If you have ever been left high and dry with no power while at the campground then this is the blog for you. We are excited about this product because getting off the grid is what we live for. We also want to be as comfortable as possible while doing so and having power when you need it is a big part of that. Let Bougerv solar panels create that much-needed power for you.
In this article, we are going to be talking about a new product from BougeRV that can ensure that you have just that. It is their new Bifacial 200-watt solar panel. What is a bifacial solar panel you ask, we will answer that question and a few more. We will also test it out and let you know if this could be the power source you have been looking for.
What is a bifacial solar panel?
A bifacial solar panel collects the sun’s rays from both the top and the bottom, by absorbing light that is reflected off the surface below the panel. A traditional monofacial solar panel only uses one side of the panel to gather light for power absorption.
To learn all about solar panels, their uses, and how many you might need please read our article on the Best Solar Panel Setups.
BougeRV Bifacial 200 Watt Solar Panels
Harness the sun power more efficiently with BougeRV’s innovative bifacial solar panels. Designed to absorb sunlight from both sides, these bifacial solar panels offer increased electricity and durability for off-grid applications.
Who is BougeRV?
BougeRV is located in Rowland Heights, California, United States.
BougeRV is committed to creating a sustainable future for human beings by offering one-stop solar product solutions Solar panels, solar accessories, and power stations. They can meet the needs of your home solar system and RV/trailer off-grid system, Letting you enjoy glamping anytime, anywhere.
Our experience with Bougerv solar panels
First Impression
Upon arrival, the first thing I noticed was how well these panels were packed. They arrived quickly with corner and side cushions surrounding the panel inside of the shipping packaging.
The panel was slightly heavier than anticipated but easy enough to move around. We are still debating if we will install it on the roof of the RV or build a movable tilt mount to get the best angle depending on location.
If you are looking to skip the DIY activity, you can always purchase the BougeRV 58in Adjustable Solar Panel Tilt Mount Brackets with Foldable Tilt Legs.
Preparation
As we all know, the sun is what makes the solar panel world go around.
When we travel out west the sun will be the least of our worries. Unfortunately, we spend a lot of our time under cloudier or semi-tree-covered conditions.
For this testing experiment, we will be using the BougeRV solar panel in full sun (hopefully) and also on a cloudy day to better understand its sun-gathering capabilities.
Also, since we have yet to decide if we are going to mount it on top of our RV we will be testing it flat and at a few different angles.
The BougeRV 200-watt bifacial solar panel will be charging our power station. This power station will be able to tell us the input power results and the time it will take to fully charge.
My expectations
I have used other solar panels in the past so the bar is being set pretty low. I understand that the conditions need to be perfect for any solar panel to reach its full output potential.
Our goal is to use the solar panel to charge our power station during the day and then use the power station at night to run a few small devices.
Getting off-grid as much as possible is what we love to do so hopefully we will be pleasantly surprised with the results.
Actual Results
Day 1 cloudy and overcast (December)
On our first day of testing the solar panel’s performance was very hit or miss. Trying between the clouds and the angle of the sun. For the most part, the input was 60 to 70 watts, not what we were hoping for. It would take our power station 10-12 hours at that rate to fully charge.
I was not completely disappointed since it is December here and the sun does not come directly over top. The sun angle with the added cloud cover was not the perfect condition to get peak performance.
Day 2 partly sunny (December)
Our second day of testing produced much better results, I could live with. Seeing input levels of between 125 to 160 watts was a pleasant surprise. We could top off our power station in around 6 or 7 hours.
I would still probably invest in a second panel knowing we will not always have perfect conditions. We may also need to run a few small devices throughout the day which will detract from the charging.
Consider this
Tips For Maximizing Your Solar Panels Performance
- Choose High-Efficiency Panels. As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. This is especially true when it comes to solar panel performance.
- Ensure Proper Angle or Tilt. Make sure your panels are angled directly towards the sun at all times to get the most out of the sun’s power source.
- Keep The Panels Clean. An occasional wiping of your panels to remove dust and debris is needed to keep them working at peak levels.
- Minimize Shading. We don’t always have control over Mother Nature or where we get to park our RVs but keep this in mind when using a solar panel.
- Use Mirrors or reflective surfaces. The sun’s rays are not just a one-time use. You can you reflective surfaces to bounce the rays around and use over and over. This is especially true with a bifacial solar panel that draws energy from both the front and the back.
- Correct wiring. make sure you are using the right size wiring for your solar system.
Remember, a 200W solar panel generates around 10 to 12 amps per hour. There is on average 6 or 7 hours of quality sunlight to supply your panel each day.
This provides about 60 to 70 amp hours in a day if you are lucky.
For example, if you are using a 12-volt 225Ah battery it will take 3 days to charge at the above rate. So, more than one panel is most likely needed depending on your power consumption needs.
Here is a Complete Solar Panel Guide, so you know exactly what to look for when shopping for a solar setup
Conclusion
I was unable to perform this test to my liking given the weather conditions were cloudy in the middle of December. With that being said I would give the BougeRV solar panel a favorable review so far but will follow up in a few months with a more in-depth review of their product.
The sun angle during our test was at an extreme just above the horizon and the sky was partially cloudy. I Understand, that we will not always have the perfect sun exposure and this was taken into account. As stated earlier, I will probably invest in a second panel for quick charging ability.
- Price is consistent or better than comparable products
- Shipping was quick and the product was safely packed
- Sturdy frame construction on panel
- Quality wiring connectors to your power storage choice
- Easily connects to battery or power station
BougeRV 200-watt bifacial solar panel
