12V Solar Panels

Power your Aussie adventures with Outback Equipment's solar panels. Perfect for camping, caravans, and off-grid use, our solar panels offer durable and efficient energy solutions. Choose from fixed or portable options like a solar blanket. All designed to withstand tough conditions. Enjoy reliable, clean energy and stay connected wherever you go.

How Does a 12V Solar Panel Work?

A solar panel converts sunlight into electrical energy using photovoltaic cells. These cells capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. This power is then used to charge a battery or directly supply energy to your 12V appliances. The setup is ideal for your camping trips and 4WD adventures, providing a lightweight and compact power supply for your gear.

How to Calculate 12V Solar Panel Requirements

To determine the solar panel requirements, you need to know your total energy consumption. Calculate the wattage of all appliances you'll run. For example, if you have devices that need 300 watts per day, and your panel provides 100 watts per hour in peak sunlight, you’ll need about 3 hours of sunlight to meet your needs. Multiply the wattage of your panel by the average sunlight hours to estimate energy output and ensure efficiency in power supply. Here's an example of a calculation:

• LED Lights: 10W (running for 5 hours) = 50Wh
• Small Refrigerator: 60W (running for 10 hours) = 600Wh
• Fan: 20W (running for 5 hours) = 100Wh
• Phone Charging: 5W (charging for 2 hours) = 10Wh

Total daily usage = 50Wh + 600Wh + 100Wh + 10Wh = 760Wh

If your panel produces 100W per hour and you get 5 hours of sunlight: 100W x 5 hours = 500Wh per day.

You would need at least 2 panels to meet your daily requirements of 760Wh efficiently.

Can a 12V Solar Panel Charge a 24V Battery?

No, a 12V solar panel cannot directly charge a 24V battery. The voltage output needs to match the battery's requirements. You would need an MPPT Solar Regulator that can step up the voltage from 12V to 24V, ensuring efficient and safe charging or run two 12V solar panels in series. This setup is ideal for auxiliary power systems in larger vehicles or off-grid applications.

What Kind of Devices Can I Run with a 12V Solar Panel?

A 12V solar panel does not necessarily power devices directly; it provides charge to a battery that can run various devices, making it perfect for 4WD trips and camping. Common appliances include LED lights, small refrigerators, fans, and charging devices like phones and tablets. These panels are compact and provide a sustainable energy supply, ensuring your gear stays powered during your adventures.