Solar Panel Replacement

[johnbenj]

I have a 2021 R27OB. A few years ago I added a second panel, and changed to Victron MPP controller, but now I wonder if I can't get more power from a single panel than the 2 x 180W I have.

What's the current state of the art and most efficient panel that will fit on a tug and still leave room for a cargo box or a bike on the roof?

John

 

[scross]

I have a single 335 watt panel (66.4”x40”) and Yakima cargo box on our C-28. I could upgrade to an LG Neon 380 (68.5”x41” @ $425) watt panel that would still fit.
Of course there are much more powerful (410-430 watts) panels out there. But they are longer than the 385 watt LG panel if you are trying to keep the max panel width at or under 42”. That would mean having the panel extending aft of the cabin roof into the cockpit area.
There are really diminishing returns in total achieved charging as you compare 380 watts to say 425 watts. Adding an additional house battery (or two) or getting a power station (EcoFlow or Anker) might be more effective.
I just bought an Anker C1000 with 86 AmpHrs to power the portable freezer we keep in the cockpit rather than moving up from 335 watts to 380 watts of solar panel.

 

[johnbenj]

I have a single 335 watt panel (66.4”x40”) and Yakima cargo box on our C-28. ....

Thank you!