Solar panel kit

[Cal-29]

I’d like to attach 2 panels (200 watts total would be great) to the back railing of my 29’ boat. Is there an all inclusive kit or at least a company or two anyone feels confident in? So many companies and options online. I’d like to be able to fold them down when not in use. I’ll be replacing my batteries soon with agm batteries and am curious do I need any special battery for solar option or just the panels, and an inverter?

[thudbranch]

If you have a Dodger or Bimini, I would seriously consider semi-flexible panels that simple lay on top of the canvas. You can tie them on with small cord and make them removable in case of a storm. Use a connector so the can be unplugged from the outside of the boat, leaving most of the wiring. The semiflexible panels come with grommets in them that allow you to thread your small cord thru them to hold the panel(s) to the top of what ever canvas.

Also us a MPPT controller for sure. With a MPPT controller, it is not critical if the panels are partially shaded or at a narrow angle to the sunlight. The MPPT controllers will step up the voltage to a charging voltage automatically, even when the panel is partially blocked and not putting out enough voltage to charge your batteries. A 100 watt panel with a MPPT controller puts out 6amps in bright sunlight on my boat for 6-8 hours in the summer here in the Puget Sound- the PNW. The current when the panel is partially shaded still is at 3-4 amps at 14-16 volts for charging. In the morning or evenings, it still charges at 2-3 amps even with sun near the horizon.