Camper Solar Panels
Solar panels are the primary source of renewable energy for your camper van. They let you charge your batteries for free using sunlight. The choice between rigid and flexible, and between monocrystalline and polycrystalline, depends on your roof space, budget, and usage conditions. Here we compare the most popular options for van conversions.
Comparison
| Option | Type | Price | Weight | Performance | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rigid Monocrystalline 100W | Rigid Mono | $85 - $160 | 8 kg | Vans with flat roofs or roof rails, standard installations | |
| Rigid Monocrystalline 200W | Rigid Mono | $160 - $300 | 14 kg | Medium and large vans (ProMaster, Sprinter, Transit) as the main panel | |
| Flexible Monocrystalline 100W | Flexible Mono | $110 - $220 | 2.5 kg | Small vans, curved roofs, or when weight is a critical concern | |
| Flexible Monocrystalline 200W | Flexible Mono | $200 - $380 | 4.5 kg | Pop-top roofs, weight-restricted vans, or as a supplementary portable panel |
Rigid Monocrystalline 100W
Rigid Mono
- Highest efficiency per sq ft (20-22%), generates more power in less space
- Exceptional durability: 25-30 year lifespan
- Better performance in low-light or overcast conditions
- Sturdy aluminum frame with easy mounting using standard brackets
- Adds 2-3 inches of height to the roof due to mounting brackets
- Heavier than flexible panels (~18 lbs per 100W panel)
- Don't conform to curved roofs without special mounts
- May create wind noise at highway speeds if poorly mounted
Rigid Monocrystalline 200W
Rigid Mono
- A single panel can cover modest summer loads when irradiation and system losses allow
- Often offers a competitive watts-per-dollar ratio
- Solid construction with tempered glass and aluminum frame
- Compatible with all MPPT and PWM charge controllers on the market
- Considerable size: approximately 40 x 28 inches
- Weight of ~31 lbs requires secure mounting
- Needs a large roof, not suitable for small vans like Transit Connect
- A single panel isn't enough for 200Ah+ systems in winter
Flexible Monocrystalline 100W
Flexible Mono
- Ultra-lightweight: only 5-6 lbs, ideal for weight-limited vans
- Adheres directly to roof without brackets, aerodynamic profile
- Conforms to curved roofs (flexes up to 30 degrees)
- Easy installation with Sikaflex adhesive or VHB tape
- Lower efficiency than rigid panels (17-19%) due to lack of rear ventilation
- Shorter lifespan: 5-10 years compared to 25 for rigid panels
- Run hotter when bonded to the roof, reducing summer performance
- Harder to replace once glued down
Flexible Monocrystalline 200W
Flexible Mono
- High power with minimal weight: only 10 lbs for 200W
- Low profile, doesn't affect the vehicle's total height
- Ideal for pop-top roofs where rigid panels won't fit
- Easy to transport as a portable backup panel
- Higher price per watt than equivalent rigid panels
- Greater annual performance degradation (1-3% per year)
- Risk of delamination if adhesive quality is poor
- Real-world output may be 15-20% below rated power in summer heat
Best for...
Best value
Rigid Monocrystalline 100W
Best overall
Rigid Monocrystalline 200W
Best for small vans
Flexible Monocrystalline 100W
Related calculator
Solar Panel Calculator