There are two main solar panel types: monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. Polycrystalline panels, which are light blue in color, are less efficient than monocrystalline panels, but they are also cheaper. Monocrystalline panels, which are darker in color, are more space-efficient. Monocrystalline panels are more expensive, but if efficiency is a main factor, they're a great product.

The 12V/24V in product titles (ex. 100W 12V Monocrystalline Solar panel) does not refer to the actual voltage (Voc or Vmp) of the solar panels, but rather to the voltage of the solar system or energy storage system to which the panel is best suited. The voltage of the solar panel must be higher than the solar system voltage.

To understand what solar panels are and how solar panels work, first, let's talk about the basics of how solar energy is generated.
The current collected by solar panels then feeds into a charge controller, which controls how much current goes to a battery. Charge controllers prevent batteries from being overcharged. They also have the ability to shut down a system if the energy stored dips below 50%. Batteries store and produce DC power. In order to use AC appliances, such as microwaves, laptops, and phone chargers, an inverter is used to change the power from DC into AC power. In a home, home solar panels for the house are connected to a grid inverter, which is then connected to the existing electrical network in your house. In an RV, van, or boat, you can choose from a range of different inverters based on your specific energy needs.
To summarize, the key components of a solar installation include: Solar panels (Collection), Charge Controllers (Monitoring), Batteries (Storage), Inverters (Usage).

To determine what size system will best fit your needs and cut down the solar panel cost to the largest extend. Make a list of all the appliances and devices you plan on running. The main appliances taken into consideration when addressing energy needs may include a TV, lighting, water pump, laptop, fans, microwave, and refrigerator. We recommend inputting that information into the Renogy solar panel calculator to help determine your specific solar panel needs.

>To determine what size system will best fit your needs, make a list of all the appliances and devices you plan on running. The main appliances to take into consideration when addressing energy needs may include a TV, lighting, water pump, laptop, fans, microwave, and refrigerator. We recommend using the Renogy solar panel calculator to help determine your specific needs.