When you’re camping off-grid, working remotely, or reducing reliance on mains power, solar panels provide a reliable way to keep your batteries charged and your gear running.
A solar panel converts sunlight into usable electricity. When sunlight hits the solar cells, they generate DC power that charges your batteries or runs devices. With the right setup, solar panels let you harness free, renewable energy anywhere — perfect for camping, overlanding, boating, or remote worksites.
HOW DO SOLAR PANELS WORK?
Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity. Each panel is made up of small cells that react to sunlight to create power. That power then flows through a solar regulator, which controls the voltage so your battery charges safely.
REDARC solar panels integrate seamlessly with REDARC’s BCDC chargers and battery management systems, ensuring your batteries are charged efficiently and safely — even during long stays off-grid.
WHY DO YOU NEED VEHICLE SOLAR PANELS?
- Stay off-grid longer - Power fridges, lights, and devices without worrying about running flat.
- Save fuel & noise - Unlike generators, solar is quiet, clean, and free — no fuel, no fumes.
- Protect your batteries - Solar maintains and tops up your batteries, extending their lifespan.
- Environmentally friendly - Solar energy is renewable, sustainable, and reduces your carbon footprint.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SOLAR PANELS USED IN VEHICLE SETUPS?
Solar panels are versatile and able to be used across a wide range of setups. There are several different types of solar panels that are generally used in camping setups.
- Fixed panels: These are typically permanently attached to the roof of RVs, vans, motorhomes or vehicles. They’re a set and forget solar solution that runs whether you’re on the road or parked at camp.
- Portable folding panels: Folding panels can be set up and moved around camp to get the most sun. These panels typically fold in half to be a more compact solution suitable for RVs, vans or motorhomes that have space to store them while travelling.
- Solar blankets: The most portable solar solution, solar blankets fold down to be quite compact and when unfolded can be placed on the ground at camp, hung from awnings or spread on the top of vans. Solar blankets are perfect for people with limited space in vehicle setups or vans.
WHY CHOOSE REDARC SOLAR PANELS?
REDARC’s solar panels are built for real-world conditions, delivering reliable power in heat, dust, and moisture.
Choose from fixed panels for permanent roof mounts, portable folding panels for flexible setups, or compact solar blankets for maximum portability. With high-efficiency monocrystalline cells, rugged construction, and seamless integration with REDARC chargers, they’re designed to perform anywhere.
If you're not sure what solar panels you need for your vehicle, check out our article on choosing the right solar system for you.
A vehicle solar panel is an essential part of any reliable off-grid power system. It provides independence, extends your time in remote locations, and keeps your batteries healthy — all while being quiet, clean, and sustainable.
To Learn more, explore REDARC’s solar range and solar accessories or speak with your local REDARC retailer.
