Solar panels are the way to go into off-grid living or a cheaper power bill if you’re looking for renewable energy sources. I purchased and installed four 100-watt Renogy solar panels. After using it, I will share my thoughts on the product in this review.
I tested my four renogy solar panels to see how efficient they were. On a sunny day, I inspected the build of the solar kit and measured its solar output with my MPPT charge controller.
After seeing what they can do, I think the Renogy premium kits are the best 100-watt Panel. The perfect size for most people and offer excellent build quality and output. It’s my favorite choice. Its only real downside is price. It’s a bit pricier than most other 100-watt panels, but it will be well worth the investment if you have the budget.
Renogys 100 watt 12-volt Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Adventure With Thor’s post 100-watt solar panels: how many do you need for a good starting point and clean energy
I love the Renogy Solar Panel because it’s well-built and produces energy. The only downside is that this Panel isn’t as affordable. Still, if you want efficiency, there isn’t any other than getting one with these features!
Renogy Solar Power Review
Renogy’s solar panels are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to save money on their electric bill. These high-quality products come equipped with monocrystalline cells that should increase efficiency, making them even more cost-effective than before! You won’t be disappointed in the quality – I recommend these durable Renonsys modules without hesitation or reservation.
MPPT charge controller Testing
I attached the panels to the roof of my skoolie and watched the voltage and amperage during mid-day changing with my MPPT.
These are excellent results with the MPPT. The open-circuit volts were spot on. The short circuit current was somewhat lower than expected. Still, I performed this test in December when the sun wasn’t as powerful.
These results are suitable for an MPPT charge controller. The volts were right on the money.
Installation & Mounting on my skoolie
I bought four 100-watt solar modules from renogy and found them easy to mount on our Skoolie roof. I did have to purchase extensions for the cables mounting them side by side. The lines were barely not long enough. I will not run into this issue if I install them two by two with the cables facing each other.
The pre-drilled holes make renogy solar very easy to mount, whether you’re attaching them to a wall or roof. Renogy 400-watt starter kit came with Z brackets and mounting hardware.
Renogy’s solar panels are made with a thicker corrosion-resistant aluminum frame than many other companies, allowing them to withstand more weather forces.
Build Quality
The panels are solid and durable, making them perfect for my skoolie. Their connections were easy to use, so I had no problems with looseness when pulling on them experimentally while mounting the paneling in place!
The Renogy 100watt monocrystalline panel has some issues while mounting it. Installing parallel wires was tough because their length is only 2 feet long. with four lined up, you will need to buy several extension cables to make them work. It could become an issue if You want too much room for wiring or just don’t have any!
The Renogy 100-watt solar panel kit is designed for those looking to generate as much energy with a minimalistic design. Its compact size makes it perfect if you have limited space or need efficient equipment that won’t take up too much room. At the same time, the Goal Zero Nomad 20 will provide enough power in any situation without overrunning your utility bill!
Key Specs of the renogy 100 watts monocrystalline
- Solar cell type: Monocrystalline
- Max pwr (Pmax): 100W
- Max pwr volts (Vmp): 18.6V
- Max pwr current (Imp): 5.38A
- Open circuit volts (Voc): 22.3V
- Short circuit current (Isc): 5.86A
- Dimensions: 42.4″ x 20″ x 1.38″ (1077mm x 508mm x 35mm)
- Weight: 13.6 lbs (6.2 kg) weighed, 14.3 lbs (6.5 kg) listed
Pros
- The build is second to none. output is outstanding
- It’s small and compact. It’s the most compact 100-watt Panel I tested and the second lightest.
- Perfect for Tony Home or van conversions. A renogy 100-watt solar is an excellent option for those who need a panel that doesn’t take up a lot of space.
Cons
- The price, Renogy is one of the most popular brands in DIY and portable solar power. While their products offer a slight price increase, Victory is still a great alternative.
Several different options
The Newpowa 100W 12V Monocrystalline Solar for a more affordable price option for those looking for an entry-level. It is nearly the same size as the Renogy Monocrystalline and lighter. Its pwr output lagged behind the Renogy 100w Solar Panel.
The WindyNation 100W 12V Polycrystalline Solar kits are an excellent option for increasing its output. It produces more power than others by as much as 1 watt and offers superb value.
The Rich Solar 100W 12V Polycrystalline Solar is a great budget option for anyone looking for a 100W solar panel. It is rated to produce only 0.7 watts less than the Renogy Mono. Additionally, it is one of the cheapest options on Amazon.
Conclusion
After researching for way too long, I settled on buying the renogy 400w 12v solar panel starter kits because of the combination of build quality, output, and size. The solar kits are easy to scale up with more batteries.
The monocrystalline Panel is easy to mount on a vehicle ( like my skoolie) or roof, such as a tiny home. I am thrilled with the solar kits that I have decided on. With my current setup, I will be able to complete off-grid applications. I want to go for extended outdoor use. I will add more batteries and solar panels to store more power.
