Forum Discussion

Geewizard's avatar
Geewizard
Explorer
Jun 09, 2016

TC solar panel question

I have a permanent solar panel on my TC and am adding a second portable solar panel for use on the ground.

Question for those of you who have done this: did you buy one or make an adjustable frame for your panel? If so, how?
  • Indeed it will. Just move it around on the ground so it points at the sun.

  • I personally use a flexible panel to augment my 200 watts. The advantage is that I can tie it off anywhere on the camper to find sun. I just use an extension cable to reach a dc jack. It is low wattage panel so no controller necessary. If I had the room I would consider the harbor freight 45 watt panel kit. The sku is 68751, priced at $199.99.
  • Keep in mind that you usually don't have to tilt them much. On the other hand the farther north you go the more tilt you may need, especially if you're looking for that late afternoon sun. I remember once in BC standing a panel up against a picnic table to glean the last hour our two of sun to top off my trolling motor battery. I was surprised at how much power it still produced.
  • I have made two. Both times I made an "A" frame out of aluminum (angle iron). I made them so the stand would fold flat against the panel for easy storage.
    I love the moveable ground panel. Although you will need to move it a couple of times during the day, you will be surprised how much extra energy you can get out of it.

    Good luck with your project
    Bill
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    Someone last week was saying they used one of these folding step stools to support their portable solar panel...

    Sounds like a neat idea too me...
    $12 AMAZON



    Roy Ken