Anyone using portable solar in the woods?

[lightcs1776]

I'm looking at purchasing a 150 watt portable solar setup to keep baterries charged while camping at state campgrounds. The sites are always partial sun due to the heavily wooded areas. There is plenty of light, but not a lot of direct sunlight. Does anyone use a portable solar setup in this type of condition that can tell me how effective it is? I'm only running LED lights, water pump, fridge on propane, and furnace on propane. There may be a rare occasion when the built in radio is used. I'd like to avoid using a generator if possible as we really don't need A/C in my area.

Thanks for any input.

[Seann45]

I started with a portable system and MIGHT add one again for the same reason as you. Here is what I found from previous experience.
1) have them staked to the ground.. a strong wind gust can knock them over or blow them to the end of the power cable damaging them

2) Lock them down or they will grow legs and disappear.


Dont forget the charge controller.. it is not an option.

Those cheap 3-4 packs of panels from Harbor Freight are just that CHEAP. But a good leaning tool.

[max2bob]

I had one for my pop up and transferred it to the new starcraft. I have a morning star controller (4 amp) mounted directly to the battery box and 30 feet of solar cable for the panel. I have the mc4 connectors for quick connect-disconnect. sometimes I am lucky and just have to move the panel a few times and some days I can move it quite a bit for optimal exposure. I have this trailer set up this way expressly for the portability because of where I am parked and all the trees shading the camper. it keeps me charged up so I am happy with the set up.

[lightcs1776]

Thanks, Seann45 and Max2bob. I am looking at the 150 Watt unit from Overland Solar. If it can keep two group 27 batteries charged while positioned under some tall trees, I will be quite satisfied.