Soft solar panels

[WA_R23]

Has any used soft solar panels on the canvas in back? I'm thinking about something like this to add solar and switch to lithium...

Sailboat Application

www.renogy.com

 

[BLipiec]

I haven’t used this brand but had a similar setup on our sailboat bimini. We had two 100 watt flexible panels. It worked well but the flexible panels generally don’t last long as glass panels. They started to turn opaque after 5 years.
For the application on our sailboat it was still the best option because we didn’t need to build a structure to handle heavy panels. We sewed Velcro on the canvas and used sticky sided Velcro on the panels. The attachment method held up well while full time cruising.
For our tug, I’m going to go with glass panels on the roof rails for longevity. Hope that helps.

 

[Eagle 2]

One of my winter projects is to replace all 6 batteries, and add 2 200 Renogy Flex panels on top of my Command Bridge Bimini, run the 10AWG down to the Port side lazarrette where the house bank is, install a Rover 40 Amp MPPT with Bluetooth. This will be seperate from the factory 135 panel that is basically useless, and will be run from the MPPT to the AGM House bank. We also have a Cummins generator, so that will take care of the start and thrust banks while we are making hot water. Our use is primarily on our mooring in Avalon, so solar power is key. Had the same set up on my Mainship Pilot 30, house bank was full by 10am every AM! Flex panels degrade after 5 years, but so does the Bimini/Stratoglass, so it all gets changed out at the same time.

 

[Hamster]

I added a frame on top of my bimini where I put my solar panel. Better location due to less shading.