Your guide to motorhome solar panels

This is the modern world, and these days there are several models of motorhome and campervan which come ready equipped with solar panels. However, many older models do not. A survey by one of the UK’s leading leisure vehicle owner associations, the Caravan & Motorhome Club, returned that 86% of respondents had solar panels on their vehicles (with varying numbers of panels per vehicle). Of the remaining number without, almost two-thirds expressed some interest in having solar panels installed. In the age of everyone being aware of the need to try and live more sustainably, having solar panels installed on your vehicle if you don’t already have them is a responsible move.

There are some compelling reasons to consider solar panels for your motorhome or campervan – and the way they work is fascinating.

How do motorhome solar panels work?

Put simply, solar panels convert sunlight into electricity without the use of any moving parts or the process of combustion. Like all other solar panels the ones installed in motorhomes harness the sunlight using photovoltaic cells to convert it into electricity. The electrons in the photovoltaic cells are ‘excited’ by the sunlight, creating a flow of electricity which is then directed to a charge controller. This regulates voltage and current to ensure that the batteries are not overcharged. The stored energy in the batteries can be used to power systems, appliances and devices within the motorhome.

What are the benefits of solar panels in motorhomes?

1.: The primary purpose of solar panels is to provide a reliable power source, reducing the need to use electricity sourced from the traditional ‘grid’. This makes them ideal for remote travel and camping ‘off-grid’ becomes possible. Motorhomers will be able to explore less accessible or conventional areas without worrying about power, so offering more freedom and possibility to connect with nature.

2.: Solar energy – i.e. that which is derived and harnessed from the sun by solar panels - produces no harmful emissions. This means there is the possibility of your carbon footprint being lower, a fact which attracts environmentally conscious travellers to solar panels.

3.: Solar panels provide a constant trickle charge to vehicle batteries – thus maintaining and prolonging battery life, and ensuring continuous power for the essential appliances aboard the motorhome.

4.: Constant power supply means no interruption for essential onboard domestic equipment such as a fridge, freezer compartment, heating, lighting etc. The ‘clean energy’ production also means quieter and more peaceful road trips, without noise pollution. Solar panels operate silently and eliminate the noise associated with generators. This fact alone goes some way to enhancing the overall travel experience. User-friendly installation and minimal maintenance make solar panels a hassle-free addition to motorhomes and campervans.

5.: Smart energy systems allow integration from solar panels, which means you will easily be able to monitor energy production, energy consumption and battery levels, remotely. As well as the vehicle batteries, solar panels can be used to provide power for charging up the various gadgets and appliances taken on trips, thereby keeping travellers connected in remote locations.

6.: The cost of having a solar panel (or panels) installed might not be within your budget and might be enough to put you off – but in actuality the long-term cost savings on fuel and the increased resale value it will provide for your vehicle mean that any ‘expense’ is justified.

Which solar panel is right for my motorhome?

Establishing which solar panel is right for your motorhome is a matter of research. If your vehicle does not already have a solar panel fitted as standard, there are three available types – and it is with determining which is right for you by discussing with your dealership or other motorhome expert.

1.: Fixed frame solar panels (sometimes also known as rigid frame) are resilient and sturdy, to be mounted onto the roof of the motorhome as a permanent fixture. These solar panels are suitable for flat surfaces but not suitable for curved or contoured roofs and cannot be adapted to fit. Due to their permanent nature, fixed frame panels require only minimal maintenance once installed.

2.: As the name suggests, flexible solar panels are versatile in the options for onboard mounting. They can be positioned on the roof of the motorhome using suitable adhesive, or they can be attached to a rear junction box panel. They offer a much lighter and more adaptable solution than rigid frame panels.

3.: Sometimes called briefcase panels, folding solar panels are the most flexible and cost-effective option for motorhome travellers. They are portable and easy to position or move to get the maximum sunlight. This means they’re ideal for temporary set-ups where permanent installation is not required. However, if this is the option you decide to go for, you should consider the amount of onboard storage space which will be required.

Investing in the installation of solar panels will create numerous advantages for you in your motorhome lifestyle – most notably including all of those we described above. Having panels fitted (or carrying a folding panel on your travels) will also bring you a sense of travelling ‘in good conscience’, as you are taking a step to introduce an element of sustainability into your journeys. If you’re looking for further motorhome accessories, from awnings to vehicle spares, visit our accessory store today. Happy travels!