Solar Panels
Solar panels are devices for capturing the energy in sunlight.
Solar photovoltaic panels contain arrays of solar cells that convert light into electricity.
They are called solar after the sun or "Sol" because the sun is the most powerful source of the light available for use.
The solar cells are sometimes called photovoltaic cells, photovoltaic meaning literally "light-electricity".
With over 25 years of experience in the industry, at The 12 Volt Shop we pride ourselves on our range of solar panels and the knowledge of our staff.
We are the Australian experts in solar equipment for mobile applications such as caravans or motor home's.
Come in and see us or call us about our solar panels!
Mono crystalline vs Polycrystalline Solar Panels:
Busting Myths
One of the most common comments that our specialist team hear from customers relates to the issue of mono crystalline vs polycrystalline (or ‘multi crystalline’) solar panels. Although mono crystalline panels had the initial advantage of being seen as the superior technology in the Australian market, as time goes on and both technologies improve, it becomes increasingly apparent that the the quality and reliability of the manufacturer is far more important than which of the two technologies is chosen.
Monocrystalline cells are made from a single crystal of ultra pure silicon. They are the original silicon solar cell and they are still the most efficient today. Mono cells are typically a little more expensive since they’re a little more difficult to manufacture. The benefit of mono cells is that they perform slightly better under low light conditions equating to better production on cloudy days versus polycrystalline panels. How much better?. Suffice to say, you may get up to about 0.5% better production per annum using mono cells versus using polycrystalline.
Polycrystalline cells are made up of multiple crystals and are generally less expensive to manufacture than mono cells. The gap in performance has narrowed significantly over the years to the point where they are very close. Since Polycrystalline panels are made up of several crystals, this means that they also absorb less sunlight and produce slightly less than mono cells per metre squared.
Single crystal silicon is more efficient at converting photons to electrons for electricity, the poly-silicon its much less efficient because electrons are captured or generated less efficiently where the crystals of silicon touch. However, even though poly solar panels are not as efficient, they are cheaper to manufacture so they can still be competitive on a $/watt basis. They would just need more area to produce the same amount of electricity as the mono-crystalline panels.
Even though a mono crystalline panel has the potential to last up to 50 years, most warranties only go up to 25 years which polycrystalline panels are able to reach just fine.
Overall, the production process for mono crystalline silicon is mature, and the process for polycrystalline in still maturing. As purity and process tolerances for polycrystalline improves, the performance gaps between the two are narrowing.
Yingli Solar Panels
As one of the world's largest solar panel manufacturer, Yingli Solar is a leader in solar PV technology. With almost 10% global market share, more homes and businesses around the world are choosing Yingli Solar than any other PV brand.
Featuring world-class technology, high-quality workmanship and robust construction, our solar panels are designed to withstand harsh Australian conditions.
Ranked amongst the five best solar panels in world by PHOTON and TÜV Rheinland, solar panel reviews have rated Yingli Solar panels highly for our performance, quality and durability.
Yingli Green Energy is a leading solar energy company and one of the world’s first fully vertically integrated photovoltaic manufacturers.
They develop, manufacture, and sell high-quality modules under the brand Yingli Solar to a wide range of markets, including Germany, Australia, Spain, Italy, Greece, France, South Korea, China, and the United States.
Yingli Solar have been the industry leaders for solar panel production for the last 3 years, with production increasing each year.
- Over 19,000 employees worldwide
- More than 30 branch offices and subsidiaries globally with local expertise
- Publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange since 2007 (NYSE: YGE)
- Over 14 GW of Yingli Solar modules installed around the world
- Recipient of numerous international awards and certificates including Social Accountability 8000 and ISO certifications
- Consistent high quality resulting from their vertically-integrated production model
- Up to 25 year limited peak power warranty and 5 year limited product warranty
- Durable, corrosion-resistant aluminium frame tested for pressure loads of up to 5,400 Pa
- Comprehensive product and facility certifications
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT YINGLI SOLAR AND THE RIGOROUS TESTING THEIR PANELS GO THROUGH
Model No. |
SPYL6 |
SPYL10 |
SPYL20 |
SPYL30 |
SPYL40 |
SPYL50 |
SPYL60 |
SPYL90 |
SPYL100 |
SPYL135 | SPYL140 |
SPYL190 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Caravan & Motorhome Battery Charging |
|||||||||||
Rated Power (Watts) |
6W
|
10W
|
20W
|
30W
|
40W
|
50W
|
60W
|
90W
|
100W
|
135w |
140W
|
190W
|
Rated Voltage (Vmpp) |
17.0V
|
17.5V
|
17.5V
|
17.5V
|
17.5V
|
17.5V
|
17.5V
|
17.5V
|
18.5V
|
17.6V |
18V
|
45V
|
Rated Current (Impp) |
0.35A
|
0.57A
|
1.14A
|
1.71A
|
2.29A
|
2.9A
|
3.43A
|
5.14A
|
5.41A
|
7.67A |
7.77A
|
5.59A
|
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) |
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
21.0V
|
22.9V
|
22.3V |
22.3V
|
36.36V
|
Short Circuit Current (Isc) |
0.4A
|
0.66A
|
1.30A
|
2.0A
|
2.25A
|
3.1A
|
3.8A
|
5.6A
|
7.74A
|
8.20A |
8.30A
|
5.23A
|
No. of Cells |
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
36 in series |
36 in series
|
72 in series
|
Dimensions MM (LxWxH) |
350x187x25mm
|
285x350x25mm
|
525x350x25mm
|
535x460x25mm
|
660x490x25mm
|
660x540x25mm
|
660x630x25mm
|
1010x660x25mm
|
1040x660x25mm
|
1470x680x25mm |
1470x680x25mm
|
1310x990x40mm
|
Weight |
1.0KG
|
1.4KG
|
2.3KG
|
3.3KG
|
5.4KG
|
6.5KG
|
7.3KG
|
8.1KG
|
10.5KG
|
12.0KG |
12.0KG
|
15.2KG
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
12V |
12V
|
24V
|
Uni-Solar *
*NOT MANUFACTURED ANYMORE - LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
*Unfortunately Uni-Solar Panels are no longer manufactured, and there are limited stock available of the modules left.
Uni-Solar have panels suitable for every application. Uni-Solar Technology is available in framed, flexible, portable and the new adhesive PVL range. These new PVL modules can be adhered to many surfaces including fibreglass, aluminium and galvanized or painted metal surfaces.
Why Do UNI-SOLAR Products Outperform Others?
All solar panels are rated in terms of peak power output (watts).
Outdoors, under normally higher operating temperatures, solar panel performance changes, depending on temperature, solar spectrum (light color) and related effects.
UNI-SOLAR products are less affected by temperature than monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar technology products.
The result is up to 20% more delivered energy.**
** Source Solfest, “Module Shoot Out”
Arguably Uni-Solar panels are the best suited to the Australian environment with many benefits putting them ahead of the rest of the pack. The most notable benefits are:
- Shade tolerant
The advanced technology of the Uni-Solar modules allows a solar module to produce power even when in partial shade! Shading a small section of a Uni-Solar panel will cause only minimal loss of battery charging. - Virtually Unbreakable
Uni-Solar modules are made with a unique non-glass construction which makes them virtually unbreakable. Where damage occurs to a Uni-Solar module, any holes can be repaired with neutral cure silastic. - No Glass
No glass is used to make these panels which in turn makes them the most vandal resistant panel on the market. - Anodised Aluminium Frame
This makes them ideal for all applications including marine, caravanning and Remote Area Power Systems (RAPS) systems. - High Temperature Modules
Ideal for the Australian summer climate as they do not loose efficiency as compared to the glass modules.
Uni-Solar: Portable *
*NOT MANUFACTURED ANYMORE - LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
UNI-SOLAR portable folding solar battery chargers convert sunlight directly into electricity using UNI-SOLAR Triple Junction Technology. The portable PV-modules are extremely rugged, and their unique design makes them easy to carry and deploy.
The UNI-PAC can be dropped, stepped on, packed and re-deployed while continuing to operate. Designed to meet requirements for durability, performance and reliability, the UNI-PAC features a strong, long-lasting front cover made of ETFE.
In addition to normal Uni-Solar properties these panels are:
- Lightweight & Flexible.
» Click for Larger View - Fold to Book Size.
Product Description:
Individual solar laminates within the UNI-PAC modules contain bypass diodes, making the UNI-PAC solar chargers tolerant of severe shadow or partial covering. The tough nylon fabric covering of the UNI-PAC allows the unit to be folded to a convenient book size, for easy storage and transport. The UNI-PAC 15 and UNI-PAC 30 are for 12V charg- ing only. The UNI-PAC 10 can be used for 12 or 24V charging. They have a 2-pin SAE-connector; and a 2 ft. fused battery cable is packed in their pouch.
Applications:
- Battery Charging
- Military Applications
- On Location Charging
- For Photographers
- Hikers - Hunters - Climbers
- Portable Power For Field Radios,Mobile Phones, or GPS
- Emergency Power
Model No. |
SPUP10 (when used @ 12v) |
SPUP10 (when used @ 24v) |
SPUP15 |
SPUP34 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Battery Charging |
|||
Rated Power (Watts) |
10W
|
10W
|
15W
|
34W
|
Rated Voltage (Vmpp) |
17.6V
|
35.2V
|
17.6V
|
17.6V
|
Rated Current (Impp) |
0.6A
|
0.3A
|
0.9A
|
1.9A
|
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) |
26.0V
|
51.9V
|
26.0V
|
25.2V
|
Short Circuit Current (Isc) |
0.7A
|
0.4A
|
1.1A
|
2.4A
|
SAE Connector |
No
|
No
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Dimensions Folded (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
10"x5"x2" (254x127x51mm)
|
10"x5"x2" (254x127x51mm)
|
9"x5.5"x3" (241x140x76m)
|
17"x7"x2" (432x179x51mm)
|
Dimensions Unfolded (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
46"x19.5" (1168x495mm)
|
46"x19.5" (1168x495mm)
|
47.5"x28" (1207x711mm)
|
58"x33.3" (1473x845mm)
|
Weight |
2.1 lbs (1.0KG)
|
2.1 lbs (1.0KG)
|
3.3 lbs (1.5KG)
|
4.7 lbs (2.1KG)
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
24V
|
12V
|
12V
|
Uni-Solar: Framed *
*NOT MANUFACTURED ANYMORE - LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
UNI-SOLAR framed modules are mounted on permanent, fixed position module racks that can be adjusted for optimum tilt, wind resistance and exposure to sunlight. These glass-free, light- weight, vandal resistant modules can be utilized in a wide variety of applications from fence charging to telecommunications.
The larger framed panels are often used as building blocks in photovoltaic arrays, which can be assembled to meet virtually any load from less than 100 watts to multi-megawatts.
Product Description:
The UNI-SOLAR modules are exceptionally durable. They are encapsulated in UV-stabilized polymers and framed with anodized aluminium. The polymer encapsulation includes EVA and the fluoropolymer ETFE. A Galvalume® steel backing plate provides stiffness.
Bypass diodes are connected across each cell, allowing the modules to produce power even when partially shaded (exception: US-5).
All US-modules have a potted pig tail with integral wiring. The cable is a 2-conductor 18 AWG with insulation rated at 158°F.
All other UNI-SOLAR US modules under 30 watts should not be connected in series.
Applications:
- Battery Charging
- Off-Grid Solar Home Systems
- Water Pumping Or Desalination Systems
- Telecommunications
- Gate Opening Or Fence Charging
- Bus Or Animal Shelters
Model No. |
SPUS5 |
SPUS11 |
|---|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Battery Charging |
|
Rated Power (Watts) |
5W
|
11W
|
Rated Voltage (Vmpp) |
16.5V
|
16.5V
|
Rated Current (Impp) |
0.3A
|
0.6A
|
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) |
23.8V
|
23.8V
|
Short Circuit Current (Isc) |
0.4A
|
0.8A
|
Cable length (ft. / mm) |
8ft (2438mm)
|
8ft (2438mm)
|
Dimensions (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
19.3"x8.1"x0.99" (491x206x25mm)
|
19.3"x15.1"x0.99" (491x383x25mm)
|
Weight |
2.5 lbs (1.1KG)
|
3.6 lbs (1.6KG)
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
12V
|
PowerFilm Solar
PowerFilm Solar panels are made using thin film solar panel technology and an industrial scale manufacturing process to produce low cost solar panels.
PowerFilm Rollable Solar Chargers
LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
Integrated Technology Package
Because PowerFilm integrated solar panels (thin film on plastic) are developed and manufactured with a proprietary roll process, by Iowa Thin Film Technologies, they are truly rollable unlike other thin film technologies that are only somewhat flexible. PowerFilm solar panels are all monolithically integrated which eliminates the need for damage-prone manual connections of individual solar cells. PowerFilm is made of silicon, a natural resource in abundant supply. PowerFilm is Cadmium Free, unlike some other solar technologies, and performs well in diverse environments, including hot sun, and does not suffer from wasted over-voltage.
Ultra Rollable
PowerFilm products are ultra rollable because they are manufactured on a roll up to 2400 feet long, using the proprietary roll-to-roll manufacturing technology platform of Iowa Thin Film Technologies. Iowa Thin Film Technologies is the first and only company in the world selling solar products manufactured on a true roll-to-roll process using a plastic substrate.
Durable
PowerFilm products are monolithically integrated which eliminates the need for damage-prone manual connections of individual solar cells. PowerFilm products are constructed using a durable polymer (plastic) substrate.
Easily Integrated
Several features enable easy integration: Paper thin low profile; Ultra flexibility allows conformity to shapes; Complete product design eliminates need for unsightly bolt-on frames.
Fabric Integrated
Integrated with a fabric backing for enhanced product functionality.
Lightweight
Constructed using a proprietary combination of thin and lightweight materials.
Environmentally Friendly Profile
Cadmium Free! (Other solar technologies such as CIS, CIGS, and CdTe contain cadmium which is considered an extremely toxic metal by the Department of Labour.) If comparing products, check to be sure they are Cadmium Free. Primary element used in PowerFilm is silicon, a natural resource in abundant supply.
Model No. |
R15-600 |
|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Battery Charging |
Rated Power (Watts) |
10W
|
Operating Voltage |
15.4V
|
Current |
0.6A
|
Dimensions Rolled Up (In. / mm) |
11.5"x4.25"x4.25" (292x108x108mm)
|
Dimensions Unrolled (In. / mm) |
38.3"x11.5" (972x292mm)
|
Weight |
1.02 lbs (0.46 kg)
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
*No Panels with Eyelets available
|
|
PowerFilm Foldable Solar Chargers
The most compact foldable solar charger in PowerFilm’s line of chargers built for versatility and flexibility in application.
LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
The 5W foldable solar charger provides you with the perfect starting point for solar charging small electronic devices directly using the DC power or by utilizing one of many available accessories. Unlike "CIGS" solar technology, there is no need for "sun-soaking" the panel for optimum performance after periods of storage - so PowerFilm solar provides critical power immediately.
Best uses:
- 12V battery charging
- Remote power - small scale HAM radio, Cellphone / Smartphone, MP3 players, GPS units
- Camp lighting
Model No. |
F15-300 |
|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Battery Charging |
Rated Power (Watts) |
5W
|
Operating Voltage |
15.4V
|
Current |
0.3A
|
Dimensions Folded (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
3.3"x10.5"x1.5" (84x267x38mm)
|
Dimensions Unfolded (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
24.4"x10.5" (620x267mm)
|
Weight |
0.45 lbs (0.20 kg)
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
The 10W foldable solar charger takes you to the next level in portable solar power generation, increasing capability and charging speed.
LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE 
The 10W foldable solar charger provides you with a step-up in power point for solar charging small to medium electronic devices directly using the DC power or by utilizing one of many available accessories. Unlike "CIGS" solar technology, there is no need for "sun-soaking" the panel for optimum performance after periods of storage - so PowerFilm solar provides critical power immediately.
Best uses:
- 12V battery charging
- Remote power - MP3 players, GPS, cellphone/smartphone, digital camera
- Camp lighting
- Small DC electric coolers
- Tablet PC
Model No. |
F15-600 |
|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Battery Charging |
Rated Power (Watts) |
10W
|
Operating Voltage |
15.4V
|
Current |
0.6A
|
Dimensions Folded (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
3.9"x10.5"x1.5" (99x267x38mm)
|
Dimensions Unfolded (In. / mm) (LxWxH) |
21"x22" (559x533mm)
|
Weight |
0.73 lbs (0.33kg)
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
*Operating Voltage and Current are typical values when tested under load at AM 1.5 lighting conditions. Power performance may vary due to temperature, light spectrum and other effects (minimum 90% rated when new).
SolarWorld
Sunmodule® - SW 25w mono/RB094, SW 45w poly/RC094 & SW 50 poly/RB184/AP
LIMITED STOCK AVAILABLE
With its Sunmodule® SW 25 mono/RB094, SW45 poly/RC094 & Sunmodule® SW 50 poly/RB184/AP SolarWorld presents a photovoltaic module ideally suitable for both off-grid and small on-grid applications. Highest quality standards are applied in the entire manufacturing process. SolarWorld’s in-depth expertise ensures best performance and highest energy yields over the entire life- span, even under challenging climatic conditions.
The Sunmodule® is particularly used in industrial applications such as powering off-grid telecom or monitoring systems. It also covers a wide range of rural electrification applications in remote areas, e.g. solar home systems, village power supply, street lighting and many more.
The compact dimensions of the Sunmodule® and the solid workmanship of its aluminium frame allow easy and flexible mounting. The design of the water repellent junction box makes wiring easy and secure. The junction box is equipped with two cable glands and two easy to wire spring-type clamps, so no special tools are needed. This simplifies installation and speeds up the installation process.
This top-quality product represents the ideal solution for every application.
Model No. |
SPSW25 |
SPSW45 |
SPSW50 |
|---|---|---|---|
Application |
Off-Grid / Battery Charging |
||
Rated Power (Watts) |
25W
|
45W
|
50W
|
Rated Voltage (Vmpp) |
16.1V
|
17.7V
|
17.0V
|
Rated Current (Impp) |
1.55A
|
2.55A
|
3.0A
|
Open Circuit Voltage (VOC) |
20.8V
|
22.0V
|
21.5V
|
Short Circuit Current (Isc) |
1.9A
|
2.73A
|
3.26A
|
No. of Cells |
36 in series
|
36 in series
|
72 in series parallel
|
Dimensions MM (LxWxH) |
460x535x34mm
|
575x680x34mm
|
863x538x34mm
|
Weight |
3.4KG
|
4.4KG
|
5.8KG
|
Nominal Battery System Voltage |
12V
|
12V
|
12V
|
MC4 Connectors and Pre-Assembled Leads
Second generation PV connector from Multi-Contact, which has rapidly become the most accepted connector in the world, designed to accept 4-6mm2 solar cable.
All Solar Panels are now generally coming with leads on the back with these types of Multi-Contact Connectors. Some smaller modules still have junction boxes, but any panel 80w and above will come with MC Connectors.
Features:
- Snap-in locking
- Locking by safety lock clip PV-SSH4 in accordance with NEC 2011, can be released only with tool
- Proven MC-Multi lam technology with high long-term stability
- Tried and tested plug connectors
- Available for assembly with cross-sections of 10mm2
- Also available as ready made leads
- Leads made to customer's specifications
Our pre-assembled leads are made in house, from high quality Australian Made TUV PV1-F approved SOLX PV1-F Cable fitted with genuine Multi-Contact male and female connectors.
Connector System |
Ø 4mm |
|---|---|
Rated Voltage |
1000V DC (IEC) 600V DC (UL) |
Rated Current |
30A (4mm2, 6mm2; 10AWG) |
Test Voltage |
6kV (50Hz, 1min.) |
Ambient Temperature Range |
-40°C...+90°C (IEC) -40°C...+75°C (UL) -40°C...+70°C (UL: 14AWG) |
Upper Limiting Temperature |
105°C (IEC) |
Degree of Protection: Mated / Unmated |
IP67 / IP2X |
Over voltage Category / Pollution Degree |
CATIII/2 |
Contact Resistance of Plug Connectors |
0.5mΩ |
Safety Class |
II |
Contact System |
MC Multi lam |
Type of Termination |
Crimping |
Contact Material |
Copper, tin plated |
Insulation Material |
PC/PA |
Locking System |
Snap-in |
Flame Class |
UL94-V0 |
Cable strain relief according to |
EN 50521:2008 |
| MC4 Connectors | |||
| SOCPV-KBT4/6II-MC4 |  |
||
| SOCPV-KST4/6II-MC4 | |
||
| MC4 Pre-Assembled Leads | |||
| SOCMC4L1M | |
||
| SOCMC4L2M | |
||
| SOCMC4L3M | |
||
| SOCMC4L4M | |
||
| SOCMC4L5M | |
||
| SOCMC4L6M | |
||
| SOCMC4L8M | |
||
| SOCMC4L10M | |
||