Solar Panel advice please.

[TerryIvybridge]

Probably been asked loads before but can anyone offer best advice regards a Solar Panel Kit for our caravan please? We are finding ourselves out priced now, even lots of CS are expensive now with EHU. I need advice on value for money set-up, price etc and it needs to be a kit because of impending holiday at a THS.
Thanks in advance.

 

[chrisn7]

As an example only, you might wish to choose something along these lines:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/150W-Solar-Panel-Mono-12V-Kit-Full-Mounting-Brackets-for-Caravans-Boat-Motorhome-/292036737063?var=&hash=item43febef827:m:mV19ecKdlwqP6bJa4zlGHTw

As we don't go off EHU, I chose a 100w panel, but those who do may select larger wattage panel(s). The black controller in the image is the exact one I have, which has been in over 12 months now with no issues. However, others do advocate a more sophisticated control panel.
Personally I would select a kit with 6 brackets, being 4 corner and 2 side, to minimise panel flex on the move, and provide maximum bonding area to the roof. Don't buy a 4 corner kit then try to buy the side brackets later, as they may not have the same height (I know this!). The advantage of a kit is that you get all the correct cable (and plenty of it) and waterproof connectors

 

[TerryIvybridge]

Looking on Ebay, Amazon etc, it's a minefield. So many different options out there. a friend has a folding 60 watt panel that he mounts on the roof whilst he's encamped. He reckons an 80 watt would be best but I'm still looking for a suitable one that has good reviews.

 

[TerryIvybridge]

I've found lots of advice now here on an earlier post. How I missed on my search I have no idea!

 

[StevieRuss]

Probably been asked loads before but can anyone offer best advice regards a Solar Panel Kit for our caravan please? We are finding ourselves out priced now, even lots of CS are expensive now with EHU. I need advice on value for money set-up, price etc and it needs to be a kit because of impending holiday at a THS.
Thanks in advance.

You've probably sorted this now but.

I bought ours from Photonicuniverse (no personal connection to their business but they are very helpful).

I bought their £169 semi flexible panel with back contact cells which I've had producing up to 7amps in perfect overhead sun. I'd recommend a decent solar charge controller (ideal MPPT). We literally glued ours to the roof which works very well and as it is back contact cells, it's surprisingly small.

I'm adding another panel for peace of mind so my choice of a 20amp controller will deal with a little over 250watts.