For the past few years, we’ve been testing our 150W and 160W solar panels on extended cruises. On sunny days while at anchor, our battery banks are typically fully charged by around 1 PM, even while running our refrigerator/freezer 24/7. This got us thinking: why not downsize to a smaller 100W or 120W solar panel and supplement with a flexible panel only when extra charging power is needed?
This summer, we’ll be testing this simple and convenient setup during our cruising adventures. We’ll carry a 100W flexible solar panel stowed neatly under a bunk cushion. On the rare occasion we need additional charging capacity, we’ll plug it in using a T-branch connector with our pole-mounted 120W panel and secure the flexible panel to the bimini top. This configuration provides a combined 220W of power, managed through our 20-amp MPPT controller.
Several of our customers have already tried this arrangement and shared positive feedback about its effectiveness. We’re excited to test it ourselves and will share our results at the end of the season. For now, it’s time to set sail and put this system to the test!