Solar - Permanent mount or portable?

obiwancanoli wrote:
As I work through the process of upgrading batteries, either a 4-jar bank of Lithium 100Ah 12V, one 300Ah + a 100 Ah, or two 200 Ah, I'm also researching the addition of more solar panels to the roof of my Class A. My boondocking plans in the years to come require a more serious look at power needs and requirements.

Currently, I have 3 - 160W solar panels - 26.1 amps total output, fixed to the roof, a 30A PWM Controller, and have room for up to 4-5 more, depending on configuration. Of course, will need a new Controller if I do so. For the solar wattage I'm considering, some sites have suggested an 80A MPPT Controller. I initially thought a 60A would do the trick, but I was basing that on the total amp output of all panels. I also have a 120W, 5.6A portable.

I'm thinking I might be better off using portable panels. As a practical matter, at 100-120W per portable panel, I'd need at least 3, probably 4 to reach my goal.

It might make sense to have some of my charging capacity in panels I can move around when shade impedes. I understand some can be hooked together, but then, there's the inconvenience of having to store, set up, and take down 4 folding portable panels. Perhaps just two?

I understand each person will have different needs and requirements, but is this a balance some strike, where solar is concerned? Or are there 'druthers out there who swear by one way or the other?

As an aside, I have a Trav'ler II mounted to my roof, but have considered picking up a portable sat dish - again, when I find myself in the trees...

I have nearly the exact set up you do except mine is 3-150's. Fixed on the roof, no adjusting. 30a controller. When I first got it the controller was up over the bed in a cabinet. It sorta kept up with my needs. Since then I revamped my set up and put new combiner box. Gather all the panels in the combiner box using 10ga duplex wire from the panels to the box. Then #4 welding cable from the box to the new controller location real close to the batteries. I think if you want the convenience of having fixed panels on the roof, no tilting or anything like that you need to build the system stout w/o compromise on the wire size and get the controller as close you your batteries as possible. That, in my opinion is the cost of "screwed down not tilt-able" solar panels convenience. My 450w and PWM-30a controller charge my 4-6v batteries very well. I do a lot of winter camping and we use our super in-efficient furnace in the trailer at night and use a Buddy heater in the morning and evening. Don't have an inverter. Don't watch TV. So for us it's the lights, pump, and furnace. I'm careful how I park regarding shade. I'm at the point that I really no longer have concern if my batteries charge. It all just works and I want for nothing power wise. But some of that is because our only high draw is the furnace.