Flexible solar panels

huskydog replied on 13/03/2017 13:13

Posted on 13/03/2017 13:13

Are they as reliable as the "solid" type?, just looking at weight saving and the flexible ones are quite a weight saving.........your thoughts ! 

SteveDSD replied on 13/03/2017 13:54

Posted on 13/03/2017 13:54

Yes, they're pretty reliable if permanently installed on a flat surface and not walked on.

Although they're "flexible" they don't bend or flex very much without breaking and so always follow the instructions that come with them of how much of a flex they can handle.  (Don't use them as a "wobble-board" like a YouTube guy did as they do break)

 

Vicmallows replied on 13/03/2017 21:16

Posted on 13/03/2017 21:16

In the boating world many flexible panels that have been in use for 10+ years  have now deteriorated to the point of being useless, whereas rigid glass panels of similar age are still working well.  There is also the factor that rigid panels generally tend to have a higher output for a given area.

Of course PV technology is advancing all the time, so past experience is not necessarily a guide to future performance.

Boff replied on 13/03/2017 22:43

Posted on 13/03/2017 22:43

If you google them there seems to be reports of problems with them. Closer to home Cyberyacht has had problems with one. It's a real shame because the weight saving would make them a no brainer for me otherwise. 

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