Using domestic solar panels for our 12V needs

**Winnie** · 15th November 2019, 06:43 PM

Has anybody had any success with using a domestic solar panel with their camping setup? I work at an eleccy wholesaler so can get panels at a very good price. Assuming that the physical size is no issue, could I use a 315W panel through a basic 12V solar regulator?

**rusty_nail** · 15th November 2019, 07:14 PM

Originally Posted by Winnie

Has anybody had any success with using a domestic solar panel with their camping setup? I work at an eleccy wholesaler so can get panels at a very good price. Assuming that the physical size is no issue, could I use a 315W panel through a basic 12V solar regulator?

Yes mate, absolutely! Not for camping (yet) but I have a 12v setup in my shed which is powered by a commercial solar panel I inherited from an expo I worked at, it runs my smaller Waeco and a disused car radio sound system and some lights with a cheap eBay solar controller. Super easy to setup and have often thought it would be great on a roof.

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**the evil twin** · 15th November 2019, 08:33 PM

As above ^^^^

Almost any quality MPPT reg will take a domestic panel input and run 12 volt sytem.
The Victrons I use will handle 75 volts input

**Winnie** · 15th November 2019, 08:51 PM

Ripper rooter! You fellas have made my night, cheers gents.

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**Cuppa** · 15th November 2019, 09:43 PM

Make sure the reg is MPPT.

**jff45** · 15th November 2019, 10:27 PM

Also make sure the 12v regulator can handle the Voc (open circuit voltage) of the panel.

**Ben-e-boy** · 15th November 2019, 11:14 PM

Originally Posted by Winnie

Has anybody had any success with using a domestic solar panel with their camping setup? I work at an eleccy wholesaler so can get panels at a very good price. Assuming that the physical size is no issue, could I use a 315W panel through a basic 12V solar regulator?

Yep. I ran my 40L fridge, Mats big arse fridge and the campsite for 4 days in a shady campsite at Newby's Bucks party. Did it no worries

**Bidja** · 16th November 2019, 12:00 PM

All fine as quoted above:

Also make sure that MPPT can handle max power current output from panel. Getting up around 10amps and of course "as quoted" handle the panel open circuit voltage.

Also think about inline fuse before regulator and rated circuit breaker/switch.

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