Solar systems for campers, vans and panel vans - independent with solar power from SOLARA
Content
Just click in the text!
Storys
- Free and flexible with solar panels by SOLARA
- With Solar Pothole Rodeo 2018
- Satisfied with SOLARA since 2001 - Experience Report
- Self-built solar system (DIY) - Sascha & Franni
- Cool video - explains how to assemble a solar system
Solar system
- How are our solar modules mounted? - Explain videos
- This is how a solar power plant works
- In two steps to your complete solar power system
Products
Solar systems for campervans, camping buses and panel vans
Solar systems for caravans
Solar systems for off-road motorhomes
There is a large selection at SOLARA - complete sets, mobile solar modules, lightweight, flexible solar panels without frames, solar panels with frames, mounting systems, charge controllers, accessories and much more. - Quality made in Germany!
Complete sets with solar panel, charge controller erc.
Mobile solar modules. Compact, foldable, robust more »
Solar panels without frames. Light, flexible, walkable, adhesive-able more »
Solar panels with frames. Robust, powerful, up to 190Wp more »
Mounting system. ABS-holdings spoiler, roof grommet more »
Charge controller and remote meter with various functions more »
Free and flexible with solar panels by SOLARA
On the road in your camper you can drift away and drive where ever you want. Even in the deepest wild without any connection to the grid thanks to SOLARA-modules you don’t have to give up your stable power source. The drink in the evening, whether beer or white wine, is definitely well chilled – the photovoltaic modules on top of your mobil home will take care of that.
With our SOLARA-modules for your camper you get
- Proven solar technology for over 20 years - Made in Germany
- Top material quality - excellent workmanship - with long-term guarantees
- Particularly high electricity yields e.g. with back-contact high-tech solar cells with optimal low-light performance (even under diffuse light)
- Tested under the toughest conditions and passed every test!
- Matching charge controllers and inverters from premium manufacturers with a 5-year guarantee
- Service whenever you need us - test us!
Sascha u Franni - Solar system self-built with lots of fun (DIY) for a fantastic trip!
Self-sufficient supply of solar power from SOLARA solar modules
Dear SOLARA,
we would like to thank you once again for your kind support. We have already been able to test them and are very satisfied.
Here are a few impressions of our installation of the solar system and our trip with the SOLARA solar modules.
Sascha and Franni
The SOLARA solar system consists of:
- 1 x Solara Special-Profi Pack 03 with 240 Watt and Victron MPPT 100/20 with Bluetooth for display, (2 x 120 Watt on 1250x550x35mm), Made in Germany, 5 years product guarantee
This supplies the following with power:
- 2x mobile phones
- 2x laptop (inverter)
- tablet
- 2x cameras
- light (ceiling light etc)
- water pump (outdoor shower)
- fridge
- radio
Mobile solar module for campers - use explained simply
Bernhard Reitmeier: "When I saw it for the first time in the Freistaat camping shop in Sulzemoos, I immediately knew how useful this solar module would be".
Bernhard Reitmeier has tested a solar module and created a short and a somewhat longer explanatory video about the mobile DCsolar Power Move solar module. These two videos explain the use, advantages and applications of the mobile solar system in a way that everyone can understand. DCsolar is a brand of SOLARA GmbH.
(videos only available in German)
Short explanatory video about the use of the "Power Move" mobile solar module
Detailed explanation of the use of the "Power Move" mobile solar module
Cool video - Explains how to assemble a solar system: complete set with solar module, charge controller, retaining spoiler, adhesive set, cables and detailed assembly instructions.
Matching the video: The 1×1 of the self-sufficient solar system with material list of the complete set and much more by Patascha's World, Luxembourg's largest road trip travel blog: click here!
(video and blog only available in German)
With Solar Pothole Rodeo 2018 - Experience Report Team #106 Bullivers Travels and SOLARA Solar System
Autorally from Austria with a VW bus and solar system on the roof via Hungary, Carpathians, Moldova to the Black Sea. Back with sufficient solar power via Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia with the destination Split.
More in our blog - click here
Satisfied with SOLARA solar panels since 2001
Solar has been trouble-free and maintenance-free for over 17 years and 350,000 kilometers across Europe - time-term test under the toughest conditions
SOLARA solar panels on the VW bus or camper, van or removal vehicle. Since 2001, the solar panels reliably supply power for the on-board supply. Solar power with flat solar power plants for light, refrigerator, TV and the computer.
"Since my first steps in life, I am vacationing in this family bus with solar power. The solar panels were already mounted on the bus by my parents in 2001. Until today, the solar modules work perfectly fine. Whether North Cape or Sicily, the solar panels have always supplied us with reliable energy or electricity.
Last year, I took the camper from my parents and the solar panels still provide me with the best services, or solar power. They have been running trouble-free and maintenance-free for 17 years and 350,000 kilometres across Europe.
Now I want to expand my 100Wp solar system, because I need more solar power. Of course I have opted for SOLARA again. I'm looking forward to the mobile solar panel to be able to camp autonomously for even longer."
Sincerely Thomas Kees
SOLARA Vision - A special product example from our extensive range
SOLARA S-series Vision 110 watts (440 Wh/d*)
Unique SOLARA solar module with hardened special solar glass on the front and back.
- Solar module with high-performance solar cells
- hail-resistant and repellent
- Strong and seawater-resistant aluminium profile frame
- especially durable - 5 years warranty!
This is how a solar power plant works
Are you interested in the idea of covering the power needs of your motorhome or camper in the future with a solar power system? Then you have come to the right place. With our simple guide you will get step by step to the optimal solar power system, which is ideally adjusted to your individual power consumption.
We have equipment for any needs
For your RV or caravan you need as shown in the drawing:
- SOLARAMODUL (e.g. S-Series) for power generation
- ABS-holding spoiler in an appealing white to securely mount the solar panel
- Specialized adhesive set for securely gluing the ABS-holding spoilers to to your vehicle roof
- Cable tunnel (Art.-No. DD1, in white) for waterproof and permanent routing of the cable from the solar panel to the charge controller
- Charge controller with LED-display for monitoring the battery and charge and also to protect the battery against overcharging and reverse currents
- UV-resistant cable to connect the solar panel with the charge controller and the battery
In addition you need a battery and possibly an inverter for 230V for household current, as long as they are not already on board. You can buy the components individually or as a SOLARA set.
In two steps to your SOLARA-complete-solar-power-system for your camper
Step 1: Determination of your daily power requirement
To find out how big your solar system should be for your motorhome, camper, van, caravan etc., you have to take a closer look at your consumers and their energy requirements. This depends on the number of devices, the power consumption of the device and the daily switch-on time. In addition, the number of people and the period of use within a year influence the energy consumption.
Sum up the energy consumption of your camper etc. according to the table below - the result is your daily power requirement (Wh/d, wtt hours per day). Depending on your consumption behaviour and the time of use within a year, this consumption should be more or less covered by the solar system.
| Device | Power Rating | Operating time/day | consumption/day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radio | 15 watt | 4 hours | 60 Wh/d |
| Color-TV | 40 watt | 3 hours | 120 Wh/d |
| 12V SAT Receiver | 40 watt | 3 hours | 120 Wh/d |
| Lamps | 10 watt | 5 hours | 50 Wh/d |
| Compressor fridge | 50 watt | 6 hours |
300 Wh/d |
| mobile phone | 5 watt | 2 hours |
10 Wh/d |
| tablet PC | 10 watt | 2 hours |
20 Wh/d |
| Total daily requirement | 680 Wh/d | ||
*Wh/d = watthour per day
The outcome in this example: with a power consumption of 680Wh/d you would require in the summer time a solar panel of 160Wp (watt peak = maximum power) we recommend you a SOLARA complete system with SOLARA modules of the highest quality including optimized for that a quality-charge controller and a mounting system from our own research with TÜV-tested security.
Here you see a SOLARA complete set for the leisure usages. We have optimized it for different energy needs. Therefore, they are available in different designs and performance levels.
Please consider when choosing the set or module for your RV, when and how often you are on the track. When in doubt, the best way is to go with the next higher performance class than the estimated or an additional module. This gives you more energy security, and a faster charge.
Step 2: Selection of the SOLARA complete set for your individual daily power requirements
Based on the calculated electricity requiremen, select one of the following sets.
All SOLARA complete sets consist of high-quality SOLARA solar modules - Made in Germany, matching charge controlers, holding spoilers, mounting system with adhesive set for easy installation on the roof of a camper or motorhome, as well as with solar cables and understandable assembly instructions.
SOLARA Complete Sets
Typ 1: Complete set - Solar System with 100 Wp
- Designed for a daily requirement about 400 Wh/d in summer
- Suitable for small to medium sized campers
- Usage period: april to september
- Use: electricity for lighting, pump, radio, TV/SAT
Our recommendations for charging a battery set (e. g. on-board battery)
Our recommendations for charging two battery circuits (for example, load the starter battery and keep it fit, even during long standing periods) for example, board and starter battery:
- SOLARA premium pack Art.-No. PRP01 – with a silver-colored frame profile and 110 Wp and 440 Wh/d
Our recommendations for maximum power in a minimal area for charging a battery circuit (e.g. only on-board battery):
SOLARA power pack Art.-No. POP01 – high performance solar panels with 125 Wp and 555 Wh/d
The SOLARA Power Pack are technically and optically the most sophisticated complete sets currently available on the market. With a particularly elegant appearance. The solar module of the SOLARA Power S-series have the new back-contact cell technology and an increased number of cells. As a result, the solar module has a high charging voltage and is not shaded by conductor tracks on the front. Combined with a very high cell efficiency of over 22% and the enclosed MPPT controller, the power sets are one of the most profitable solar systems on the market. Click here for more information!
Typ 2: Complete set - Solar system 110 - 220 Wp
- Designed for a daily demand of 400 to 800 Wh/d in the summertime
- Ideal for medium to large motorhomes
- Usage period: all year
- Use: power consumption by lightning, pump, radio, TV/SAT
Our recommendations for charging a battery circuit (for example, on-board battery):
Our recommendations for charging two battery circuits (for example, load the starter battery and keep it fit, even during long standing periods) for example, board and starter battery:
- SOLARA premium pack Art-No. PRP02 or PRP03 – with premium solar panels from SOLARA S-series
Our recommendations for maximum power in a minimal area for charging a battery circuit (e.g. only on-board battery):
SOLARA power Pack Art-No. POP02 or POP03 - with high performance solar panels with 150 Wp or 250 Wp and 705 Wh/d or 1110Wp
- Module(s) of the SOLARA Power S-series with a black frame profile
- MPPT charge controller, Victron 15 A / 20 A / 30 A, incl. Bluetooth for remote control via smartphone
- ABS retaining spoiler, in black, specially coated, UV-stable, including screws
- ABS roof duct, in black, for watertight cable ducting
- Special adhesive set SOLARA FIX PACK for gluing the retaining spoiler and roof duct
- Module connection cable with UV-resistant coating and MC4 connector system
Click here for more information!
Typ 3: Complete set - Solar systems with more than 220 Wp
- Designed for a power consumption in the summer of more than 800Wh/d
- Ideal for medium to large motorhome
- Usage period: all year
- Use: electricity for lightning, pump, radio, TV/SAT, air compressor, refrigerator
- Recommended for charging two battery circuits (e.g. board and starter battery)
Our recommendations for charging two battery circuits (for example, load the starter battery and keep it fit, even during long standing periods) for example, board and starter battery:
- SOLARA premium pack item no. PRP04 – 320 Wp and 1280 Wh/d Premium SOLARA S-series
Our recommendations for maximum power in a minimal area for charging a battery circuit (e.g. only on-board battery):
SOLARA power pack Art.-No. POP04 - high performance solar panels with 300 Wp and 1410 Wp/d
This SOLARA Power Pack is currently the most powerful complete set from SOLARA. The technical and optical quality is practically unique. The completely black solar module with matching holding spoilers and roof duct results in a particularly elegant appearance. The solar module of the SOLARA Power S-series has the new back-contact cell technology and an increased number of cells. As a result, the solar module has a high charging voltage and is not shaded by conductor tracks on the front. Combined with a very high cell efficiency of over 22% and the enclosed MPPT controller, the power sets are one of the most profitable solar systems on the market. Click here for more information!
More questions? - contact us:
You have questions or suggestions, would like to become a reseller or would like advice on a specific topic. SOLARA will be happy to assist you - just click on Contact, fill out the form and send it off.
Special solar panels from SOLARA for camper vans, vans, expansion vehicles etc. - top quality for over 20 years!
A short a real dialogue between a camper and SOLARA about the use of a flat and light solar panel for the roof of their camper
Camper:
Good Morning,
ich would like to buy a foldable solar panel in order to charge the two on-board batteries in my VW T6 Beach. That is when I came across the modules from SOLARA.
My questions:
- What are the main differences between the SOLARA Power Mobil with 102 Wp and DCsolar Power Flex with 110 Wp?
- The DCsolar panels has a little more power at a significant cheaper price. Why choose the 102 Wp model?
I am one of those people who like to pay more for quality if it also proves that longevity is sustainable. True to the motto: "It was always more expensive to buy something twice!" I look forward to your reply.
SOLARA:
Thank you for you interest in our products. Our Power Mobil now also has 110 watts, the two modules no longer differ in this! Generally the Power Mobil solar panels are made in Germany and much more stable than the DCsolar Power Move solar module, which is produced for us in Asia. Here someone even can accidentally step on it and it does not matter, it is also fully seawater-compatible. It has a 5 year product guarantee compared to 2 years for the DCsolar Power Move.
The Power Mobile solar panel is intended for those who want to use the module almost every day for many years. The cable and charge controller are identical in both modules.
Camper:
Thank you for the quick and informative presentation. Then I know that the Power Mobile is the right choice for me. I assume that I still have to have a suitable 12V socket installed, since the regular cigarette lighter/12V sockets are probably not an option.
SOLARA:
Thank you for your feedback. Yes, you can use the regulator on your existing cigarette lighter, it was developed for that.
Camper:
I still have a question,
a) to the solar controller Fox 062. It is said that this would only be approved by the manufacturer up to 100Wp power. How do you see that?
b) the supply via the existing 12V sockets is not critical with regard to the cable cross-section of the VW T6 California Beach?
SOLARA:
The charge controller can do a little more than 6V, which is also the maximum that comes from the solar panel, so that is not a problem. So far, we have sold countless solar systems in the past few years and there have been no complaints about this and most of the photovoltaic systems are used in vehicles like your camper.
In my opinion, the cable cross-section is not critical, since much more than 6A can also be taken from there. It is only necessary to check in advance whether the corresponding cabling has been changed or is still in its original condition.
Camper:
So now I could finally attach the Power Mobile solar panel. Wonderful, eyelets are already attached - was not easy, but it fits.
My question: What about using it in the rain? I am away for the weekend and will sleep in the bus. The Power Mobil solar panel is located on the roof of the camper and is attached to the C-rails. A thunderstorm threatens today. I assume that this should not matter to the solar panel and the plug on the panel (splash-proof). Correct? I like the module very much in terms of quality.
SOLARA:
Thank you for the positive feedback. You can be easily leave the solar panel outside, it is fully suitable for sea salt water, so no problem.
Camper:
thank you for the feedback. That was how I understood the information on your homepage. Attached is a photo from the weekend that you are welcome to use.
Particularly light and flat solar panels without frames
for your camper, caravan etc. where weight and flexibility are foremost - with a construction height of only 4mm!
SOLARA solar modules of the M-series and Power M-series are Made in Germany.
- Perfect solar panels for direct mounting on the vehicle roof or boat deck.
- Simply glue or screw on the solar module.
- The SOLARA solar panels are absolutely accessible on stable ground.
- The solar module surface (Nowolon) is non-slip and dirt-repellent like Teflon.
- The coated aluminum sandwich carrier plate stabilizes the solar module and dissipates the heat.
Proven quality for over 20 years. Used and tested under the toughest conditions on marine signs, lifeboats, for cruising sailors and much more.
| SOLARA Power M-series | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typ | S555M34 | S515M31 | S575M35 | S705M43 |
| Average daily yield in summer Wh/d | 555 | 515 | 575 | 705 |
| Nominal power (Pmpp) Wp* | 125 | 115 | 130 | 160 |
| Weight kg | 4.2 | 3.6 | 4.4 | 5.2 |
| SOLARA M-series | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typ | S50P36 | S140P42 | S200P43 | S280P43 | S400P41 |
| Average daily yield in summer Wh/d | 50 | 140 | 200 | 280 | 400 |
| Nominal power (Pmpp) Wp* | 15 | 35 | 50 | 70 | 100 |
| Weight kg | 0.9 | 1.7 | 2.2 | 2.8 | 3.7 |
*Performance at STC | Under standard test conditions STC (1000 W/m², spectrum AM 1.5, cell temperature 25°C)
As of 02/2022. All statements without guarantee. Technical changes reserved.
New catalogue - Solar technology simply explained and with all products
New solar charge controller from SOLARA for two independent batteries
With the new SOLARA controller, the living area and starter (motor) battery can be charged simultaneously with the solar system. This ensures, especially with long idle times, that all batteries on board are fully charged. Excess solar energy can also be converted into a second, e.g. motor battery or even a LiFePo battery so no power will be wasted.
Modern four-stage PWM charging process with temperature compensation, external sensor and overcharge protection guarantees optimal charging. The large, very easy-to-read LCD display shows the energy flows and the state of charge of the batteries.
For technology enthusiasts, the new SOLARA controller SR350DUO has extensive control, programming, safety and acoustic warning functions. Thanks to the integrated data logger, all information can even be exported using the MXI adapter.
Novel touch buttons avoid mechanical switches that can lead to defects in the camper due to frequent vibrations.
The SOLARA controller has large 16 qmm connection terminals, is suitable for 12V and 24V systems up to 20A charging current and, due to its design, is also suitable as a built-in device. The electronics are completely encapsulated in a robust housing and thus protected against moisture. More here!
The latest mobile solar modules from SOLARA
SOLARA POWER MOBIL Plus 102Wp (409 Wh/d*) for Volkswagen models T5 and T6 as well as Fiat Ducato and Mercedes Vito
OPTICS AND DESIGN - windscreen cover
- Highly durable surface fabric with water-stop incorporation
- Fully opaque and darkening
- Extremely good insulating properties thanks to integrated insulating core made of extreme insulator (absolutely closed-pore foam)
- Set up and take down quickly thanks to the innovative magnet system
- Easy to clean and stow away, takes up little space
Solar module
- Solar module integrated in the windscreen cover, but can also be used separately
- Fast attachment of the solar module to the cover with Velcro
- Particularly light-sensitive and high-yield solar cells with over 22% efficiency
- UV-stable solar connection cable and cable outlet
- Integrated theft protection for the entire solar system
Inclusive
- Cable charge controller Fox 062, 6A (also suitable for lithium batteries), cable 5m
- Cable lock (2m wire)
Optional
- Extension cable (5m) with a Sure Seal plug
SOLARA POWER MOBIL solar module with 110Wp (485 Wh/d*)
ELEGANT AND ATTRACTIVE DESIGN
- Flexible to use thanks to innovative all-round fabric edging
- Zipper or Velcro connections can be retrofitted or fixing lugs can be set
- Can be stowed away to save space thanks to the foldable module surface
- Effective battery charging even when the vehicle is standing in the shade
- No permanent assembly necessary
MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY
- Solar module with extremely high current efficiency through the use of monocrystalline solar cells with rear contact with over 22% efficiency
- High-yield solar modules in every season and also in diffuse light (low light)
- UV-stable solar connection cable and cable outlet
INCLUDED
- 7.5m cable, on the module with plug
- Charge controller integrated in the cable
The magazine Reisemobil International 09/2019 concludes in its test:
With the Power Mobil, SOLARA is introducing a high-performance, very high-quality solar panel at a fair price ... ”Test Mobile Solar Panels, magazine Reisemobil Int. 9/2019
A selection of vehicles with solar panels from SOLARA
More information
Simply click on the blue terms here and you will automatically be directed to the right page for more information on the following topics: Complete sets, solar panels with frames, solar panels flat without frames, charge controllers and displays, mounting systems.
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