RV NET solar install?

mchero wrote:
So, If I can get three 250W panes on the roof I'll go for it.

If - "IF" - you install 3*250W panels, then yes, you need 60A controller. Most likely Morningstar TS 60. TS 45 will work too, and will save you some dough compared to TS 60, and you will rarely have it running at max 45A unless it's some bright and cool day at high elevations.

Same wiring choices apply - series wiring with no rooftop box, or parallel with short AWG 8 to the inside junction box. If you run AWG 8 down the fridge vent, there is probably some closet nearby where you can install a junction box. Or do a parallel wiring with rooftop box.

Your stated energy needs can be covered with 400-500W array, but it won't hurt to get more. Besides, very few people can estimate their energy needs realistically. Now you think it's just "lights, 2 laptops and TV", then your partner plugs in 1000W hair drier for half an hour, or each of you wants a cup of coffee few times a day and insists on making it on 1,500W coffee maker. Add a microwave, 110V vacuum and few other high-power gadgets and 750W solar might not even be enough.

You could exceed your daily solar harvest even without those evil kitchen machines - say, you run a 12V Fan-Tastic fan on the High speed for 20 hours because the weather is not hot enough to warrant an A/C with generator. Add some TV, lights, a few clouds in the sky, and battery can't get to 90% by the evening, so you have to run a genny for an hour or so. Better than running it all day though.

Cheap controllers... yeah, you can run 3 Eco controllers with 3*250W panels and save more money, BFL is right. Each Eco with its own not remote-able display, and you won't have a remote temp sensor or remote voltage sense either. If you're fulltiming and want to be able to rely on your solar and batteries, this alternative doesn't look too attractive.