YuenX
A battery generator and solar panel combination makes for GREAT survival/emergency/camping gear. However, not all solar panels are made the same way. Solar technology has improved a LOT over the past decade and prices vary. So, how do you choose a solar panel? In my opinion, solar conversion efficiency and lifespan should be high under consideration. With that said, I own multiple power stations from EcoFlow, Goal Zero, Jackery, Bluetti, and other brands -- consider me an enthusiast. EcoFlow has some great engineers, and naturally, I wanted to take a look at how their 100W fixed solar panel would perform.
Tip: Fixed solar panels (compared to flexible or briefcase ones) are best suited and intended for permanent installations, such as on roof or patio tops, cars (ie. RVs), and similar applications.
PROS
- VERY efficient charging. Most panels should expect between 50-75% charging of the stated wattage
--- In my testing on a sunny, California spring day, I got exactly 75W. This puts it right at the top with LG, Panasonic, and SunPower mono-crystalline panels!
--- Mono-crystalline panels can last 25+ years
- IP68 dust & water resistance for outdoor use (both the MC4 connectors and junction box). See TIPS section for more info
- Similarly priced as equivalent panels from other brands
- Can charge battery-based generators with up to 18-22V input
--- Can be used to charge battery stations that support MC4 connectors, including: EcoFlow, Goal Zero, Jackery, Bluetti
----- If MC4 is not available on your power station, there are MC4 adapters available (ie. MC4-to-Anderson APP)
--- Can be used to charge car batteries
- Relatively light at 14 lbs, though it's not made to be portable
- Drillable frame to mount panel to RV, home, boat (z-brackets not included)
- Circuitry to prevent against reverse charging, overloading, and more
- Parallel-chainable with other panels with an optional Branch Connector (I used Goal Zero's $10 product)
- Responsive, technical support. My questions were quickly answered
CONS
- Fixed design makes this suitable only for RVs, homes, boats, etc. where the panel is permanently attached
- No kickstand to help prop the panel towards the sun at a 45 degree angle for better sun exposure, though this panel is not intended to be carried around
- No direct DC charging via USB (only provides MC4 cable output)
- No built-in battery to store some of the charge generated by the panel
TIPS/NOTES
- Solar lifespan: Panels generally die/become inefficient between 25-30 years
--- I do not know who the maker of the EcoFlow 100W panel is, but the best ones can last as long as 40 years
- Solar panels work best outdoor under full, exposed sun
--- Although it will work under the shade or behind windows, charging efficiency is greatly diminished
--- Panel will STILL charge under cloudy conditions. So, keep the panel out even if you do not see the sun
- To maintain solar efficiency, the panel should be kept clean
--- Remove dust with a soft brush and wipe with a damp (NOT wet) cloth
--- Any residue, such as tree sap, should be removed as soon as possible
--- Mount to a fixture with the cables facing down
--- Should be as close to the batteries as possible, but keep it 14" away
--- Should have a 4" clearance in ALL directions (top, bottom, sides) to ensure adequate air circulation
- IP68 water rating: Panel is "dust tight" (highest available rating) and can withstand water jets from any direction. In other words, it can weather a rain storm and heavy winds!
--- Do not submerge the panel under water
- I didn't see an operating temperature range, but similar panels are: -4F to 122F (-20C to 50C)
- Keep the panels away from fires and heaters
- Do NOT disconnect any cables while the battery station or solar panel is on
CHARGING TIME
- To calculate how much Wattage a device uses: Voltage x Amperage
--- For example, if a vacuum is 120V and 9.5A, its Wattage is 1,140W (120 x 9.5)
- To calculate how long a 100W battery bank or generator would need to charge via solar panel: 100 W / (Panel Wattage x [0.5 or 0.75])
--- In a perfect lab environment, solar panels charge at the indicated wattage (ie. 100 W). Outdoors, expect to only receive 50-75% on a good, sunny day (ie. 50 W – 75 W)
--- For example, if a solar panel is rated for 100W, it could take as fast as 1.33 hours [100 W / (100 W x 0.75)] to charge, depending on environmental conditions and the panel's age
Overall, the EcoFlow 100W solar panel REALLY surprised me by how efficient it is, putting it right at the top with LG, Panasonic, and SunPower manufacturers. It is well-made for fixed-mount type of applications (homes, RVs, boats), looks great, and has had excellent, technical support. Considering how well their EcoFlow Delta power stations are, I expect this solar panel to perform quite well for some time to come.
| Brand | EF ECOFLOW |
|---|---|
| Material | Monocrystalline Silicon |
| Product Dimensions | 38.6"L x 23.1"W x 1.2"H |
| Efficiency | High Efficiency |
| Connector Type | Adaptable to MC4 |
| Included Components | 100W Solar Panel, User Manual, Warranty Card |
| AC Adapter Current | 45 Amps |
| Maximum Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Maximum Power | 100 Watts |
| Manufacturer | EF ECOFLOW |
| Item Weight | 16.61 pounds |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Item model number | SP |
| Size | 100W |
| Style | 100W 12V Solar Panel |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Batteries Required? | No |
Dean Whittle
Tank
