Solar panels for Antarctic expedition

I am starting to make enquiries about solar power for a proposed antactic expedition in 2009/10. I would be after lightweight panels that could be put over tents or the sledges to charge sat phones etc.

Please let me know if there is anything you can offer that may be suitable.

Yours, Chris

Hi Chris,

 

Unisolar used to make some excellent flexible panels that were ideal for strapping to tents and sledges, and performed very well. Unfortunately they are out of production at the moment, but if they come back into production in the next few months (as I understand Unisolar are planning) they would be the best ones to go for.

 

There is a similar flexible solar panel from Powerfilm, although a friend who used one in the Antarctic last year was a little disappointed with the output.

 

I would however recommend the Spectra solar panels as a good solution. Although not flexible, they are very slim, have grommet holes in the corner so are easily lashed to sledges and tents, and are very lightweight (and good value). We sell 5W, 10W, and 20W models - see http://midsummerenergy.co.uk/buy_solar_panels/spectra_marine_solar_panels.html for details.

 

Best wishes for the expedition anyway!  As it happens I'm off to Antarctica myself for a couple of months shortly - it's a fantastic place to spend some time!

Solar panels for kayaking expedition

I need a panel capable of charging video camera batteries, mobile, and laptop for a three month solo kayaking expedition. What sort, how many, what price?? Thanks.

Sounds like a fun expedition! It would be worth you working out fairly carefully how much power you need. If you use the solar panel calculator on my site ( http://midsummerenergy.co.uk/solar_panel_information/solar_panel_calculator.html) you can enter the power each item consumes, and how many hours you need it for each day. A laptop for example might be something like 100W, but only for 1 hour a day on average.

That will give you a good idea of how big a solar panel you need. I would guess though that you might be looking at something like a 20W panel. The Spectra range are pretty good ( http://midsummerenergy.co.uk/buy_solar_panels/spectra_marine_solar_panels.html), although I would perhaps go for 2 x 10W (£92 each) rather than a 20W as they would pack away smaller. They are light and reliable though, so would make a good choice. If you find your needs aren't that great, you might be able to go down to 2 x 5W panels instead.

I can also get in some Unisolar folding panels which pack very small and are designed for expedition use. They are considerably more expensive though! See http://www.uni-solar.com/ , then follow links to 'Standard products' and then 'Portable modules'.

Whichever you go for, you would also need a battery and regulator. The Sunguard regulator (£26) is small, waterproof, and ideal for panels up to 50W. A small sealed lead acid battery will be the heaviest part of your kit.

Hope that helps.