When it comes to choosing solar panels for your campervan caravan or motorhome, there are two main types:
- Rigid
- Flexible.
The right choice depends on your setup and how you plan to use your system. Are you looking for something to cover a weekend away, or planning to stay off-grid for longer periods? Do you have plenty of roof space, or are you working with something more limited? These are the kinds of questions that will help determine which type of panel is best for you.
Flexible Solar Panels
Flexible solar panels are often chosen for their lightweight, low-profile design and clean finish. They bond directly to the roof without the need for mounting brackets, making installation simpler and reducing wind resistance. This makes them especially popular for pop-top roofs or smaller vehicles where weight and space matter.
Key Points
- Lightweight, ideal for smaller vans and pop-top roofs
- Low profile for a cleaner roofline and less wind resistance
- Can bend slightly to fit curved or uneven roofs
- Often easier to install using adhesive rather than brackets
- Run hotter and can be slightly less efficient when warm
- Typically more expensive per watt
- Usually not as long-lasting as rigid panels
Rigid Solar Panels
Rigid solar panels are typically chosen for their durability and performance. Built within a strong aluminium frame, they’re well suited to long-term use. Because they’re mounted above the roof, air can flow underneath to keep them cooler, and cooler panels work more efficiently, often producing more power than flexible panels of the same size. They’re a great option for motorhomes, caravans, or larger campervans where roof space and weight aren’t major concerns
Key Points
- Strong aluminium frame for durability
- Better airflow underneath helps cooling and efficiency
- Typically, longer lifespan
- Often slightly higher power output than flexible panels
- Heavier than flexible panels
- Require mounting brackets or roof rails
- Less suitable for curved or lightweight roofs
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