Collection: Van Solar Panels

The semi-rigid walk on panels are very popular for van roof racks and roof decks. You can load gear on them, sit on them, dance on them. We recommend white background for better performance as solar performance degrades with heat, white background stays cooler than black, though doesn't have quite the look. On that note, the 'light' walkables are best in hot environments (cross between regular walk on and flexibles), and best if walkability isn't needed are flexible solar panels (lighter weight, lower profile, better heat dissipation), though walking on them is not recommended. All the same applies for RV solar panels, for dedicated RV solar info go here.

We provide all sizes of rigid, semi-rigid (walkable), semi-rigid 'light' (walk on, not dance on), and flexible marine grade solar panels to create solar van roof decks. Semi-rigid walk on panels are the most popular. On a van roof space is at a premium and shading is often an issue. Our panels are specially designed to work well when partially shaded (diodes, Sunpower cells). They are also built with the highest grade solar cells available (23.7%-25.4% efficient) to produce maximum power per square inch. They are ideal for use on camper vans (lightweight, low profile, robust, highest power output per square foot). For those camping in the south or hot areas, we recommend the 'light' semi rigids as they dissipate heat much better.

We have hundreds if not thousands of these on vans and have three come off to date that were bolted on - not a bad idea to consider our custom mounting system.

For hot climates, consider putting twin walled polycarbonate under the solar panels for airflow, solar works better the closer it is to 70 degrees, losing something like 9% efficiency every 30 degrees over 70. It is also helpful if you have bolt heads or large gaps in support under the panels and you plan to walk on them.

 

​A Few Facts About Marine Grade Solar Panels for Vans

Panel Type - There are many articles written on the two types of solar panels also referred to as photovoltaic panels (PV) ; monocrystalline and polycrystalline.  Monocrystalline panels are made up of single crystal silicon wafers.  Polycrystalline panels are made using silicon wafers that have a multiple crystalline structure.  There are pros and cons to each type of panel.  Monocrystalline panels have a higher output per square inch in direct sun.  They can be sensitive to shading and output may degrade faster on cloudy days.  Polycrystalline  panels tend to have a lower output per square inch in direct sun but are not as sensitive to being shaded.  It is important to note that today's newer high quality polycrystalline panels perform within 5% of monocrystalline panels in full sun.  The premium monocrystalline SunPower cells used in our premium van solar panels provide the best all around performance of any solar cells on the market.

Panel Solar Cell Quality - Because vans have a relatively small available space for solar, maximum power output per surface area is very important. The quality of the solar cells used in solar panels is a key factor in determining the panel output.  Solar cells are passed under a standard light source and graded as to their output (1-10).  Grades are grouped into classes.  Class A (and A+) solar cells are grades 8-10, Class B solar cells are grades 4-7 and so on.  Solar cell quality follows a bell curve; there are many more Class B solar cells than Class A.  We at CMP specify only the best Class A-9 (A+) solar cells for use in our panels which results in a panel efficiency of 16-24%.   Less expensive Class B and C panels are often used on land based solar farms where space is not an issue.  Though a bit more expensive, our customers have reported that our solar panels often outperform the performance rating on the panel label.  Average 5 Sun Hours in a Day

The Importance of Solar Cell Quality - Not All 100 Watt Solar Panels Are Created Equal - ​​High quality high performance solar cells will produce more power at various sun angles than lower quality solar cells; up to 30% more power.  An important consideration in determining how much solar power you need is how many watt hours or amp hours of power you can expect to generate in a 24 hour period.  Let's say you camp in an area that receives an average of 5 hours of full sun a day.  The average is computed based on the seasonal sun angle and the sun angle from morning through evening.  A 100 watt solar panel with average efficiency solar cells may produce 100 watts x 5 hours or 500 watt hours of power in a day.  At 13 volts that's about 38 amp hours in a day.  A 100 watt panel with high efficiency solar cells will produce up to 30% more power in a 24 hour period or 100 watts x 6.5 effective hours or 650 watt hours of power in a day.  At 13 volts, that's about 50 amp hours in a day.  38 amp hours vs. 50 amp hours in a day is significant in a van.  Add more panels in the mix, say 400 watts and we see 152 amp hours vs.200 amp hours, a difference of 48 amp hours. This simple analysis does not take into consideration the impact of clouds or shading both of which will make the disparity even greater.   Clearly, the higher the quality of the solar cells the more power produced over time.

Panel Shape - The largest market for solar panels is commercial applications where many many panels are mounted on a home roof or in a field.  These panels are usually rectangular in shape often twice as long as wide. Vans solar panels need to have different sizing available as they are a different niche. The 150 watt walkable panels have proven our most popular with camper van owners.

Marine Grade - It's no secret that the marine environment, especially salt water, can be tough on equipment. To withstand the rigors of the marine (and van life) environment, solar panels should have strong stout anodized aluminum framing, should be well sealed and waterproof, and have the electrical box on the back of the panel encased in an inert non-corrosive waterproof material (like silicone) to protect the electronic components.Quality marine grade solar panels are designed with bypass diodes to significantly reduce the impact of shading that so often occurs when camping and boating.Choosing the right panel for your needs will require study and/or discussion with PV panel experts.  Our staff at Custom Marine Products are ready to help you design the best solar system for your van's needs. Contact us via email or phone for a free consultation.

Solar Tax Incentive - As long as there is a head, galley, and at least a bunk onboard and your van is used in the United States, your van may qualify. This Federal tax credit is a 30% credit on all qualified expenses to purchase and install solar panels and a solar system (including any installation charges), with no maximum limit for equipment placed in service after 2008. Plus you may have tax credits in your state

Premium Flexible Solar Panels with SunPower Solar Cells

Our SunPower monocrystalline cell flexible 55 - 145 watt high efficiency solar panels are manufactured to our specifications by highly acclaimed solar panel manufacturers. We have PERC cell panels as well for ~25% less cost, 1.5% less efficiency.Unique features of our premium flexible solar panels include the following:

  • Quality materials - We use impermeable ETFE laminates that will not cloud of degrade with exposure to intense UV light. 
  • Grade A+ SunPower solar cells -  The panels are comparable in performance to our rigid panels.
  • Mounting flexibility - Flexible panels will contour and flex against curved surfaces with a maximum bending radius of 30 degrees, ideal for mounting on a van roof, low profile/windage, low weight. 
  • Mounting options - Each panel can be affixed by high bond tape, snap, magnetic or screw mounting. Grommets are an added bonus for ease-of-installation.
  • Plug and play - All flexible panels come with industry standard waterproof MC4 connectors on 3 foot (1 meter) long pigtails.
  • Maximum output with shading - The panels are equipped with blocking and by-pass diodes so a shaded panel has minimal effect on the solar array performance.
  • Purchase options - These panels can be purchased individually or as a complete easy to install kit.  
  • Durable -  Although not recommended, the panels can be lightly stepped on if properly mounted.

Semi-​​Rigid Marine Grade Walk On Solar Panels with SunPower Cells

CMP offers a series of semi-rigidwalkable van solar panels.  With a strong aluminum backing and very thick ETFE laminate non skid surface, these panels can be walked on and can conform to a slightly curved surface (5 degrees).  These panels are ideal for mounting on a van roof as you can walk on them or sit on them (watch wildlife or car races or sunsets) without fear of damaging them. They are also super robust should anything fall on them or hit them. Many customer mount the walk on panels in their roof racks, they are plenty robust to have gear piled on top of them, dance or sit on them. We use premium SunPower Gen III solar cells with an efficiency rating of up to 23.7%, the highest efficiency available anywhere.  There is no glass and no aluminum frame so these panels are considerably lighter than our rigid panels but heavier and stiffer than our flexible panel series.  The expected life of these panels is 15 years.  The panels are available with a white or black backing.  They are available in 60, 110, 120, 150 and 175watt power output. Also as PERC cells, similar efficiency but ~25% less cost. 

Rigid Marine Grade Van Solar Panels w/ SunPower Cells

The ideal van solar panel must be highly efficient (maximum output per surface area) and robust enough to withstand the harsh environments.  We offer various sizes and types of solar panels to meet the unique needs of our camper van customers.  For the live-in van with modest power requirements, we recommend our 110 - 140 watt panels and for the van with greater power requirements we recommend our 140 - 200 watt panels.​All CMP (Custom Marine Products) solar panels are high quality, high output Class A+ marine grade and backed with a 5 year manufacturers and CMP warranty.Our rigid glass monocrystalline solar panels using premium SunPower solar cells are some of the most efficient panels available at over 23% efficiency.  These marine grade solar panels will perform extremely well in both full and partial sun.  They are built to withstand the harsh environments.  When integrated with our Tracer BNor Xtra-N ​MPPT controller, this combination provides the highest output per sq. inch of any solar system available. 

  • 225 Watt walkable panel @louisthevan @scarletandseth on Instagram

  • ​165 Watt Walk On Semi-Rigid Solar Panel

  • J Extrusion Mounting

  • Mounting System for Walk on Panels

  • Twin walled polycarbonate under walkable panel - for heat dissipation, keep heat off boat deck, and added stiffness

  • Also good for mounting walkable panel on uneven surfaces. Side angle of twin walled polycarbonate.

  • Use one of our mounting kits to install your van solar panels.

  • 225 Watt walkable solar panels @VanningWilder on Instagram

  • Ram van with five 155 watt flexible shade tolerant solar panels

  • Walk on solar panels on Sprinter van Roambuilt roof rack

  • 3 x 170 watt SunPower walkable panels on Sprinter with Stealth Rack from Orion

  • Walk On Solar Panels

How to Install the BEST SOLAR System

WALK ON Solar Panels! - ULTIMATE DIY Van Roof Deck

Van Tour

FAQ's

What are the best van solar panels?

The best van solar panels have five essential components:

1. Sunpower cells - even if a cell is partially shaded they still produce power. Sunpower's A+ grade cells (Maxxeon) are among the best available putting out up to 23.7% efficiency.

2. Potted (silicone filled) junction boxes - so saltwater cannot corrode the electronics.

3. Easily mountable, either rigid or flexible solar panels with stout anodized aluminum framing, depending on the application.

4. A+ grade solar cell quality. Cheaper panels will have lower quality, less efficient cells. Space is always at a premium in van applications so the highest efficiency cells available are imperative. Highly efficient cells produce considerably more power at lower sun angles than lower grade cells.

5. Have bypass diodes to significantly reduce the impact of shading that often occurs when camping.

Are there van solar panels for roof mounting?

Yes for sure, there is a company that coats panels in about a quarter inch of EFTE laminate to protect the cells, Custom Marine Products. This is thick coating is necessary because regular flexible panels get micro cracks in the cells when you walk on them which severely degrades their performance. Many van solar panel providers claim you can walk on their flexible panels - which is true if you don't mind wrecking your performance. These walk on panels are a good solution all around because they are not damaged by hail as flexible panels can be. They are very robust and can be mounted with glue, double sided tape, our J mount aluminum extrusions, or screwed on.

What is the difference between a cheap van solar panel and an expensive van solar panel?

High quality high performance solar cells will produce more power at various sun angles than lower quality solar cells; up to 30% more power. An important consideration in determining how much solar power you need is how many watt hours or amp hours of power you can expect to generate in a 24 hour period. Let's say you travel in an area that receives an average of 5 hours of full sun a day. The average is computed based on the seasonal sun angle and the sun angle from morning through evening. A 100 watt solar panel with average efficiency solar cells may produce 100 watts x 5 hours or 500 watt hours of power in a day. At 13 volts that's about 38 amp hours in a day. A 100 watt panel with high efficiency solar cells will produce up to 30% more power in a day or 100 watts x 6.5 effective hours or 650 watt hours of power in a day. At 13 volts, that's about 50 amp hours in a day. 38 amp hours vs. 50 amp hours in a day is significant in a van. Add more panels in the mix, say 400 watts and we see 152 amp hours vs.200 amp hours, a difference of 48 amp hours. This simple analysis does not take into consideration the impact of clouds or shading both of which will make the disparity even greater. The higher the quality of the solar cells the more power produced over time.

How much solar power do I need on my van?

It depends on how much power your van uses and what you are trying to accomplish. Running a radio for an afternoon will use considerably less power than a refrigerator, lights, water pump, and a computer while living in a van. Sizing your solar system is not an exact science and it may be best to leave space on your solar controller to size up as needed. As they say, you can never have too much power! An abundance of power is much more fun than a deficit. We have a google docs sheet available for edit to help you figure out the power you need, see it here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1CnNTXkCZ6kqdcLZ_kXOVL3F_L_zgdWxvnv8pe7XjC8A/edit?usp=sharing Of course feel free to call us any time to discuss your needs, we've built hundreds of solar systems and are happy to share our knowledge.

Can I power my refrigerator with a 120 watt panel?

Most likely yes. It will depend on the battery bank you have to run it when the sun isn't shining. Refrigerators in vans are one of the most frequent uses for solar power. Here is a google docs sheet available to help you figure out the power you need for your van:

Premium Marine Solar Panels/Systems and Lithium Iron Batteries

Improve your cruising experience with the highest efficiency solar panels available. 

  • Shipping

    Products ship day after payment domestically. Free shipping on orders over $1000 applies to Lower 48 US states only. International takes longer. We do not add tariff charges. Call for pricing.

  • Custom Designs

    Our engineers will work with you to design a solar system specific to your needs including Lithium Batteries if you like. (Batteries are 10% off w/ solar system purchase).

1 of 3
  • Doug Heath - Santa Fe, NM

    Customer Service and Product

    Very pleased with the performance of the rigid solar panels purchased in 2022. Customer service also has been consistently excellent both before the sale regarding product selection and after the sale regarding installation and maintenance concerns.

  • William Roth - Kodiak, AK

    Heavy Duty Panels For The Win

    Installed 1200watts of panels on my 56' commercial fishing boat in Kodiak Alaska, with salt spray and harsh winters I hardly run my genset. Installation was a breeze with using silicone to mount them. Most the boats in my family fleet have them now and we are all saving big on the fuel bill! Couldn't be happier with the purchace.

  • Hartwell C - Bellingham, WA

    Easy Install - Great Performance

    I worked with Tom last year to design a system for my sailboat; the dialog and information was very detailed and helpful in helping determine my system needs and completing the installation. Once ordering, the kit arrived in a timely manner and very complete. The install was very straightforward and Tom provided additional information as needed. After the install I took off on a 7 month cruise of British Columbia. The system worked perfectly during my trip. I’m very happy with the equipment and support from CMP and Tom. I highly recommend !

Shade Tolerant Flexible Solar Panels Explained