Solar system for motorhomes – benefit from the sun and enjoy freedom

Photovoltaics refers to the direct conversion of sunlight into electrical energy using solar cells.

A solar power system converts sunlight into electrical energy using solar cells. The direct current generated can be stored directly in a battery.

Watt peak refers to the maximum power output of a solar module under standardised test conditions. However, the actual yield in everyday use depends on factors such as solar radiation, temperature and orientation.

A solar power system is particularly worthwhile where electricity is needed regularly and an independent energy supply is desired – for example, in a motorhome, garden shed or for off-grid applications.

Important influencing factors include solar radiation, geographical location, season, orientation and angle of inclination of the modules, as well as possible shading.

A typical solar power system consists of solar modules, a solar charge controller or inverter with integrated solar charge controller (depending on the system), cabling and, optionally, an electricity storage unit.

DC (direct current): Here, the current flows constantly in one direction. It is generated directly by the solar cells and stored in batteries (such as in a motorhome or home storage system). Small electronic devices (mobile phones, laptops) also operate internally with DC.

AC (Alternating Current): Here, the current changes direction regularly. This is the current that comes out of the socket in your home. Large household appliances such as coffee machines, refrigerators or hair dryers almost always require AC.

Since solar modules generate direct current (DC) due to their design, but most appliances in the home or camper rely on alternating current (AC), an inverter provides the necessary conversion of energy.

Grid-connected systems feed electricity into the public grid. Self-sufficient (off-grid) systems operate independently of the electricity grid and usually store energy in batteries.

Solar systems are considered to be very low maintenance. Occasional visual inspections and the removal of coarse dirt are usually sufficient.

Depending on the system, surplus electricity can be stored, consumed directly or fed into the grid.

To find the right power for your home, garden shed or motorhome, you first need to analyse your individual electricity consumption. For residential buildings, the annual bill serves as a basis, while for garden sheds and motorhomes, you should add up the wattage and daily running times of your appliances.

A decisive factor is the intended use: in the case of houses, the focus is often on reducing electricity costs, while in the case of motorhomes and garden sheds, it is usually about self-sufficiency. Since the sun does not shine constantly, the output should be dimensioned so that it provides enough energy to charge the batteries even when it is cloudy. Ultimately, the available roof space and the payload of the camper limit the maximum wattage. As a rule, 300 or 400Wp are possible for motorhomes.

In general, care must be taken to ensure that the battery is not overcharged. Please note the charging current of your battery.

The necessary information regarding the maximum possible charging current for your battery can be found in the corresponding data sheet.

We would be happy to advise you on the design of your solar power system.

A series connection usually requires 4 mm².
For a parallel connection, add the cross-sections toge

For example, 4x4mm² → then continue with 16mm² and connect to the solar charge controller.

Series connection is simpler and more efficient in terms of wiring. It is also better in partial shade or low light conditions.

Parallel connection is used when the solar charge controller cannot manage the voltage.

In a series-parallel connection, 3 modules are connected in series and then in parallel.

As a rule, series connection is preferable to parallel connection of solar modules. Today's MPPT solar charge controllers have a high input voltage range, which makes series connection possible without any problems.

Advantages:

• low cable cross-section required
• lower power loss on the cable route
• MPPT solar charge controllers start working early because the input voltage at the controller is already high even when light conditions are not yet optimal