Solar - is it worth it?

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ash1293
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Solar - is it worth it?

Post by ash1293 »

Ok I know if off grid camping solar systems can be worthwhile but the question I have is a little more specific.

I've been clearing out the shed and I have two 'battery saver' rigid solar panels each approximately 90x30cm.
Think they are ICP Solar 10008 models - labelled at 15w.
These will be at least 10yrs old but quite likely nearer 15yrs at a guess.
Without cleaning I thought I'd quickly measure output before putting away - both gave a reading of just over 20v and a current reading of approx 1A.
I also found a new PWM charge controller I picked up somewhere in between picking up the panels and now.
None of the above stands me any real cost.

Is it worth doing anything with this lot or sould I just sell it off and continue clearing out?
1990 1.9DG 34DAT carb Leisuredrive hightop

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Mocki
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Re: Solar - is it worth it?

Post by Mocki »

Ok for keeping a fully charged battery topped up with out any use , like if the vehicle is stood for weeks on end with everything disconnected , but no good for real use ....
anything less than 100w is pointless , infact 100w and a 100ah deep cycle battery is bare minimum really to stand any chance of the battery keeping up with night time lighting , device charging and bit of broadcast radio of a evening while have a glass of your favourite tipple .

If you are thinking of adding a compressor fridge , tv, or boom box stereo you need double that, more if you want heating
Steve
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ash1293
Registered user
Posts: 649
Joined: 27 Jun 2016, 10:49
80-90 Mem No: 16013
Location: York

Re: Solar - is it worth it?

Post by ash1293 »

Mocki wrote:Ok for keeping a fully charged battery topped up with out any use , like if the vehicle is stood for weeks on end with everything disconnected , but no good for real use ....

As suspected really, unless a little project comes to mind in the next few days I think they will get moved along.
1990 1.9DG 34DAT carb Leisuredrive hightop

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