Lightweight flexible photovoltaic panel installation diagram

What is a flexible solar panel setup?

A flexible solar panel setup is usually best for on-the-go solar power instead of as a permanent home solar solution. When you're out on the trail, camping, or driving long distances, having a durable, lightweight, and flexible solar panel setup can be a great way to generate free, clean electricity from the sun.

How much do flexible solar panels weigh?

Many flexible solar panels weigh about five pounds versus around 40 pounds for rigid panels. Because of their lighter weight and smaller size, flexible solar panels are great for portable needs. Why do flexible solar panels fail?

What is the difference between flexible and conventional solar panels?

Even though both conventional and flexible solar panels are comprised of photovoltaic material, they are completely different in terms of design, weight, installation, and application. In this section we discuss the similarities and differences between flexible and conventional solar panels.

How efficient are flexible solar panels?

Flexible solar panels typically have an efficiency rating between seven and 15 percent. Use the EnergySage Marketplace to learn more about your solar options! There are very few (if any) solar installers who offer flexible panels as part of a rooftop or ground-mounted system.

How do flexible solar panels work?

Ideal for mounting on cars, cabins, boats, and RVs, flexible solar panels utilize photovoltaic cells to produce electricity, just like conventional panels. Substituting for the rigid glass and aluminum frame of regular panels, a flexible material houses the photovoltaic cells inside flexible solar panels.

Are flexible solar panels better than rigid solar panels?

Flexible solar panels are less efficient than rigid panels but have a wider variety of applications due to their flexibility and thin size (typically 200 micrometers). Recently, organic silicon cells have been used to make flexible solar panels. Given their light weight, flexible solar panels are ideal for portable solar applications.