180w Flexible Durable Solar Panel Complete Kit with Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 75/15 - (These kits are perfect for pop top roofs VW T6/T5/T4)
Highly efficient Black German Cells
This 180w Flexible Durable Solar Panel Kit is designed for off-grid, campervans, motorhomes and yachts/boats. The included Victron SmartSolar MPPT 75/15 charge controller ensures maximum power output and efficient charging of your battery. The panel is also flexible, making it easy to install on various surfaces. This kit is perfect for those looking to set up a reliable and efficient solar power system for campervan conversions, boats, motorhomes and other mobile applications.
Kit Contents
- 180w Semi-Flexible Durable Black Solar Panel 1470 x 665 x 4 mm
- Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 75/15
- Sikaflex 522 Caravan / Motorhome Adhesive
- Pair of MC4 Connectors
- 10 Metres of 6mm PV Cable ( 2 * 5m Black)
- 2 year warranty on the Solar Panel
- 5 year warranty on Victron MPPT
Solar Panel Specifications:
Aluminum reinforcement and strong ETFE coating:
This reinforced semi-flexible solar panel has a unique 7-layer construction, featuring an embedded sheet of anodised aluminum fully encapsulated within the solar panel. This additional reinforcement offers greater strength and resilience, making this one of the most robust semi-flexible solar panels available on the market.
In addition to the aluminum reinforcement, the surface of this 180W semi-flexible solar panel is made of strong ETFE material which has a longer service life compared to standard semi-flexible solar panels. As a result, these particular semi-flexible solar panels are extremely hard-wearing and less prone to cracking , delamination and corrosion. The lightly textured coating of this panel creates an anti-reflective surface which allows the panel to absorb a far greater amount of light, thereby increasing efficiency. ETFE material has long been used in applications where durability and high-temperature resistance is required, such as in the Eden Project, Cornwall. You can read more about ETFE and its benefits here.
High quality German 5-busbar solar cells:
The high-efficiency monocrystalline German solar cells used in this solar panel have excellent performance in low light conditions (particularly when compared to solar cells of unknown origin) and they produce a good amount of power even in daylight - when direct sunlight is not available. These long-lasting German solar cells will provide many years of consistent, free power.
This panel also features innovative 5 busbar solar cells, which are more efficient than the 2, 3 or 4 busbar solar cells used in most other solar panels, and are able to extract more power from the same surface area. This results in a smaller overall solar panel, which is ideal for applications where space is limited. These solar cells are also the best choice for applications in warmer climates, as they operate well even in high ambient temperatures.
Simple, professional installation:
This particular model features the junction box and cable on the rear side of the panel to create a completely level surface and professional finish after installation. Unlike other solar panels, the junction box on this solar panel is a circular shape with only one dual core cable (3m length) attached, allowing for simplified installation. Please note: in order for this panel to be flush-mounted, a recess must be cut in to the roof/surface.
This solar panel has a unique black backing, making this solar panel ideal for discreet and aesthetically pleasing installation on dark coloured roofs, vehicles or mounting surfaces. Please note that this solar panel is not 'ultra jet-black' - the exact hue may vary marginally from panel to panel, depending on the batch of solar cells.
Other benefits:
Semi-flexible design makes it ideal for slightly curved roofs and surfaces where bonding is preferable (though the panel can also be fixed by bolts or screws)
The panel is incredibly light (only 5kg) which is great for all vehicles
High resistance to salt water environment (junction box and cables underneath are protected from contact with water) and possibility to walk on the panel make it perfect for boats and yachts
Sealed waterproof design ensures the panel can be used in all weather conditions
Junction box on the back allows for a smooth and level surface, free of trip hazards and unsightly cables. Round shape for easy fitting.
Fitted with a single length of high quality 3m dual core cable for easy installation and wiring
Solar panel specifications:
- Peak power: 180W
- Maximum power voltage: 20.2V
- Maximum power current: 8.91A
- Open circuit voltage: 23.9V
- Short circuit current: 9.44A
- Power allowance range: +/- 5%
- Solar Panel dimensions: 1470 x 665 x 4 mm
- Junction Box diameter: 30 mm
- Weight: 5.90 kg
- 1 x 3m high quality dual core solar cable attached (4mm cross section)
MPPT Specifications
The Victron 75V 15A MPPT controller comes from the intelligent SmartSolar range, which uses the latest ultrafast MPPT technology to maximise energy harvest whilst maintaining optimal battery health. This SmartSolar MPPT controller uniquely features built-in Bluetooth, to allow remote system monitoring via any Bluetooth enabled device, in addition to an intelligent BatteryLife function .
Ultrafast MPPT Technology:
This 15A MPPT solar charge controller is designed to deliver the highest possible energy yield in the shortest amount of time. This is achieved through the use of high speed Maximum Power Point Tracking technology, which tracks the maximum power voltage point of the solar panels as it varies depending on sunlight exposure and temperature.
This technology enables the controller to produce up to 30% greater energy yield than PWM controllers and as much as 10% more power than slower MPPT controllers. This advanced technology allows the controller to perform extremely well in low-light or cloudy conditions, as the controller consistently strives to extract the maximum available power from the solar array.
Inbuilt safety protection:
Fully equipped with an extensive range of safety features, this controller offers complete protection against potential hazards such as battery reverse polarity, load short circuit, low-voltage load disconnect and battery overheating - monitored via the internal temperature sensor. The controller also has self-diagnostic capability and highlights any system errors using sophisticated fault-targeting technology. These are signalled via the high intensity LED indicators.
Intelligent 'BatteryLife' function:
To prevent complete discharge of the battery and avoid potentially permanent damage, this controller is equipped with the Victron BatteryLife function; a state-of-the-art feature designed to extend the lifetime of the battery by monitoring and controlling the output of excessive loads. Using an intelligent algorithm, the controller will continuously monitor the battery state of charge, and if required (e.g. during periods of poor weather), will gradually adjust the load disconnect threshold until a full 100% recharge is consistently achieved on a weekly basis. Alternatively, the load voltage disconnect point can be manually configured to your preferred level, using the VictronConnect software (see below).
Inbuilt Bluetooth:
This SmartSolar charge controller features built-in Bluetooth which allows the user to easily connect to any Bluetooth enabled device, such as a mobile phone, tablet or iPad in order to access the VictronConnect App (no additional Bluetooth dongle required). The mobile app unlocks numerous possibilities for advanced programming and remote monitoring of your Victron SmartSolar system. Once the controller is paired with the app, a wide range of additional features are made available, including:
Live data transmission: Real-time information is displayed including solar panel output, battery voltage and current (flowing into and out of the battery) as well as battery state of charge.
Detailed data logs: System activity for the past 30 days is available to view; either as in-depth daily logs or as a monthly summary. These easy-view graphics display daily energy yield, maximum recorded power and voltage, time spent in each charging stage, minimum and maximum recorded battery voltages, error records and total energy counters.
Load configuration: Option to choose from one of the pre-set load management programs or create a user-defined program. Includes a streetlight function to control the duration and brightness of nighttime lighting.
The VictronConnect App is also available to download as a PC version, for computers without bluetooth connectivity. If you would like to use the PC version of the app to monitor/program your SmartSolar system, this controller can be connected to your PC via a VE Direct USB cable.
Optional Remote LCD Display:
The user can connect an optional MPPT Control panel (sold separately) to the controller to access a range of monitoring and programming functions. The display shows charging parameters (voltage, current, power) for the solar panel, battery and load, as well as 30 day performance data. The user can also adjust the load settings and specifically set the duration and voltage of each charging stage.
Other features:
The Victron SmartSolar MPPT 75/15 model is ideal for a wide range of applications as it is resistant to extreme temperatures, high altitudes, dusty environments and marine environments. The unit enclosure is IP43 water resistant with resin encapsulation of the internal electrical components and has a PD3 pollution rating.
This solar charge controller is also compatible with a wide range of battery types, including AGM, Gel, Tubular plate and Lithium batteries.
Advantages of Solar
Solar panels are a great addition to caravans, campervans and motorhomes for a number of reasons. Not only do they provide a clean and renewable source of energy, but they also offer a number of practical advantages that make them a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road.
One of the biggest advantages of solar panels in caravans and campervans is that they allow you to be more self-sufficient while you're traveling. With a solar panel system, you can generate your own electricity, which means you don't have to rely on hooking up to external power sources. This is especially useful when you're camping in remote areas where there may not be any electrical outlets nearby.
Another advantage of solar panels in caravans, campervans and motorhomes is that they can help you save money on your energy bills. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce your reliance on more expensive sources of power, such as gasoline generators or hooking up to the grid. This can help you save money on fuel and other energy costs, making solar panels a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Solar panels are also easy to install and maintain, which makes them a convenient choice for caravans and campervans. They are relatively lightweight, so they won't add a lot of extra weight to your vehicle, and they can be easily mounted on the roof or other parts of your caravan or campervan.
In addition to the practical advantages, solar panels are also environmentally friendly. They produce clean, renewable energy, which means they don't produce any harmful emissions or contribute to climate change. This makes them a great choice for anyone who is looking to reduce their carbon footprint while they're on the road.
Overall, solar panels are a great addition to caravans, campervans and motorhomes for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road. They offer a convenient and cost-effective way to generate your own electricity, and they are easy to install and maintain. Plus, they are environmentally friendly, making them a win-win for both practicality and sustainability.