When planning an off-grid adventure, you should never cut corners on preparation. You should think about all aspects of your off-grid adventure, not least you plan on powering your essential devices. We hear the question “how much solar power do I need?” all the time. Whilst we always try to answer it as best we can, your individual power needs and other factors determine the answer!
This guide will help you get to the bottom of your energy requirements, pick up the right solar panel, and keep your system running, regardless whether you’re operating a fridge, air conditioner, or other appliances.
Solar Panels vs. Solar Blankets
The first thing to think about is solar panels or blankets. Solar power can be either a permanently fixed or a portable power solution. The truth is that there’s pros and cons to each, so it can get confusing when it comes to finding the one that’s right for you. This is definitely true if you’re new to the off-grid power world.
Portable solar solutions are generally better for those who venture into the outdoors from time to time. A solar blanket and a good battery will cover most of your needs if you’re heading out for a day trip or a weekend getaway into the bush.
Permanently mounted solar panels are the sensible choice for real outdoor enthusiasts who spend lots of time on the road. All you have to do is set your panel up and forget; just remember to park it in full sunlight for the best results.
Whether you prefer a portable or fixed setup, you can follow these calculations and tips to optimise your solar setup and enjoy the great outdoors.
Step 1.
Write down all the loads you intend to power during your journey and how many Amps they use. This information is usually found on your product’s label. If you still need some extra clarification, contact your unit’s manufacturer.
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For example, we have a 12V fridge that draws 0.8A an hour on average.
Step 2.
To calculate the Amp-hours (Ah) required by your load(s) per day, multiply the current draw of the individual items by the number of hours the device is used. Add the results of each calculation together, and you have your total required Ah per day.
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For example, the iFROST 40L draws 0.8A an hour and is run all day, requiring 0.8A x 24 = 19.2Ah.
Step 3.
Combining all of the Amp-hour values across your loads will give you your total power requirements for any given day.
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For example, our fridge draws 19.2Ah. If our air conditioner draws 15A and runs for approximately six hours daily, the Amp-hours required for the air conditioner are 15A x 6 = 90Ah.
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Thus, the total amount of Amp-hours consumed in one day is 90Ah + 19.2Ah = 109.2Ah.
Step 4.
We also need to know the battery capacity we’re using to calculate the size of the solar blanket needed. For example, we could use the iTECH120X, a 105Ah deep-cycle battery. Thanks to our advanced LiFePO4 technology, 100% of our 105Ah capacity is usable.
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A 200W Solar Blanket with Raptor Skin can supply a maximum power current of 10.64A. If there are approximately eight hours of sunlight daily, your 200W blanket can supply 10.64A x 8 = 85.12Ah daily.
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Thus, we subtract the power supplied by the solar blanket from the total load, 109.2Ah - 85.12Ah = 24.08Ah.
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With a total usable capacity of 105Ah and 24.08Ah used per day, you would be able to stay off-grid for nearly four and a half days (105Ah / 24.08Ah = 4.4).
Tips for Choosing the Right Solar Blanket:
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Check your solar blanket is positioned in full sunlight to get the stated output. Shade or other poor weather conditions will put a limit on the unit’s performance.
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Always remember to factor in a buffer for unexpected loads or less-than-ideal weather conditions. There is no such thing as too much solar, but there’s such a thing as not enough.
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Want to extend off-grid time? Consider increasing the solar capacity or the capacity of your battery.
Power Your Next Off-Grid Adventure With Confidence
Knowing the basics goes a long way in making your all-out Aussie adventure a successful one. Explore our full range of solar panel folding kits and batteries designed for everything from weekend getaways to extended outback escapes.
iTechworld has the gear to keep you running longer, wherever the road takes you.
