When I think of portable solar panels, I do not think of the little solar sticks and lights you can buy from your local hardware house to enhance your homes’ security and aesthetic appeal. Instead my mind turns to the camping and boating industry.
At the outset, I would like to define an electrical term: Extra Low Voltage (ELV) are voltages less than 120V DC or 50V AC. If the voltages in the solar system you are purchasing or building exceeds these limits then YOU MUST USE A LICENSED ELECTRICIAN for all electrical work. Can I make myself clearer?
Now, as you’re a responsible, electrically unqualified camper, you heed my advice and check the voltage ratings on the back of the three panels you purchased. The labels say Voc = 46V so you feel safe to continue as it’s under the 120V maximum set by the Standards. However if you link your three panels in series, +ve to -ve, +ve to -ve, like a daisy chain, then the aggregate voltage will be 3 x 46V = 138V, well above the 120V limit. If you so much as touch the wiring of this system you could be subject to legal prosecution, or worse still solar electrocution, which does not stand up in court.
If on the other hand, you connected the three panels in parallel, the voltage would remain at 48V and you could meddle to your heart’s content without having to be licensed or worrying about your future life.
So if you’re a grey nomad wishing to wile away your twilight years travelling around Australia, please follow this advice.
Ensure that every component making up the solar power system you are installing, or having installed, complies with Australian Standards.
If you’re going to be using your portable solar system for loads such as radio, TV, fridges and computers, you will also require a supplementary 12V or 24V battery, safely housed in an approved cabinet or enclosure; it will not suffice to use the vehicle’s battery. If you are powering 240V AC appliances then you will also need an inverter
Do not perform any electric work yourself, however easy it may seem, unless it’s under the ELV threshold or you’re a licensed electrician.
Remember, if you are in a boat or caravan, you are within a ‘floating’ system – electrical earthing behaves differently, as does your school-learnt, electrical theory.
There are excellent organisations in Australia who will gladly advise you of the best options for portable solar power. Try the Caravan and Motorhome Club of Australia or the Australasian Touring Caravan and Camping Club as your first stop to gather the information you need to talk to the solar retailers. I recommend you consult with them before committing to any solution. Please bear in mind that they will have their ‘preferred’ suppliers.
Energis has a team of electrical engineers who will design and install a suitable system for your needs. Just call them on 1300 782 217 to arrange an obligation-free appraisal for your caravan, tent or boat.
