The ideal solution for saving money
Have you ever found yourself stuck in the wilderness without power, with your fridge dead and your phone flat in your campervan ?
The campervan solar kit is THE solution to transform your vehicle into an electric autonomy power station , ideal for freedom lovers.
In this article, discover how to choose the right solar kit , optimize your battery and install a reliable system with practical advice and tested references like Victron or EcoFlow – because traveling without worrying about the power outlet is possible.
Comparison of different types of solar panels for rv
| Panel type | Yield | Value for money | Durability and conditions of use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polycrystalline | Average (about 16%) | The economical, best purchase price | Less efficient in variable weather conditions and low sunlight |
| Classic monocrystalline | Good (about 18%) | Balance between price and performance | Ideal for very sunny areas and summer use, optimal production at the zenith |
| Monocrystalline Back Contact (SUNPOWER) | Excellent (up to 24%) | High price, but higher performance | Optimize production at sunrise/sunset times, perfect for spring/fall |
| Monocrystalline Multi-Wire (PERC) | Very good (about 21%) | Good value for money, hybrid technology | Versatile, high-performance with low and zenith radii, suitable for regions with changeable weather |
| Flexible | Good (depending on underlying technology) | Higher price than rigid ones with equal power | Lightweight and thin, but can lose up to 10% in high heat. Preferred for small vans or removable installations. |
| Rigid | Good (depending on underlying technology) | More affordable than hoses of equal power | More robust, better durability thanks to their cooling system. Mounted on an aluminum frame, raised by 2 cm for better cooling. |
Understanding the solar kit for motorhomes
A motorhome solar kit converts the sun’s energy into electricity . It recharges the auxiliary battery and powers the onboard devices. The key components are the solar panel, MPPT regulator, lithium battery, and cables. For example, a 300W kit can power 400W of equipment.
Installing a solar panel provides total or partial energy autonomy. A plug-and-play solar kit helps reduce energy costs in the long term. The Stella Vita project, an autonomous solar campervan, travels 730 km thanks to 17.5 m² of solar panels, demonstrating the potential of this technology .
The main components of a solar kit
Solar panels come in monocrystalline and polycrystalline versions . The former, black, achieves 24% efficiency. The latter, blue-tinted, offers better value for money. For example, Back Contact monocrystalline (Sunpower) optimizes production even in low light.
The MPPT charge controller adjusts the panel voltage for the battery. It prevents overcharging and can generate 30-40% more efficiency compared to PWM . For example, a 120W panel charges at 120W with an MPPT versus 65W with a PWM.
The different compatible batteries
Lithium batteries (LiFePO4) are ideal for use with a solar kit . They offer 4000 charge-discharge cycles compared to 500-800 for AGM batteries. For example, a 100Ah lithium battery weighs 10-12 kg compared to 30 kg for an equivalent AGM battery.
To choose a battery suitable for your motorhome solar kit:
- Evaluate the capacity (in Ah) based on your consumption (e.g.: 80-90 Ah/day for standard use)
- Check compatibility with your storage space dimensions
- Compare the number of cycles (up to 3000 for lithium)
- Favor lithium (LiFePO4) for their autonomy and resistance to vibrations
- Prefer a management system (BMS) for lithium, guaranteeing safety and longevity
These criteria guarantee an efficient battery for your electric autonomy .
The Victron Energy and EcoFlow brands offer complete solutions. Victron is known for its SmartSolar MPPT regulators with remote monitoring. EcoFlow offers prefabricated kits such as the 5 kWh Power Kit. Financial assistance (€80/kWp bonus, reduced VAT) can reduce the purchase cost .
Sizing your solar kit for your camper van
Assess your energy needs
Calculate the power of your appliances in Watts and their usage time. Multiply Watts by daily hours to get Wh/day. A refrigerator consumes 150 kWh/year, or 0.41 kWh per day .
An LED light (10 spotlights) uses 10 Ah per day. A 100 Ah battery provides 1200 Wh. For 800 Wh/day in 12V, 67 Ah is required . Allow 20 to 30% margin.
Choosing the right solar panel power
The roof surface limits the power output. A 100Wp panel measures approximately 1m². A back-contact monocrystalline produces 157Wp/m² compared to 124Wp/m² for a polycrystalline. Leave 75mm around the panels.
Occasional use requires 100 to 200Wp. For total autonomy, calculate your Wh needs. A 215 to 425Wp kit is suitable for road trips. Large vehicles can go up to 1680Wp .
The important role of the charge regulator
The MPPT regulator extracts 5 to 30% more energy than PWM. It converts excess voltage into usable amperage. An 18V/5.5A panel gives 99W with MPPT (12V/8.25A) versus 66W with PWM .
Victron Energy’s SmartSolar controllers achieve 98% efficiency . They include Bluetooth and the VictronConnect app to monitor production. The VRM portal allows remote monitoring with a GX device.
Sizing of cables and accessories
Use 10 AWG wire for 10A. A 6 mm² wire is sufficient for 200W. The voltage drop must remain under 2% . A 10 AWG wire can support 60A.
MC4 connectors ensure secure connections. The waterproof roof pass-through protects against water. UNIFIX systems secure the panels without drilling into the roof . SikaFlex 522 adhesive is weather-resistant.
Installing a solar kit on a rv
Installation Preparation and Planning
Calculate your energy needs to choose the right power. Clean the roof before gluing. Check the compatibility of the components. A location without shade is ideal for optimizing energy production .
Prepare a flathead screwdriver, crimping pliers, and 6-8mm wrenches. Use a multimeter to check voltage and current. The CARBEST waterproof roof pass-through protects the cables. A polyurethane resin ensures waterproofing. Get a quote to avoid installation errors .
Fixing solar panels on the roof
Secure the panels with SikaFlex 522 adhesive or screws . Flexible panels can be glued without drilling. Rigid panels require mechanical supports. Aluminum profiles offer good wind resistance.
Clean the surface to be degreased before gluing. Apply the glue in a zigzag pattern. Position the panel. Use a UNIFIX system to prevent wind resistance. Leave to dry for 24/48 hours depending on the temperature between 5 and 25°C .
Prefabricated solar kits for rv
Advantages of complete kits
All-in-one kits include panels, regulators, and wiring. They avoid compatibility errors and offer a turnkey solution. Plug-and-play kits from 100 to 200Wp are sufficient for occasional use, with quick installation.
Prefabricated kits ensure synergy between components. Their accessories (MC4 connectors, roof passes) are easily adaptable. For example, the MyShop-Solaire 300W kit integrates a Uniteck panel and a Victron regulator. Installation takes 30 to 60 minutes without special tools .
Selection of the best solar kits on the market
To choose, compare power (100-1000Wc), panel type (monocrystalline preferred), product warranty (25 years minimum) and brand (Victron, EcoFlow). Financial aid (€80/kWc bonus) reduces the purchase cost .
The essential brands :
- Victron Energy: SmartSolar MPPT regulators (98% efficiency), lithium compatibility, control via mobile app
- EcoFlow : Power Kit 5 kWh (battery + Power Hub), ideal for long stays
- Uniteck: monocrystalline panels in kits like the MyShop-Solaire 300W
- Sunology : PLAY Max (700 Wh portable battery, 10-year warranty)
- Pylontech: lithium batteries with +6000 cycles and 90% discharge
- MyShop-Solaire: assembled kits with Victron/Uniteck components and detailed instructions
Victron kits are renowned for their reliability. Their SmartSolar MPPT regulator optimizes charging up to 98% . Models with Bluetooth allow you to monitor production via the VictronConnect app, which can be accessed even remotely via the VRM portal.
A good solar kit for a motorhome relies on monocrystalline panels, an MPPT regulator, and a suitable lithium battery. Calculate your energy needs to avoid unpleasant surprises. Prefabricated kits from brands like Victron or Antarion offer a turnkey solution. Electric autonomy means the freedom to drive without relying on power outlets.
Ready to turn your roof into an energy source?
FAQ – Solar Kit for RV
What is the impact of shade on solar panels?
Shade, even partial, greatly reduces energy production. If one cell is shaded, it can limit the performance of the entire panel because they are often connected in series.
It can also cause “hot spots”, overheated areas that damage the cells in the long run. Shade sources include trees, buildings, or dirt. Therefore, a location without shading is essential.
How does solar power work in winter?
In winter, production drops to about 25% of summer output, due to lower sunlight and a lower solar angle. At the same time, consumption increases (heating, TV, etc.).
To optimize: properly orient the panels, remove snow, and use an MPPT charge controller. Lithium batteries are recommended for their cold-weather performance.
Can a solar kit power an air conditioner?
Yes, provided you have a properly sized system. An air conditioner consumes between 1,000 and 2,000 W, requiring a powerful inverter capable of handling startup peaks.
You also need a lithium battery with sufficient capacity, a good charge controller, and a well-dimensioned system. The investment is high, but it provides real energy independence in the long term.
Why choose a 24V solar panel?
A 24V panel (actually generating between 36 and 40V) helps reduce power losses in cables, especially over long distances. The lower current avoids the need for large cables.
With a 12V system, an MPPT charge controller is enough to adapt the voltage. This type of controller is very efficient and can produce up to 30% more energy than a standard regulator.
What is the lifespan of a solar kit?
Solar panels generally last 20 to 30 years (sometimes up to 40 years), with a typical 25-year warranty. They lose very little power over time.
Central inverters last 8 to 12 years, while microinverters often last 20 to 25 years. Lithium batteries, if well maintained, can last up to 15 years.
