rewiring the kit I am getting to feed into an MPPT 75/15 instead of the built in PWM. In my case I am doing that so I can monitor it with the other solar array but the provided PWM is decent enough within the limits of PWM units)

 

[molly 2]

I have been doing it for a couple of years ,I' get much more from portable than roof both 100w for ease of storage consider a light weight semi flexi

 

[wildebus]

Folding kits arrived yesterday...

For a size reference, the floorboards are approx 18cm wide

Side view - this is "lowest angle" and you can adjust to go more vertical with the arms (or I guess just lean on something suitable?)

And folded & back in the padded case

I need to examine in more detail to see the best way but I think you could use the securing clip (that does the lock when folded) or maybe the handy to loop a chain through to secure to an immovable object to stop someone simply picking up and walking away with it (always a potential risk with portable panels).

 

[molly 2]

Nice kit dave .

 

[wildebus]

Nice kit dave .

They are.
There is a nicer kit I got for someone last year which was a lightweight folding panel kit and is the same size but half the weight - however that was significantly more expensive
Like anything, it is generally possible to improve if you are willing to spend the dosh, but I am well pleased with these for the money

 

[izwozral]

Folding kits arrived yesterday...
View attachment 96572
For a size reference, the floorboards are approx 18cm wide

Side view - this is "lowest angle" and you can adjust to go more vertical with the arms (or I guess just lean on something suitable?)
View attachment 96573

And folded & back in the padded case
View attachment 96574


I need to examine in more detail to see the best way but I think you could use the securing clip (that does the lock when folded) or maybe the handy to loop a chain through to secure to an immovable object to stop someone simply picking up and walking away with it (always a potential risk with portable panels).

I have one of those folding panels and it's great, slim enough to tuck behind the seats or in the shower when stowed and great for tracking the sun when in use.
SECURITY: I have been thinking of a way to secure to the side or rear of the van by using a locking bracket or two shooting bolts that go through the frame. Still musing on ideas, if you come up with a brainwave give us a nod!