About Me
Hi, I’m Barbara and I write 12voltsolarpanels.net to help You get info to make the transition from a full-time energy dependent to successful energy efficiency.
I started 12voltsolarpanels.net in 2008 to help people who want to save energy using solar power or deal with the sometimes overwhelming prospect of starting a PV system.
Prior to get married, I spent over 3 years as a teacher assistant and workshop leader.
To contact me mail at info [AT] 12voltsolarpanels.net
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I am South African from and living in Cape Town. I am in the process of converting an Opel Combo 1.4 (Small Panel Van type vehicle) into a mobile coffee shop. I am have an inverter and charger designed that will supply power from 2 deep cycle batteries to run appliances that totals 3000 watts running for 6 hours a day. I would like to use solar energy as a source to recharge the batteries. What will be my best cost effective and practical solution to achieve this objective as apposed to recharge using home electricity. What would be the best solar panels to use and what size should it be? Can panels also be fixed at home and power relayed to batteries later or must it be fixed the vehicle? Only problem with that is roof of panel van might be to small perhaps I think? Any response will be highly appreciated. Thank you.
Hi Faaitih,
I think certainly panels on your car will be impossible to practically function in order to charge your vehicle. You will need to install a solar power system at your home to offset the additional electricity demands your battery powered vehicle will require. You might want to look here if you are interested in buying the equipment and installing a basic system yourself:
http://www.solarhome.org/solarpanelscenter.html
Also, here are a list of companies in South Africa which do solar projects, good luck!
http://www.solarbuzz.com/CompanyListings/SouthAfrica.htm