Marine Flexible Solar Panels

 
One of the easiest ways to incorporate a solar energy system on your boat is to use flexible solar panels which are very popular nowadays simply because they are incredibly versatile. They also save a bit of money during installation as they are easier to mount and provide economies of scale due to the fact they can be installed in any number of unlikely locations.
 

Basic Advantages

• The benefits of all solar panels apply to flexible one too as they provide free energy which can either backfeed your primary power source or become a singular source themselves. No cost is incurred after installation as no costly maintenance needs to be carried out. When boats are not anchored they are constantly using power in one way or another and an extra source can really amp up the enjoyment part of it.

• A common issue for boat owners is keeping their generators and subsequent batteries in good running conditions when the boat is in a mooring or is anchored and not in use. If the boat is powered by solar energy the owner need not worry as the charge regulator which comes with these systems keep the battery in an optimal state so that no damage incurs and it works automatically which is a double bonus.

• Lastly the great thing about flexible solar panels is that they can be tucked anywhere. They are very pliable and can be attached on any surface even if it is curved or convex. This means that power output is increased since it is not just the roof which is harnessing the power of the sun.
 

Components Of Basic Kits

Unless you are investing in a very expensive or custom design this is what you will get in most kits although the exact specifics also depend on the manufacturer.

• The chosen number of solar panels

• A junction box which includes the battery and the controller

• Mounting and attachment cables

If you decide to spend a bit more you can opt for monocrystalline cells with a high level of expected voltage. You may also get a ten year warranty as these panels are meant to last for about twice that length of time if you choose a reputed manufacturer.

Flexible marine panels do make good do-it-yourself projects as any underlying sheet will do and the cells can be glued on the top of it with a basic adhesive gun. They may not have the power generating capacity of pricey kits but they do power small things like a couple of lights or a phone charger. For people beginning to have interest in solar panels, this can be a good thing to start with.

Now there are semi flexible solar panels available as well which are not as easily pliable as the other models although they do last longer and sustain bad weather and damage a lot better. The most common complaint regarding flexible marine solar panels is that they get dips in them due to extreme wind or hail but the semi flexible ones might be the way to remedy that.