What a fun project! You can find the Renogy 200 Watt Flexible Solar Panels HERE: renogy.sjv.io/200wflex *SAVE 6% OFF using DISCOUNT CODE: JASONOID (valid on their website until Dec 31st 2023)* You can also purchase them on Amazon HERE: amzn.to/45spg7C
@@antoninoromeo4015 yep, that's how all 12v solar panels are. In order to charge a battery you need a higher voltage than your 12v battery. 12v panels put out around 20v at peak power. 24v put out 32v at peak power. The naming of a 12v panel is based on the batteries type they are meant to charge, not the output voltage.
@@WillProwseVery well! I have this exact set up plus 5x Renogy’s 175W panels for my EF Delta Pro’s (thanks for all the work you did on those, you’re reviews are why I pulled the trigger). I live in England so we don’t get the hurricanes you guys get but I‘ve had some serious wind (they’re effectively in a wind tunnel) and without them even being fixed to anything they do not move a mm. They’re just not thick enough for wind to get underneath to lift them, I do plan on fixing them before this winter but I’ve had the 175’s up there for a couple of years with no issues. I also have a 400W EF folding panel out there with them and a decent gust flipped that once despite the weight.
You know, if you went with 4, put a hinge in the middle, you could fold it and take it camping. 800w is a decent amount. It's light enough for camping. You, sir, just gave me an idea. Thanks 👍
@@Johnny_Kanuk- But AllPowers folding panels are not meant to be outdoors in all weather, as I understand the info on them (and other folding portable panels).
Lightweight is exactly what I need! And you even demonstrated, and then added in the information about the framing. I definitely appreciate this video. Thank you, Jason!
That is cool idea! Lightweight to move around and store against a wall. Nice truck metal carport idea for this heat. And you have probably figured out there is now more roof area to put solar panels on it. HaHa. Or secure the lightweight panel array to the side of the metal carport so it acts like a wall but still gets sun. Great project!
What a cool project. I can see this being a perfect solution for renters who aren't allowed to drill into the structure. This channel has been the most helpful resource for my DIY solar projects at our home. We are big campers too, and being able to have solar and other power solutions on the road has upgraded our outdoor experiences as well.
Great Job!!, I have been getting great power so far out of these panels for my RV setup. So far about 6 months in holding up great in multiple 110 degree days. 66lbs..!!!!! 😀👍🏼
Very cool, clean, neat, and versatile build. Great for home owners who live in HOA areas or communities where yard space is at a premium, and for those who do not want to put solar on their roof. At $329 a pop though, expensive. Great idea and video. Thanks much.
This is a great setup for anyone living in an appartment on the 9th floor. The Balcony becomes a solar power-station that can charge a Solar Generator or with an special inverter fed back into the grid. In Germany the maximum size (Capacity) of a balcony KRAFTWERK is 600 Watt but has recently being upgraded to 800 Watt. The main problem are the fuses and the maximum power-draw (current) with inadequate gage wiring. Wires can get hot and might trigger a meltdown.
I'm going to do this for a 12v setup.. put 4x 220w 48v shingle flex panels with same extrusions but I plan to add hinges to each of the middle parts so that the whole thing can be folded making them portable so around 800-880w, 190v in series and will have kickstands on it.. so it should produce min 66a to battery max 80a.. which is great.. On my rooftop tent I got 3x 200w 30v custom made shingle glass panels and they will max produce 75a but would mean I would need to park my camper trailer always in the sun.. but with this solar setup I could have a 20m solar cable from trailer to panels and place it anywhere within 20m
Excellent video as usual Jason. I've used lots of the extruded T slot aluminium for projects and it's perfect for this sort of thing. While you could pop some hinges on the back, with T slot extrusions connected to them as legs, you can just use strong bolts and nuts to create a pivot joint. Think of how a folding deckchair works, super simple, and you get the idea. It shouldn't make the frame too much heavier. If you add 2 legs on the top and 2 on the bottom of the panel, you'll be add multiple slots in the bottom legs so that the top legs can lock into them - again, just like a deckchair. You could put the slots at the right distance apart to allow you to easily adjust the angle of the panels depending on the time of year / height of the sun. T slots are so versatile and excellent to work with. I even built a full size Delorean time machine using 30x30 T slot extrusions! (If you're really, and I mean REALLY bored, you can watch that build on my channel :)
Pretty sure a lot of us would like a video showing what you are describing. Could put it on your channel (I just went to see your DeLorean pedal boat, amazing!) and Jason could maybe do a video on it and link to it. His video could also have clips of the PedaLorean, could be a fun collaboration, more views for all.
Are you looking for a portable setup or something more stationary? Glass rigid panels are more affordable and durable but hard to move around. This would work well if you wanted to stow it away when not in use.
@@Jasonoid Your question makes me think something more permanent with glass panels might be better. I already have 400W of glass panels, but the cabin is tucked in a nice shady spot. I could build something like your wooden unit and set it up about 250 yards from the cabin where the best sun is. Another 400W and I'd be good to go!
I compliment you for knowing and then providing the part list. Part gathering is time consuming and a lot of guess work. Those parts would work for a small greenhouse. thanks
I watch car repair videos when I have a specific fix to perform. And there is always someone who, for the sake of saving me time, will not tell what size wenches, etc. he used to change out a part. And I have to keep searching on RUclips.It can be a big timesaver.@@Jasonoid
Loved this experiment with the flexible panels. I have no yard but future plans for full time van life, so I will be watching for your updates on performance, durability etc. Thanks for sharing all the parts list too.
Great video. I did a similar frame like yours and than redesigned it to where I used a 3/4" pvc pipe on the top with one inch T's attached so that they can swivel and use as kick stands. The pipes for the kick stand can be 3 or 4 foot pieces with end caps that I drilled a hole with screws that dig into the grass at what ever angle you need. For yours you could screw in some T hinges and attack the legs for a kick stand.
Still getting excellent power from these panels. An easy way to see an update every now and then would be to check my power station review videos. I use these panels to test the charging input in my reviews.
Man now that is a cool project! Love the light weight portability i just need to make more money now since they are considerably more than my glass panels lol
Impressive build sir! I guess I would say that I would break this down in 2 parts so I could take part of it with me in a cargo camper and add structural integrity for wind (that worries me a lot). Such a neat idea, thank you. Doesn't look like it'll cost a fortune either!
These panels have held up really well so far, I still get the same wattage 6 months down the road after being outside in the elements all day everyday 👍
just gave me the idea to use them as "solar shade" and "solar power" on the side of a tiny caravan/tiny house... think I could fit 4 of those in 2 sets of 2 for a total of 800W and super light weight + shade = win win... and time to move just fold them down easy peasy :D not that it needs much or high speed moving, just between pastures etc. and the weight is ridiculously low compared to normal solar panels... and renogy is usually known for great quality so I hope they will last MANY years :D
That's awesome! Glad it's working well for you. Mine are still putting out around 1000 watts even after 6 months of everyday use. I really like these panels!
Update 3/3/24 i have 4 200 w renogy flex panels i got today 859 watts plus great panels I did not know how to send you pic on my ecoflow delta pro screen shot, Thanks again for showing these panels.
I like that you build a frame for it. I’d like to see one improvement: make it individual frames and foldable for easier storage. I had a similar design in mind for my little sailboat. But instead of 80/20 I’m leaning towards 1” pvc pipe to avoid electrolysis in the saltwater environment. My ultimate goal would be 1-3 1000watt floating arrays to deploy at anchor. Now that would power a AC in paradise… But your version, if foldable, would be great for campers and RV (vans). Mount two sets to the roof, in folded position you get power from one panel from each. At campsite, you deploy them and get a whopping 2000 watts.
those new panels can get more power because you can angle them better. i look forward to you keeping us up to date on how well those flexible panels hold up, 5 years seems to be 1/4 if the time residential panels are rated for. as a side note, nice new car port you have there, surprised that you used a metal roof instead of a solar panel roof, maybe that is another project for another day.
I like the idea that I could store it in my garage and then bring it out in summer to bolster my ground-mount solar for when my A/C is on. My ground mount handles all my loads except my 30 year old FAU A/C. So to offset that with an additional 1000Watts would be fantastic!
Great video. As usual, crazy how many people choose not to understand your clearly stated purpose. Have you seen any "better" quality flexible panels that will better handle higher desert temps? Above 100°.
Hi great video. I do not think I would go with kick-legs as there maybe a problem with the wind, but clips or hooks along the frame so you can fix to another structure could be good. 👍🐝🌞
@@Jasonoid as with the wind strap a few videos ago, as this is larger than a folding panel and so could go like a hang glider, and so would need something.👍🐝🌞
@@jimdaly5077 I was moving it around with a small breeze and yes.... It is very much a sail LOL... once it's leaning against something and strapped down it's solid.
These take up more area than their glass counter parts for the same wattage. It's still impressive and has useful applications, but if space limited, these might not be the best option.
If I were going to build this again, I'd probably go with the 30x30 extrusion so it would be a little more sturdy. With the smaller material it probably wouldn't work well with kickstands. Everything else about the project is excellent, including the solar panels and their performance!
I was with you all the way on this one. Then I priced the panels😲 almost $2,500. So unless Renogy wants to partner up I’ll have to stick with the ridged ones. Just have to give my wife some bar bells and tell her to start pumping iron.
The prices doubled recently in a move of shere stupidity on Renogys part.... They won't be selling these panels anytime soon. Why raise the prices so high?!
The panels im interested in purchasing are the panels in your review . The back of the panel reads voc 23.9 , im not young anymore, so having a panel that's lightweight and produces 200watts will definitely be useful. Thanks !
@@MadLadsAnonymous power at a single point of time is watts. Power over time is 'watt hours'. 1000 watts for 1 hour is 1000 watt hours. 1000 watts for 5 hours is 5000 watt hours. Hope that helps.
Going to make a suitcase with these I'm going to wait until the price comes down cuz they're kind of expensive but 400 Watts of folding lightweight solar suitcase would be nice
I wish someone would invent a lightweight or flexible panel that would actually survive the sun for more than one summer. Great when they are new and for intermittant temporary use. Five year warranty. Wow, maybe Renology kinda did it. Glass warranties 20 years easy, though One thing about pouring tap water on hot panels: especially if you have hard tap water, as it dries it will leave mineral deposits on the panel surface which will cut down electricity production. It's why I recommend washing your panels in the rain, so the mineral free rain water will create a finishing rinse to remove minerals. Some people are using that auto windshield treatment on thier glass solar panels. It helps water and bead off and creates a kind of teflon coating so minerals can be scrubbed off easily, so that might be an option if you want to wet your panels.
That's why I sprayed the back of the panels with water at least, but good points on the mineral deposits. I'll be providing an update on these panels down the road to see if they survive, I'm very curious about that.
When they come with at least 8 years warranty. I would think about them. Have lost too many dollars on flexible panels with all the problems with removing them
Cool project, but very expensive if you are not getting sponsored by Renogy 😂. I think it would be cheaper, easier, and lighter to get a couple 400-600 watt portable folding panels.
These used to be affordable, near $219. The price of these jumped significantly last year about a month after the video was published. I actually bought 2 of them for a different project and then came up with this concept. Bummer the price of these is sky high now.
This guy on RUclips "Humble Roads" builds all of his van interiors with 80/20 extruded aluminum. He has a more recent video on all the connecting fasteners for this and is quite informative,
@@Jasonoid plus I'm in California so we get lots of sun all year .. so maybe 2 or 4 100ah 12v on 2 pannles or 3 or 4 max will be enough for my trailer . If I'm getting 17amps + max charging for 3 to 4 hours a day that's more than enough to run lights solder iron my router and charge up phones and laptops ect..
Nice to the point. Any bad wind is going to kill this. What is your use case? If you leave it out 24/7 then a more permanent structure is called for? I would consider hinging each panel into a fold up structure if the use case is lightweight portable… of course that adds to weight by adding 5 more struts.
I added ratchet straps to hold it down. I've always wanted to see how durable these flex panels are so its mostly a long term experiment. The extra 1000 watts of solar is great to charge the power stations I test for the channel.
you didnt get an extra 50 watts from spraying the flexible panels and cooling them, your home panel array also went up by 50 watts. that means that the solar conditions made the difference, not your garden hose.
Hi I’m in the uk. Stumbled across your channel very interesting.Quick question I’ve got a touring caravan weight not a problem but would you say fit rigid panel or flexible 200w with just the one panel I want to get the most out of it it’s also the renogy ones I was looking at. Thanks mike
I've had really good luck with these 200w flex panels. If you want something thin and lightweight go with the flex panel. If you want something more durable and longer lasting, i'd recommend a glass rigid panel.
I only just started the video, but how is taking a flexible panel, then making your own frame from aluminum, superior to just buying a panels framed in aluminum?
The weight savings is the biggest factor (removing the heavy glass). This video is about building a lightweight and portable option. Put together glass panels like this and you won't be moving it around.
Jasonoid, good morning and happy holidays. I'm definitely considering this solar panel from watching your review, and as always, I have a question . How many of panels would I need to get 120volts, thank you !!
Here are two videos that go over the basics of solar panel wiring and voltage: Parallel vs Series connections: ruclips.net/video/OZvrTuhJhXs/видео.html Connecting Solar Panels to Your Power Station: ruclips.net/video/4JG8LvJznLY/видео.html
is there a reason you didn't just build on top of your carport? If you're going that light, it seems that's the best place for them instead of hauling in and out of the garage. 🤔
You are right about the weight. Just keep in mind these panels are upgraded over the previous version since they use better cells. They will put out more power and last longer.
if you were looking for a smaller footprint and dont care much about the money the CIGS might have been a better way to go and you prob get a few more watts.
@@Jasonoid yeah saw that one not all that much difference. I thought it would be a bigger wattage difference with the CIGS. Renogy is making some pretty good Solar products these days.
Yes, the batteries will be a separate cost. If your power is consistent, it's probably not worth investing in something like this. However, if you live in an area where you constantly lose power it's a great setup.
What a fun project! You can find the Renogy 200 Watt Flexible Solar Panels HERE: renogy.sjv.io/200wflex
*SAVE 6% OFF using DISCOUNT CODE: JASONOID (valid on their website until Dec 31st 2023)*
You can also purchase them on Amazon HERE: amzn.to/45spg7C
Hi very nice great! why in the renology site is reported 12v while in the video i see 20 volt operating voltage?
@@antoninoromeo4015 yep, that's how all 12v solar panels are. In order to charge a battery you need a higher voltage than your 12v battery. 12v panels put out around 20v at peak power. 24v put out 32v at peak power. The naming of a 12v panel is based on the batteries type they are meant to charge, not the output voltage.
Wow that is lightweight! Holy cow
That weighs as much as one of my 400W bifacials. Insane!
I wonder how well it would fair in a windy environment
I've tied it down to my carport using rachet straps, survived 40mph so far! 👍😁 Super impressed with the power too!
@@WillProwseVery well! I have this exact set up plus 5x Renogy’s 175W panels for my EF Delta Pro’s (thanks for all the work you did on those, you’re reviews are why I pulled the trigger).
I live in England so we don’t get the hurricanes you guys get but I‘ve had some serious wind (they’re effectively in a wind tunnel) and without them even being fixed to anything they do not move a mm. They’re just not thick enough for wind to get underneath to lift them, I do plan on fixing them before this winter but I’ve had the 175’s up there for a couple of years with no issues. I also have a 400W EF folding panel out there with them and a decent gust flipped that once despite the weight.
@@InimitaPaul The wind doesn't get under to lift them, rather it creates low pressure above them, the way a planes wings work. Up and away!
You know, if you went with 4, put a hinge in the middle, you could fold it and take it camping. 800w is a decent amount. It's light enough for camping. You, sir, just gave me an idea. Thanks 👍
Let me know how that goes! Extruded aluminum has so many options!
@@Jasonoid I have these 200W AllPowers foldable panels. I have 3 will get one more and use them. I'll let you know how it works out.
You can make a four panel double folding suitcase array
@@Johnny_Kanuk- But AllPowers folding panels are not meant to be outdoors in all weather, as I understand the info on them (and other folding portable panels).
@debbiedogs1 yeah, hence why I would make it folding. Only pull them out for sunny times when I'm out camping or just need the power somewhere.
Lightweight is exactly what I need! And you even demonstrated, and then added in the information about the framing. I definitely appreciate this video. Thank you, Jason!
You are so welcome!
Super cool idea. Pretty amazing you can pick up a 1000w array and move it around easily. Really smart!
Put piano hinges on them so you can Z fold them then they would make a smaller package.
This is a great project. A couple of these could power my entire house! Thank you.
That is cool idea! Lightweight to move around and store against a wall. Nice truck metal carport idea for this heat. And you have probably figured out there is now more roof area to put solar panels on it. HaHa. Or secure the lightweight panel array to the side of the metal carport so it acts like a wall but still gets sun. Great project!
What a cool project. I can see this being a perfect solution for renters who aren't allowed to drill into the structure.
This channel has been the most helpful resource for my DIY solar projects at our home. We are big campers too, and being able to have solar and other power solutions on the road has upgraded our outdoor experiences as well.
Great Job!!, I have been getting great power so far out of these panels for my RV setup. So far about 6 months in holding up great in multiple 110 degree days. 66lbs..!!!!! 😀👍🏼
Your panels are being tortured in that heat, Johnny! Let's see whose last longer! HAHA
Your videos are the best (most descriptive) I have come across on RUclips. Thanks!
You are very welcome! My goal is to show people this stuff is fun and isn't too difficult!
Very cool, clean, neat, and versatile build. Great for home owners who live in HOA areas or communities where yard space is at a premium, and for those who do not want to put solar on their roof. At $329 a pop though, expensive. Great idea and video. Thanks much.
Well said!
Awesome idea! Thanks for sharing this project. Now I WON'T ruin my 6 year old shingle roof with unnecessary racking & heavy panels!!!
Ground mounting is the way to go. Easy to clean and no damage to the house. Even ground mount glass panels are great too!
This is a great setup for anyone living in an appartment on the 9th floor. The Balcony becomes a solar power-station that can charge a Solar Generator or with an special inverter fed back into the grid. In Germany the maximum size (Capacity) of a balcony KRAFTWERK is 600 Watt but has recently being upgraded to 800 Watt. The main problem are the fuses and the maximum power-draw (current) with inadequate gage wiring. Wires can get hot and might trigger a meltdown.
I'm going to do this for a 12v setup.. put 4x 220w 48v shingle flex panels with same extrusions but I plan to add hinges to each of the middle parts so that the whole thing can be folded making them portable so around 800-880w, 190v in series and will have kickstands on it.. so it should produce min 66a to battery max 80a.. which is great.. On my rooftop tent I got 3x 200w 30v custom made shingle glass panels and they will max produce 75a but would mean I would need to park my camper trailer always in the sun.. but with this solar setup I could have a 20m solar cable from trailer to panels and place it anywhere within 20m
Really interested to see how the power output & condtion of the panel's look after sitting outside for an entire year.
Me too! I'm hoping the results are decent!
I would store them vertically him in the garage, when not in use along one wall
Thanks for all the info, including how to build a frame 😊
Really cool! I've been using 4 100W flex panels (160$ a pair) to feed an AC-180.
Thank You for All that you are doing for our Planet Earth.... Peace.. Shalom.. Salam.. Namaste 🙏🏻 😊 🌈 ✌ ☮ ❤
Remember you saw it here first folks! Awesome work Jason
Excellent video as usual Jason. I've used lots of the extruded T slot aluminium for projects and it's perfect for this sort of thing. While you could pop some hinges on the back, with T slot extrusions connected to them as legs, you can just use strong bolts and nuts to create a pivot joint.
Think of how a folding deckchair works, super simple, and you get the idea. It shouldn't make the frame too much heavier.
If you add 2 legs on the top and 2 on the bottom of the panel, you'll be add multiple slots in the bottom legs so that the top legs can lock into them - again, just like a deckchair. You could put the slots at the right distance apart to allow you to easily adjust the angle of the panels depending on the time of year / height of the sun.
T slots are so versatile and excellent to work with. I even built a full size Delorean time machine using 30x30 T slot extrusions! (If you're really, and I mean REALLY bored, you can watch that build on my channel :)
Pretty sure a lot of us would like a video showing what you are describing. Could put it on your channel (I just went to see your DeLorean pedal boat, amazing!) and Jason could maybe do a video on it and link to it. His video could also have clips of the PedaLorean, could be a fun collaboration, more views for all.
Love it! This setup would easily provide all the power I need for my 3-season offgrid cabin. Nice work!
Are you looking for a portable setup or something more stationary? Glass rigid panels are more affordable and durable but hard to move around. This would work well if you wanted to stow it away when not in use.
@@Jasonoid Your question makes me think something more permanent with glass panels might be better. I already have 400W of glass panels, but the cabin is tucked in a nice shady spot. I could build something like your wooden unit and set it up about 250 yards from the cabin where the best sun is. Another 400W and I'd be good to go!
I compliment you for knowing and then providing the part list. Part gathering is time consuming and a lot of guess work. Those parts would work for a small greenhouse. thanks
When I watch a build video online, I think it's criminal to not have a parts list HAHA Thanks for caring about that :)
I watch car repair videos when I have a specific fix to perform. And there is always someone who, for the sake of saving me time, will not tell what size wenches, etc. he used to change out a part. And I have to keep searching on RUclips.It can be a big timesaver.@@Jasonoid
Nice work there, Jason. Thanks.
I started with a concept in my head and it actually worked like I wanted it too! HAHA
Loved this experiment with the flexible panels. I have no yard but future plans for full time van life, so I will be watching for your updates on performance, durability etc. Thanks for sharing all the parts list too.
Thanks Michelle for checking out the video, time will tell!
Really hope you do the same project again, but with CIGS panels to make it even lighter and durable 🤞🤞🤞🤞
Your the real deal 🤝
Great video. I did a similar frame like yours and than redesigned it to where I used a 3/4" pvc pipe on the top with one inch T's attached so that they can swivel and use as kick stands. The pipes for the kick stand can be 3 or 4 foot pieces with end caps that I drilled a hole with screws that dig into the grass at what ever angle you need. For yours you could screw in some T hinges and attack the legs for a kick stand.
Thanks for the suggestions! What solar panels did you use for your build?
Pretty cool 😎👍
Awesome video. Would love a quick follow-up to see how it's still performing.
Still getting excellent power from these panels. An easy way to see an update every now and then would be to check my power station review videos. I use these panels to test the charging input in my reviews.
That's an outstanding idea. Great design Jason, you gave me some good ideas to play with.
Man now that is a cool project! Love the light weight portability i just need to make more money now since they are considerably more than my glass panels lol
Glass panels are still better in most situations EXCEPT portability.
You are THE MAN! Wonder if it would be as ADEQUATELY strong with tent poles … PVC
I dont think so, it's pretty wobbly with these larger bars so by going to something smaller it would probably collapse.
Solar sailboats here they come !
Wow nice! And portable-ish.
Certainly 'movable', not meant to be moved all the time though! haha
Really cool project Jason! These looks really stowable which is a plus for those of us with small yards!
Good build, I like the lightweight portability of this setup.
Thanks mate. I appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge and advice through your channel.
Impressive build sir! I guess I would say that I would break this down in 2 parts so I could take part of it with me in a cargo camper and add structural integrity for wind (that worries me a lot). Such a neat idea, thank you. Doesn't look like it'll cost a fortune either!
To protect against the wind blowing this away I used a ratchet strap to tie it down to my carport vertical bars, it's been working well so far!
Really cool array. Thanks for the video as I'm trying to learn about pitting together a system.
You can do it!
Fantastic content! You are on your way to 100k subs and beyond. Cheers
I sure hope, the growth seems slow sometimes haha
I have a completely different application but your video was very valuable for insight into applying the materials to my needs. Thanks!
These panels have held up really well so far, I still get the same wattage 6 months down the road after being outside in the elements all day everyday 👍
Very interesting. Love how lightweight it is. Will be interested to see how it holds up over time. Thanks.
You and me both!
just gave me the idea to use them as "solar shade" and "solar power" on the side of a tiny caravan/tiny house... think I could fit 4 of those in 2 sets of 2 for a total of 800W and super light weight + shade = win win... and time to move just fold them down easy peasy :D not that it needs much or high speed moving, just between pastures etc. and the weight is ridiculously low compared to normal solar panels... and renogy is usually known for great quality so I hope they will last MANY years :D
Thanks! I used your measurements with the same 5 panels and I pulled 960 watts today
That's awesome! Glad it's working well for you. Mine are still putting out around 1000 watts even after 6 months of everyday use. I really like these panels!
That's a really great price for a flexible panel, I just always worry about their durability. Fingers crossed for your investment!
Fingers crossed!
Another excellent project and video - thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it
Update 3/3/24 i have 4 200 w renogy flex panels i got today 859 watts plus great panels I did not know how to send you pic on my ecoflow delta pro screen shot, Thanks again for showing these panels.
Mine are still rocking full power as well! Love these panels! (I'll do an update video later this summer).
Thank you. Very helpful.
You're welcome!
I like that you build a frame for it. I’d like to see one improvement: make it individual frames and foldable for easier storage.
I had a similar design in mind for my little sailboat. But instead of 80/20 I’m leaning towards 1” pvc pipe to avoid electrolysis in the saltwater environment. My ultimate goal would be 1-3 1000watt floating arrays to deploy at anchor. Now that would power a AC in paradise…
But your version, if foldable, would be great for campers and RV (vans). Mount two sets to the roof, in folded position you get power from one panel from each. At campsite, you deploy them and get a whopping 2000 watts.
That would be sweet! Folding it up with hinges shouldn't be too bad.
@@JasonoidI copied your cut list. Don’t have a miter saw so would need to buy precut pieces.
What 80/20 hinge would you choose?
@@TheCornucopiaProject-bd5jk I'm not sure, I haven't researched a bunch of hinges for 80/20.
@@Jasonoidhow do these perform compared to the cigs panels from BougeRV ?
@@TheCornucopiaProject-bd5jk CIGS are the ultimate shading panel. If you plan to be in shade, use the CIGS. If you don't have shade stick with these.
those new panels can get more power because you can angle them better.
i look forward to you keeping us up to date on how well those flexible panels hold up, 5 years seems to be 1/4 if the time residential panels are rated for.
as a side note, nice new car port you have there, surprised that you used a metal roof instead of a solar panel roof, maybe that is another project for another day.
Yes, another project in the works :) hehe
Brilliant, just f@#$ing brilliant!
Thank you! 😎
I like the idea that I could store it in my garage and then bring it out in summer to bolster my ground-mount solar for when my A/C is on. My ground mount handles all my loads except my 30 year old FAU A/C. So to offset that with an additional 1000Watts would be fantastic!
I move this around a couple times a week as needed. It's not the easiest thing to wield around but the power output is AWESOME!
Genius!
Great video. As usual, crazy how many people choose not to understand your clearly stated purpose. Have you seen any "better" quality flexible panels that will better handle higher desert temps? Above 100°.
Still putting out excellent power to this day. The panels have held up to daily use and still look nearly new. I need to clean them! Haha
Hi great video. I do not think I would go with kick-legs as there maybe a problem with the wind, but clips or hooks along the frame so you can fix to another structure could be good. 👍🐝🌞
I've been using a racket strap during this week and it's worked great strapped to my car port!
@@Jasonoid as with the wind strap a few videos ago, as this is larger than a folding panel and so could go like a hang glider, and so would need something.👍🐝🌞
@@jimdaly5077 I was moving it around with a small breeze and yes.... It is very much a sail LOL... once it's leaning against something and strapped down it's solid.
Amazing dude!!
Thanks!
Thanks Jason 😎
Thanks for checking it out!
I would probably break it in half and have two, 400 watt sections for more portability. Nice set up though.
That would work really well!
Great idea! Going to build (a slightly smaller) one!
These take up more area than their glass counter parts for the same wattage. It's still impressive and has useful applications, but if space limited, these might not be the best option.
I would mount that right on that carport as a wall and add another panel or two to fill it in, lol.
Great idea!
You add a few legs in the back....and you got a toss up anywhere setup....I so appreciate this concept....way to think out of the box
I want to build 3 of these and add them to my off grid backup power supply when I want to switch from the grid with a transfer switch.
At least I will call it my backup generator, but in reality the grid will be my backup.
If I were going to build this again, I'd probably go with the 30x30 extrusion so it would be a little more sturdy. With the smaller material it probably wouldn't work well with kickstands. Everything else about the project is excellent, including the solar panels and their performance!
@@Jasonoid Thanks, really appreciate the input, looking to semi kinda expand an existing doing something like this when I need excess power.
@@Jasonoid August and Jan/Feb having an extra 1kw tossed on would solve a bunch of issues.
I was with you all the way on this one. Then I priced the panels😲 almost $2,500. So unless Renogy wants to partner up I’ll have to stick with the ridged ones. Just have to give my wife some bar bells and tell her to start pumping iron.
The prices doubled recently in a move of shere stupidity on Renogys part.... They won't be selling these panels anytime soon. Why raise the prices so high?!
For stowing, try All Powers 600 watt folding panel. 27 pounds IIRC.
I'll be testing that panel later this year, it's more of a 'solar blanket' vs an actual portable panel.
The panels im interested in purchasing are the panels in your review . The back of the panel reads voc 23.9 , im not young anymore, so having a panel that's lightweight and produces 200watts will definitely be useful. Thanks !
These have been putting out excellent power. I have been a big fan. They are also on sale right now for the holiday. amzn.to/3MXSpAo
interesting prospect to consider the LIGHTEST array. thanks
Wells I guess that only matters if you want to be able to move it around haha
that was an excellent build.
I might try that on a smaller cost of doing 2 panels at a time and add on additional groups of 2 later on.
That would allow you to use them together or place them in different areas in your yard!
Breaking the array up would make this much easier to handle and even allow you to put them in multiple areas around your home.
@@Jasonoid yep, easier to handle and easier on the pocketbook. just add on in increments.
Idea for kickstand:
Add kickstand
Great video as always!
I appreciate that
Great job.
Thanks!
Nice Renogy specs are so on point.
860 to 900 watts of power at peak daylight for a week so far! Those numbers are very impressive :)
@@JasonoidThat's 900W for the entire day, correct?
@@MadLadsAnonymous power at a single point of time is watts.
Power over time is 'watt hours'. 1000 watts for 1 hour is 1000 watt hours. 1000 watts for 5 hours is 5000 watt hours. Hope that helps.
Great job. Love your ideas! 👍
O.k. great, so 5 panels will give me 120volts . Thanks again !
Correct, if the five panels have around 24VOC, when putting them together in series it will give you 120v total.
Nice I like it!!
Thanks! 😁
nice frame
Going to make a suitcase with these I'm going to wait until the price comes down cuz they're kind of expensive but 400 Watts of folding lightweight solar suitcase would be nice
I wish someone would invent a lightweight or flexible panel that would actually survive the sun for more than one summer. Great when they are new and for intermittant temporary use. Five year warranty. Wow, maybe Renology kinda did it. Glass warranties 20 years easy, though
One thing about pouring tap water on hot panels: especially if you have hard tap water, as it dries it will leave mineral deposits on the panel surface which will cut down electricity production. It's why I recommend washing your panels in the rain, so the mineral free rain water will create a finishing rinse to remove minerals. Some people are using that auto windshield treatment on thier glass solar panels. It helps water and bead off and creates a kind of teflon coating so minerals can be scrubbed off easily, so that might be an option if you want to wet your panels.
That's why I sprayed the back of the panels with water at least, but good points on the mineral deposits. I'll be providing an update on these panels down the road to see if they survive, I'm very curious about that.
When they come with at least 8 years warranty. I would think about them. Have lost too many dollars on flexible panels with all the problems with removing them
I'm impressed how these are holding up so far. I am using them everyday and I'll provide an update later this year.
A little out of my price range, but looks very nice. I hope they hold up, as I might manage a couple of these.
We'll see how they hold up overtime!
What is the total ballpark price on this project??
Cool project, but very expensive if you are not getting sponsored by Renogy 😂. I think it would be cheaper, easier, and lighter to get a couple 400-600 watt portable folding panels.
These used to be affordable, near $219. The price of these jumped significantly last year about a month after the video was published. I actually bought 2 of them for a different project and then came up with this concept. Bummer the price of these is sky high now.
@@Jasonoid cool, thanks for the reply.
This guy on RUclips "Humble Roads" builds all of his van interiors with 80/20 extruded aluminum. He has a more recent video on all the connecting fasteners for this and is quite informative,
I'm pretty sure I watched that video to learn more about 80/20! haha
nice ill need 2 panels for my needs and im good
That would be a sweet lightweight setup!
@@Jasonoid plus I'm in California so we get lots of sun all year .. so maybe 2 or 4 100ah 12v on 2 pannles or 3 or 4 max will be enough for my trailer . If I'm getting 17amps + max charging for 3 to 4 hours a day that's more than enough to run lights solder iron my router and charge up phones and laptops ect..
Nice to the point. Any bad wind is going to kill this. What is your use case? If you leave it out 24/7 then a more permanent structure is called for? I would consider hinging each panel into a fold up structure if the use case is lightweight portable… of course that adds to weight by adding 5 more struts.
I added ratchet straps to hold it down. I've always wanted to see how durable these flex panels are so its mostly a long term experiment. The extra 1000 watts of solar is great to charge the power stations I test for the channel.
Wow these panels would charge my oukitel p5000 in just 5 hours in ideal situation. Its max solar input is 1000w..
you didnt get an extra 50 watts from spraying the flexible panels and cooling them, your home panel array also went up by 50 watts. that means that the solar conditions made the difference, not your garden hose.
2 of those panels are cheaper than the Ecoflow 400W 😁, probably close to the same cost after all the hardware though
I'll make sure to take two of them and include them in my upcoming 400w panel comparison video!
flexible panels are less efficient?
Do you think that structure would be strong enough to be mounted to the top of a vehicle?
I'd go with the 30 series or 30mm aluminum extrusion for more strength.
That is awesome. I personally would have put cross bars in the middle. ...And made your wife carry it.😊
I needed to mount them to the bars, so the bars had to go along the edges.
Hi I’m in the uk. Stumbled across your channel very interesting.Quick question I’ve got a touring caravan weight not a problem but would you say fit rigid panel or flexible 200w with just the one panel I want to get the most out of it it’s also the renogy ones I was looking at. Thanks mike
I've had really good luck with these 200w flex panels. If you want something thin and lightweight go with the flex panel. If you want something more durable and longer lasting, i'd recommend a glass rigid panel.
I only just started the video, but how is taking a flexible panel, then making your own frame from aluminum, superior to just buying a panels framed in aluminum?
The weight savings is the biggest factor (removing the heavy glass). This video is about building a lightweight and portable option. Put together glass panels like this and you won't be moving it around.
Jasonoid, good morning and happy holidays. I'm definitely considering this solar panel from watching your review, and as always, I have a question . How many of panels would I need to get 120volts, thank you !!
Here are two videos that go over the basics of solar panel wiring and voltage:
Parallel vs Series connections: ruclips.net/video/OZvrTuhJhXs/видео.html
Connecting Solar Panels to Your Power Station: ruclips.net/video/4JG8LvJznLY/видео.html
How would you ground this system if you are using it as a portable with an Ecoflow? Ground rod?
Yes, grounding rod is an option. In my case, it's grounded to my metal carport which is anchored to my concrete pad in multiple places.
is there a reason you didn't just build on top of your carport? If you're going that light, it seems that's the best place for them instead of hauling in and out of the garage. 🤔
Oh I built an array on the top of my carport, here's the video:
ruclips.net/video/q6okxVgBT9M/видео.html
I've tried flex panels 2 years ago and didn't like em and sold them. But they wasn't renogy
They are a big step up from other flex panels I have seen!
their own 175W panels weigh 6 pounds, so for the same weight you could build an even lighter array (or more powerful for the same weight)...
You are right about the weight. Just keep in mind these panels are upgraded over the previous version since they use better cells. They will put out more power and last longer.
if you were looking for a smaller footprint and dont care much about the money the CIGS might have been a better way to go and you prob get a few more watts.
That would be an interesting comparison, CIGs vs these! (Johnny's Weekends did a recent video on the two options)
@@Jasonoid yeah saw that one not all that much difference. I thought it would be a bigger wattage difference with the CIGS. Renogy is making some pretty good Solar products these days.
Those total cost over 1.7K+ but what about the battery generator?
Yes, the batteries will be a separate cost. If your power is consistent, it's probably not worth investing in something like this. However, if you live in an area where you constantly lose power it's a great setup.
Is this panel durable and can be put outside 24/7 or it will degraded fast in 2-3 years?
I guess we will find out, thats one reason I picked up these panels, to test the durability of flex panels.
How does it deal with partial shading?
It's wired in series, it doesn't do well.... but you could always wire it in parallel or a parallel / series combo to get better shading performance.