Flexible solar panels

[John E Davies]

In my head I really like the idea of replacing the ugly and water catching flat glass “dining room table” that sits on Mouse’s roof, with snug fitting, lightweight plastic ones. It would look SO much better, self drain, and be more clear of wind, bugs and tree branches. Reality sets in.

 

They trap heat against the roof, so they run hot; are prone to scratching and cracking; have a much shorter life expectancy; and they cost more. Plus there are a lot of panels being made with poor quality “second” cells.

 

Intersting article here.... https://cargovanconversion.com/10280/the-current-state-of-flexible-solar-panels

 

Maybe I will swap mine out in ten years when the technology is better.

 

John Davies

 

Spokane WA

[Rumline]

I agree, I wish the Oliver install was less table-like.  I actually like what they did for Overland's panel layout.

 

The flexible panels leave much to be desired at this point.  Although I like what Kimberley does with flexible panels: bond them to a second "tropical" roof layer which has an air gap between it and the main roof.  This eliminates the heat issue and provides secondary insulation benefits against the sun beating down.  But there goes the weight advantage from flexible panels.