Flexible vs Rigid Solar Panels: The Complete Technical Comparison

No BS, just the relevant information, this is the way i like a KZbin video!

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you liked it!

[@paulnese1090]

Jesse, I'm watching your video several years after you made it. It's good to have a speaker who is so well technically informed. I learned some you points. I dabble a little in solar with some inexpensive Harbor Frieght solar panels and recycled auto lead acid batteries. Why? Recyclyed auto lead acid batteries?? Like $2O to $40 each. I defined my requirements were not for Off-Grid power, but for short term Emergency/Survival Power. I did a cost/benefit calculations on how often I was likely to draw power and for how many days for each occurence. Rule of thumb one can discharge a standard auto lead acid battery to 50%. Drawing down further each time will incrementally damage and incrementally shorten a standard lead acid battery. The more expensive Deep Cycle Lead Acid, and even more expensive Lithium Ion batteries advertise up to 80% discharge. However, why then do their manufacturers highly recommend you only discarge these deep cycle lead acid & Lithium Ion to ONLY 50%. Again, for my objective for limited short term occational use I chose to go cheep, wirh auto recycled lead acid auto batteries. I've used auto recycled lead acid auto batteries in my automobiles and have noticed no failures or reduction in battery life. I'd like your comment and review. - Paul

[@PeaceChanel]

Peace... Shalom.. Salam.. Namaste...Thank You for All your efforts to support Solar Power 🙏🏻 😊 🌈 ✌ 🌷 ☮️ ❤️

[@SolarSolution]

Thank you for your positivity, and I wish you all the best as well!

[@Tamilarivu782]

Hey Jesse...You are awesome with providing right things for a first time buyer

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you think so Bruce!

[@Elbereth42]

Great tips and information. Laid out the data I was looking for without a bunch of nonsense like so many other videos.

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks Todd, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Yep I'm trying to avoid any kind of fluff in my content, so it's good to hear it is working out that way.

[@ninehundreddollarluxuryyac5958]

Thanks for the helpful summary. It is clear that you prepared before shooting the video, which made it much easier to watch and more informative.

[@DormantIdeasNIQ]

EXCELLENT: so much, so concise, minimum time... and all pertaining.

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@PrimalOutdoors]

Always super informative Jason

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks Jason!

[@Reman1975]

Useful info. Well organised and presented......... The "Like" was a no brainer. I'm now going to have to watch a few more of this guys videos to see if this is a channel I NEED to subscribe to. (I'm currently trying to prune the 500ish channels I've subscribed to over the last 16 years in an attempt to remove ones that I'm no longer interested in and long abandoned channels, so at the minute I'm trying to be very picky about adding subs......... But seeing informative videos like this makes that hard.😣).

[@SolarSolution]

Haha thanks for your message @Reman1975. 500 channels WOW!

[@guymaninu]

Thanks for the concise information! Im making a decision to live in my SUV in southern California, a few hours north of Los Angeles. I absolutely need an alternative power-bank and the proper means to charge it. Versatility and adaptability will likely serve me best, but cost is what will hold me back. And this “project” is not something I have been able to prepare for- it sounds better that I made a choice instead of not having any other reasonable options for permanent living space, like a bedroom in a house. It’s so expensive, and I’m on fixed income and I can’t stand the idea of living check to check and becoming whatever that makes someone turn into. Summer is here, in the high desert, and temps are regularly 100 to 110 de degrees Fahrenheit. I must get a power system in my vehicle with an external (ideally 12V DC powered) air conditioner of some type. Im a military veteran so I understand that diesel vehicles are designed for continuous operation. Ive always heard that unleaded gasoline vehicles “don’t like” running for hours on end without actually driving/traveling. And gas would be very costly to do that. I hope i dont melt in the desert before i can put something really good and reliable together. I hope that this period will only last 2-5 years maximum. So whatever I get, i need it to last me 5 years to be safe. Im totally open to input and suggestions to consider before i start to purchase any of this equipment. Thanks

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks for sharing! If I would be in your shoes/flipflops, I would probably start off with mounting as much PV on my roof as reasonably possible, have a heavy duty alternator/portable generator as backup during overcast, and match your energy storage AND consumption to this setup. Good luck! Jesse

[@guymaninu]

@@SolarSolution Thank you! You just validated a lot for me. I was not sure if my plans were the best approach, but you literally suggested my own plans to me, which means a lot to me given your expertise. Well, I know I need the service you offer, and it's the comprehensive one. In short, I'm sold and I can't wait to use your service, in the next few days, I hope. Thanks again.

[@martinsrc8752]

First video from this channel and subscribed. Thanks for great info:)

[@SolarSolution]

Welcome aboard Martin!

[@billderinbaja3883]

Very well done comparison. You asked for ideas for other topics... I am in the process of selecting components for my 5th wheel RV solar system. One component I am having a difficult time finding good info on: Mounting hardware for rigid panels... tilt or no tilt? (sources) Best mounting frame anchoring method without penetrating the roof membrane? Best method of wire management, UV protection of wire and MPPT controllers on RV roof? Best method of installing junction box and roof penetration, sealing/flashing of roof penetration?

[@SolarSolution]

Thank you for you feedback Billder. You have some great topics there, I will add them to my list of new content and share it with you once I upload it. Thanks! Jesse.

[@SoundzAlive1]

The mounting tape from 3M called VHB is extremely strong and RV users are mounting the rigid panels on their roofs with great success in strength and staying power.

[@norbertkaussen1516]

Excellent professional presentation, and very informative.

[@SolarSolution]

Thank you for your feedback Norbert, that is great to hear. All the best, Jesse.

[@bjwnet397]

are portable/folding solar panels effectively the same as flexible panels, meaning lower life span and easily heats up etc.

[@seanbrossard8178]

I want to install on a airstream trailer so curved roof and only 2/3rds panels will be in the sun with no environmental shading. I can add 3 sets of panels I have 68" in width and 22' in length plus a 100watt standalone I plan on a 15x18' fold out on truck. Original I wanted solid see-through panels and about 3"" of air gap as airstream are solar ovens. I am removing the insulation and doing spray foam and double glazing the windows. But the ease of Installation and lack of penetration in the roof with flexible panel are better. And price is a issue but 5 to 10 year life expectancy is a buzz kill. I have seen both on airstreams. I would like the shade from the solid but not the weight and adding all that weight so high on my trailer and it is getting a 4" lift (boondocking). So I am at a draw leaning towards flexible. Or maybe flexible on sides and solid running center line. I am going to run a mini split 38sheer HVAC (900w) system with.

[@stephanczapiewski3078]

so if you attached a flexible solar panel to a bimini, for example by zips, and the cut out the area directly under the panel in order to prevent trapping the heat and allowing free air circulation, would the underside of the panel represent a safety threat by allowing it to be touched

[@bjwnet397]

are portable/folding solar panels effectively the same as flexible panels, meaning lower life span and easily heats up etc. and does ETFE overcome flexible panel issues?

[@deemybutt]

Such a clear, concise, unbias well presented piece. Nice work

[@SolarSolution]

Thank you Nadeem, that is a great compliment. I am happy you found the video useful. All the best, Jesse.

[@bernicechan9834]

Have you consider to use the graphing oxide to do a flexible solar panel since graphemes oxide is a good conductor of electro magnetic wave.

[@garykort]

Thank you for the best information concerning solar panels. I have subscribed and eagerly await your next films.

[@SolarSolution]

Welcome aboard Gary!

[@gregolson9233]

Thanks for the very informative video, I have seen several of your other videos as well. I subscribed so I can see more. Thanks again.

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks for the sub!

[@richardnwilson]

Great video thank you! All your videos are clear concise and very informative! I wonder if you could share what type of adhesive you would recommend to glue a flexible solar panel to a painted Fiberglass Deck. Or alternatively if there's a better way to mount a flexible panel to a deck to allow air circulation under the panel. Thank you.

[@SolarSolution]

Hello Richard, thanks for your compliment! It is good to hear that the videos turned out the way I intended. For personal advice you can contact me through www.solarsolution.co/contact

[@valivalentin8963]

@@SolarSolution "Oops! That page can’t be found."

[@MWDAdventures]

alot of camper trailers use flexible panels should they only be using ridge due to durability and heating up like you mentioned?

[@SolarSolution]

Hi Matt. It really depends on the system performance requirements of the camper trailer owner: Maximum Weight Reduction - Vs. - Max Service life - Vs. - Max Surface Power Output - Vs. - Temperature Sensitivity - Et cetera. Or in other words: What is the priority?

[@karinblackstone5047]

Interested in installing solar on a Park Models. Solar companies will not sell these panels to owners of a park model because they rent the lot space. Any suggestions ?

[@SolarSolution]

Hi Karin, thanks for your message. As for your question, I would like to draw your attention to the pinned comment at the top of this section. All the best, Jesse.

[@nelsonmendez2569]

Thank you for your input. This was very helpful, I've made my Decision Thumps up

[@SolarSolution]

Thank you Nelson, you are very welcome. I am curious which type of panel you decided to go for. All the best, Jesse.

[@ELCEV]

What is your opinion on CIGS flexible panels?

[@SolarSolution]

Hello Mr. Louis, thanks for your question. I understand you have already purchased the CIGS's. You question is somewhat broad; Could you further specify your question? Thanks, Jesse.

[@ELCEV]

@@SolarSolution Jesse, because of the large size of these panels in the low output I still have my reservations. I was just wondering if you had any hands on experience with this technology. I will update you with my progress over the next month or two, and give you my opinion. I value your knowledge I look forward to your future videos even after my system is up and running.

[@ProductsChannel]

May I pls show this video to my solar class? I just subscribed to your channel.

[@ianjamiesonmusic]

Your videos are great, thanks

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you like them!

[@cece3194]

Hello. Good information and well organized. Very much to the point and no fluff. That's good. I wonder which panel is rain resistant, probably the rigid? I also live in the Pacific NW in USA. How well does solar even work up here? I'm in Washington state on the west side of the mountains.

[@SolarSolution]

I am glad to hear your appreciate the 'no fluff' aspect of the videos, thanks for letting me know. As for using solar panels in Washing State: You might appreciate researching 'Peak Sun Hours' and the yearly yield you can expect for your area. There are several US websites with good statistical data on this topic. Good luck! Jesse.

[@seanbrossard8178]

Works great in the 2 weeks of Summer you get. You should check avg sun solar hours days in your area and off peak winter solar hours avg. To size your system. And there are lower light level photo cells available. And if you have an average 6mph wind a backup windmill for storms would be advised and they are cheap now make sure it is marine grade.

[@psychicmind9]

Thank you for the information. Im interested with folding solar panel using ETFE.. Do you mind to share anything about this?

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks for your message, you are welcome. Great username by the way! Sorry, I do not have a separate video on folding ETFE panels, though they are almost identical to regular flexible ETFE panels. All the best, Jesse.

[@markwright196]

I see flexible panels with eva-pet. silicon pet etfe? would the pet still be an issue ontop of the silicon? (milky effect?)

[@markwright196]

or is the pet issue a oxidative issue?

[@JohnboyCollins]

Is it possible to achieve minimal bending of rigid panels? Say bending along a 10 foot radius? Any intermediate solutions?

[@SolarSolution]

Haha you have got me curious now John. What are you trying to accomplish? Every problem has it's solution.

[@JohnboyCollins]

@@SolarSolution thinking about trying to develop a solar SIP panel for dome houses.

[@SolarSolution]

That sounds interesting John! Thanks for sharing. There are several options for this situation, the 'best' solution depends on where your priorities lie: weight, performance, esthetics, investment, etc.

[@JohnboyCollins]

@@SolarSolution thanks! On further consideration it's definitely better to support standard rigid panels. Aesthetics isn't worth the huge maintenance cost. You can find standard panels stupidly cheap nowadays.

[@peterservon9370]

Very well presented.

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you liked it!

[@williamwiese9963]

In your opinion, what is the best flexible 100 watt panel?? I'm currently building a small system with mppt charge controller with lead acid, but eventually I want to install everything on a catamaran or monohull

[@dennisevans9306]

Another great job!

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks Dennis, it is good to hear from you. All the best, Jesse.

[@PacoOtis]

Excellent presentation!

[@omkumhar8017]

Best explained!

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you think so Kumhar!

[@allthesevens]

Crisp video. Thanks 👍

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you liked it!

[@big6pun07]

Very good presentation thank you so much

[@SolarSolution]

You are most welcome

[@relaxationhub123]

Very useful information. Thank you!

[@SolarSolution]

You are welcome!

[@MarcMallary]

I need a lightweight solar charger for bicycle touring. My 24 watt rigid panel is around 2.5 pounds and I want to save as much weight as possible.

[@SolarSolution]

Hello Marc, thank you for your message. Sounds like you have an exciting adventure coming up! Most charge controllers will have their total weight indicated in the specification sheet, it just takes a bit of time to compare them. Good luck and all the best, Jesse

[@davidsvoboda7307]

Good objective opinions appreciate it

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks for watching!

[@fightforjustice3744]

Very well presented...thank you

[@SolarSolution]

You are welcome!

[@joeowens8923]

Thank you for information give me everything I needed to make my decision . Lol specially sense had no clue starting out

[@SolarSolution]

You are welcome Joe, thanks for your message. It is good to hear the video helped your in your decision making process. Good luck and enjoy shopping! Jesse.

[@Nxtbxred]

Excellent informative video. Thanks.

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jaybud1607]

Jesse, do you have a guide on evaluating quality of lead acid batteries? iI have learned over the years that cost is not always associated with quality. You are clear, concise, and always informative. Keep up the great work and thank you.

[@SolarSolution]

Hello Jay, thanks for your message. Such a great compliment to receive, thank you! It's good to hear you find the videos useful. As for your question, here are two options for you: 1. The video on battery selection: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpmkg3Spp5Z-jpo 2. The playlist with all video's related to battery topics: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJa5kp6Andyen9U It would be great to hear whether this answers your question. Enjoy and all the best, Jesse.

[@seanbrossard8178]

Jesse you now can get lithium ion battery for less than wet cells. But with some maintenance and care wet cells will last longer. If you do go with wet cells there is a cell cap with a adjustable float level that allows outgassing for about $3 a cap that will greatly reduce your maintenance just tap every cell cap see the level indicator is working and check infeed bottle for liquid. Then there is a flush that needs to be done about every 5 years and a sentiment check ever year. There are chargers that put a high frequency high charge into the batteries to shake the calcium off the plates. Is the sediment touches the plates at the same time it damages the cell. That why important to check for it and flush the cell. Most batteries are not maintenance friendly and very heavy and take up at least 2x the room.

[@denamccasland3428]

Excellent info

[@SolarSolution]

Glad it was helpful Dena!

[@usablellc6735]

Your stuff is great!

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks! That is good to hear. Enjoy the channel, Jesse.

[@patcummins6036]

Great info. Thank you.

[@SolarSolution]

Glad it was helpful!

[@danielhartwig6333]

Thank You 😊

[@SolarSolution]

Welcome!

[@marzzb3784]

Most affordable complete solar system to start on very low budget?

[@SolarSolution]

An excellent suggestion for a new video, thank you!

[@Richard-eh8ib]

A overview of CIGS type panels and their advantages would be most welcome.

[@SolarSolution]

Thank you for your feedback Richard. I have two videos in mind which [at least I think] as a combination might answer your question. Please have a look at them and let me know in case your question remains unanswered. Thanks! Buying guide for solar panels: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inOad5mdqLuhZ8k Technical details on flexible panels: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2LTdKCOgqx0rdU

[@jorgemalave6970]

Excellent Ty

[@SolarSolution]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@drbdom]

Very Helpfull!!

[@SolarSolution]

Glad it was helpful!

[@RedBatteryHead]

Great info .thx

[@SolarSolution]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dubTuube]

Great content! One question though, what kind of button down shirt is that? Ha. I must know

[@SolarSolution]

Hi Austin! Glad you liked the content. Haha if I would remember I would tell you, sorry. I am pretty sure it was in a store in Montreal, Canada, I just can't remember which one. All the best, Jesse.

[@YuriyDtv]

is anybody els getting that arnold vibe. get to the choppper

[@robertpaulis439]

Doo it...doo it

[@stevengross4113]

thanks very helpful

[@belspace]

Very useful

[@SolarSolution]

Glad to hear that!

[@SolarSolution]

Course trailer and Coupon Code: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHzEkKx4ntpqaJo

[@قوتالقلوب-ذ7م]

This is what I meant. Flexibility and simplisity

[@SolarSolution]

Thanks for you message, I am glad you enjoyed the video. All the best, Jesse.

[@قوتالقلوب-ذ7م]

@@SolarSolution I'm looking for the best option to save my energy specially now. You know it's become so hard to pay you bils with the difficulty we going through with Corona virus. I hope I will find soon what I'm looking for . I enjoyed the video . Thank you so much 🌹

[@SolarSolution]

You are welcome! Good luck with your project. Jesse.

[@bernicechan9834]

Graphene oxide

[@aldob5681]

keygee is kilogram

[@reubenj.cogburn8546]

Let me make this very easy for you. Flexible panels will not last and are not durable. Rigid panels have a track record and are designed to last for decades. Make your own choice

[@SolarSolution]

Hello Reuben, thank you for sharing your perspective and your contribution to the channel. I am sure this will proof valuable for the other viewers as well. All the best, Jesse

[@fidelcatsro6948]

arnold schwarzenegger entered the chat...

[@SolarSolution]

Haha yep you are not the first one to link the accents Fidel :)

[@fidelcatsro6948]

@@SolarSolution I' ll be back!! 👍👍👍

[@SolarSolution]

@@fidelcatsro6948 Get to tha choppa!

[@briancc2100]

Get to the choppa

[@SolarSolution]

Haha yep I've heard that one before :)

[@ibezag0]

The flexible panels Seems to fail fairly Quickly in comparison to rigid panels……and I mean considerably less time

[@SolarSolution]

You are correct! Some of the high-end flex panels do get longer life spans, though definitely not as long as the rigid panels.

[@retn1122]

What movie