10 Best Solar Panels Australia 2020: Expert-Chosen Top Performers
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Looking for the best solar panels in Australia for 2020? The market is full of options, from portable foldable panels to high-efficiency monocrystalline models. We’ve spent hours testing and comparing panels to bring you this expert roundup. Whether you’re powering an RV, camping off-grid, or just want to save on electricity, our list will guide you to the perfect choice.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Solar Panels Australia 2020 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. EBL Solar Panel 100W Portable Solar Panel for 240/300/500/1000/1500/2000 Power Station, with Adj…
The EBL Solar Panel 100W is a top pick for its universal compatibility and solid performance. It works with many power stations, making it a versatile choice. The high efficiency and portable design are perfect for outdoor use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Upgraded universal compatibility with most generators
- ✓ Smart IC and 23% high energy conversion efficiency
- ✓ Portable kickstands for adjustable 45° mounting
- ✓ Foldable design for easy transport and storage
Why We Recommend It
We love this panel for its reliability and ease of use. It’s a great all-rounder that delivers consistent power. The multiple connectors add to its versatility.
Best For
This panel is best for campers, RV owners, and anyone needing a portable solar charger for various power stations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High efficiency of 23% for fast charging
- Wide compatibility with many power station brands
- Portable with foldable design and kickstands
- Includes multiple connectors for different devices
Cons:
- Can be slightly bulky compared to ultra-light models
- Kickstands may not be as durable in extreme weather
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Not only has it saved us money on our electricity bill, but it has also provided a reliable power source during outages. The panels are thin and easy to store, and they conveniently fold in half for easy transport. The set comes with multiple connectors, making it easy to charge a variety of devices.”
Customer Review: “This thing rules. You won’t find a better bargain for what you get. Absolute necessity while camping. Charges up a generator at a very respectable speed in normal sun conditions. The generator from the same company rips also. For the money, the combo is unmatched.”
2. Renogy 100 Watt Solar Panel, N-Type 100W Portable Solar Panels w/Kickstands, Foladable 25% High E…
The Renogy 100W solar panel stands out with its industry-leading 25% efficiency. It’s lightweight and packs a punch with multiple USB ports. The magnetic handle design makes it super portable for adventures.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 25% efficiency with 16BB N-Type cell technology
- ✓ Lightweight at 7.28 lbs with magnetic handle design
- ✓ Charges 3 devices via USB-C PD and USB-A ports
- ✓ Foldable and compact for easy packing
Why We Recommend It
This panel is our editor’s choice for its cutting-edge efficiency and smart design. It’s perfect for tech-savvy users who need fast charging on the go.
Best For
Ideal for hikers, digital nomads, and anyone charging smartphones, tablets, and laptops outdoors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional 25% conversion efficiency
- Very lightweight and portable with innovative handles
- Multiple output ports for simultaneous charging
- Durable build for outdoor use
Cons:
- Higher price point due to advanced technology
- No carrying case included, unlike some models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought two, 100 watt panels. Why not just buy the single 200w? I wanted higher voltage. I’m running in series to achieve higher voltage for lower line losses. AND, I have an Anker C-1000 power station that clips to 10a at lower voltage.”
Customer Review: “The panel is great. But, is it for you? That depends. It is well built, reasonably small and portable, it has magnets in the handles, so it snaps shut. There is no carrying case like with the large glass Renogy panels, but it doesn’t need one.”
3. N-Type 16BB 100 Watt Solar Panel, Compact 12V 100W Solar Panel, 25% High Efficiency Monocrystalli…
The Callsun N-Type 100W panel offers high efficiency at a budget-friendly price. It’s compact and easy to install, making it a smart choice for DIY solar projects. The 16 busbars enhance performance noticeably.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ N-Type technology with up to 25% efficiency
- ✓ 16 busbars for improved light absorption and reduced hot spots
- ✓ Compact size, 15% smaller than traditional panels
- ✓ Easy installation for rooftops or off-grid setups
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on efficiency. It delivers premium features without the high cost.
Best For
Great for homeowners with limited space, RV installations, and small off-grid systems in Australia.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent efficiency of 25% at an affordable price
- Compact and lightweight for easy handling
- Enhanced durability with 16 busbar design
- Good warranty coverage for peace of mind
Cons:
- May require additional mounting hardware
- Not as portable as foldable models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “A+++++ Call Sun N-Type Panels use the highest quality components, with unbelievable craftsmanship, durability, attention to detail, highest efficiency, higher power output, and a 25 Year Warranty. If you want the absolute best for this price point Call Sun is definitely Top Tier.”
Customer Review: “These panels have surprised me. I bought these as I have limited space to accommodate solar panels. During the middle of the day I am seeing around 820 -830 watts of output. I am getting full power even in limited space.”
4. Renogy 100W 12V Solar Panel, High-Efficiency Monocrystalline for RV, Marine, Rooftop, and Off-Grid Use
This Renogy 100W panel is a reliable workhorse for fixed installations. It’s efficient, durable, and perfect for RVs, boats, or rooftops. The compact design makes installation a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Market-leading 25% conversion efficiency with A+ grade cells
- ✓ 16BB technology for enhanced performance
- ✓ Compact and 8% lighter than previous models
- ✓ Durable construction for long-term outdoor use
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its proven track record in off-grid applications. It’s a solid choice if you need dependable power for your RV or cabin.
Best For
Ideal for RV enthusiasts, marine applications, and rooftop solar setups in Australian homes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High efficiency and reliable power output
- Compact and lightweight for easy mounting
- Durable build suitable for harsh environments
- Good value for money with Renogy’s reputation
Cons:
- Not portable; designed for fixed installation
- May require professional installation for optimal results
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Amazing panel, works great I get anywhere from 70 to 90 watts with it laying basically flat.”
Customer Review: “I got a really good price on this panel so I gave it a try. We had a 21 degree blue sky day in Michigan so I hooked the panel up. I lined the panel up accurately on the sun and it was pushing 118 watts.”
5. Renogy 200W 12V Portable Solar Panels Suitcase with Waterproof 20A Charge Controller, Foldable 20…
The Renogy 200W suitcase is a complete solar kit ready for adventure. It includes a charge controller and is foldable for easy transport. Perfect for those who need more power on the go.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Plug-and-play kit with 200W panel and waterproof 20A charge controller
- ✓ Exceptional efficiency with A+ grade monocrystalline cells
- ✓ Portable foldable design in a sturdy suitcase
- ✓ Includes alligator clips for easy battery connection
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this for its convenience and power. It’s a great all-in-one solution for camping or emergency backup.
Best For
Best for campers, overlanders, and anyone needing a high-wattage portable system for power stations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Complete kit with charge controller, ready to use
- High 200W output for faster charging
- Durable suitcase design for protection and portability
- Waterproof controller suitable for outdoor conditions
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier than smaller panels
- Can be pricey compared to basic panels
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Awesome product! The case is sturdy and well-designed, making it easy to transport. Worked flawlessly during dry camping in Florida kept my DIY power station charged and even powered the fridge for ice cream at the beach. Highly recommend.”
Customer Review: “Renogy 200-watt solar suitcase notes-Two Year Ownership Update at Bottom, July 2023-Quick notes on things to watch out for:- B01 error on controller. Indicates a wire is disconnected somewhere between the controller and your battery.”
6. 100W Portable Solar Panel, Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Charger with 18V DC & USB Outputs, IP65…
This 100W foldable panel is ultra-light and compact, ideal for life on the move. With IP65 waterproofing and multiple outputs, it’s a reliable charger for outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 23.5% high efficiency for faster power-up
- ✓ Ultra-light at 4.6 lbs and compact when folded
- ✓ Universal compatibility with 10-in-1 adapter kit
- ✓ IP65 waterproof rating for rugged outdoor use
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its balance of portability and performance. It’s easy to carry and works with many devices.
Best For
Perfect for backpackers, travelers, and those charging small electronics like phones and power banks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very lightweight and easy to pack
- High efficiency with good output in sunny conditions
- Includes versatile adapter kit for wide compatibility
- Waterproof design for durability
Cons:
- Output may drop significantly on cloudy days
- Adapter kit can be confusing for beginners
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Charges a 146Wh power station to 100% over a sunny day. Charges a 10000mah power bank in an hour or two. Easy to set up, easy to use, comes with all the cables. Folds into a neat, laptop-sized pouch with a carry handle.”
Customer Review: “Charges a 146Wh power station to 100% over a sunny day. Easy to set up, easy to use, comes with all the cables. Folds into a neat, laptop-sized pouch.”
7. 100W 12V Foldable Solar Panel – Monocrystalline Portable Charger for Camping, Laptop & Smartphone…
The Intenergy 100W panel is a simple and effective charger for camping. It’s foldable, lightweight, and offers good efficiency. The multiple ports make it versatile for various devices.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Foldable and portable, weighing only 6.9 pounds
- ✓ High conversion efficiency up to 24%
- ✓ Wide compatibility with dual USB, DC, Type-C, and MC4 ports
- ✓ Includes 10 different adapters for flexibility
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its straightforward design and reliability. It’s a no-fuss option that gets the job done.
Best For
Great for casual campers, hikers, and users needing to charge laptops and smartphones outdoors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Good efficiency with multiple output options
- Comes with a variety of adapters
- Affordable for the features offered
Cons:
- On/off switch can be odd to use
- Build quality may not be as premium as higher-end brands
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The on off switch is kind of odd but compatible with many devices and works great. Very compact and light.”
Customer Review: “it’s efficiency is over 80% most of the time, and I’ve been using it in a not so ‘high solar energy’ zone.”
8. 100W Portable Solar Panel for Power Station, Compatible with Jackery, Ecoflow, Bluetti, Anker and…
This 100W panel is designed specifically for power stations like Jackery and Ecoflow. It’s a reliable option for keeping your station charged off-grid. The compatibility list is extensive.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compatible with major power station brands (Jackery, Ecoflow, etc.)
- ✓ Portable and foldable for easy storage
- ✓ Good output for charging power stations efficiently
- ✓ Durable construction for outdoor use
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it if you own a popular power station and need a dedicated solar charger. It’s straightforward and effective.
Best For
Ideal for users of Jackery, Ecoflow, Bluetti, or Anker power stations for camping or emergency backup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide compatibility with many power station brands
- Portable and easy to set up
- Reliable performance for off-grid charging
- Often comes at a competitive price
Cons:
- May not include many extra features like USB ports
- Limited reviews available for long-term durability
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have an eHom 300Wh solar generator that we use for camping and as a power backup, so I was looking for a portable solar panel. I ordered the 100W panel and am pretty impressed with it as it puts out ~22-23V in open circuit testing.”
Customer Review: “Can’t give an accurate review since I have not really used it yet. Props for its compactability.”
9. ALLPOWERS SP027 100W Foldable Solar Panel,23% Efficient IP67 Waterproof for Power Station, Campin…
The ALLPOWERS 100W panel is rugged and efficient, with IP67 waterproofing. It’s a great choice for harsh outdoor conditions. The foldable design makes it easy to carry on adventures.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Efficient 100W output with 23% conversion efficiency
- ✓ Ultra-light and compact, folding to a slim size
- ✓ Rugged IP67 waterproof rating for full protection
- ✓ Compatible with many power stations and devices
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its durability and weather resistance. It’s built to last in tough Australian outdoors.
Best For
Best for outdoor enthusiasts in wet or dusty environments, and for camping with power stations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High waterproof rating (IP67) for extreme conditions
- Good efficiency and reliable power output
- Lightweight and portable for its durability
- Compatible with various power stations
Cons:
- May not be as universally compatible as some models
- Can be pricey compared to basic panels
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “2021 AllPowers 120 watt Solar PanelI already have an AllPowers 372Wh Power Station Generator. Which works great. I have used it to power lights and fans during a power outage. Also used it to power Christmas lights on my pontoon boat this year.”
Customer Review: “I wish I could give this 4.5 stars because this is a great value that does what it is supposed to, but isn’t as universal as some may think. Works with Bluetti power station but has some limitations.”
10. Renogy 50W 12V Flexible Solar Panel, Monocrystalline for Marine, RV, Cabin, and Curved Surfaces
The Renogy 50W flexible panel is perfect for curved surfaces on boats or RVs. It’s ultra-thin and lightweight, making installation easy. Great for low-power applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extremely flexible for curved surfaces like marine or RV roofs
- ✓ Ultra lightweight, 70% lighter than conventional panels
- ✓ Super thin lamination, only a tenth of an inch tall
- ✓ Durable and weather-resistant for outdoor use
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its unique flexibility. It’s ideal where rigid panels won’t fit, like on curved van roofs.
Best For
Best for marine applications, RV curved roofs, cabins, and any surface where standard panels can’t mount.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible design for unconventional mounting surfaces
- Very lightweight and easy to install
- Thin profile that’s hardly noticeable
- Good for low to moderate power needs
Cons:
- Lower wattage (50W) may not suit high power demands
- Can be more expensive per watt than rigid panels
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using two of the Renogy 100 watt flexible solar panels for about 3 years with our van. I mounted them to 1/8″ plywood and deploy them whenever we’re camped. They’ve worked great, and I’ve seen as high as 175 watt output in right conditions.”
Customer Review: “Bought two of these flexible solar panels. I use them to charge 12 volt deep cycle batteries and power 12 volt LED lights on my barn. They work great. Plenty of power for my LED lights.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Solar Panels Australia 2020
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best solar panels in Australia for 2020, focus on efficiency, portability, durability, and compatibility. Efficiency tells you how well the panel converts sunlight to power. Portability is key for camping or RV use. Durability matters in harsh Aussie weather. Compatibility ensures it works with your power station or battery system.
Budget Planning
Set a realistic budget. Portable panels range from affordable 100W options to pricier high-efficiency models. Remember, investing in a quality panel can save you money long-term by reducing electricity bills and providing reliable off-grid power.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right solar panel depends on your needs. For camping, go portable and foldable. For home use, consider fixed panels with high efficiency. Always check warranties and customer reviews. Our top 10 list for 2020 covers a variety of uses to help you decide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best solar panel for camping in Australia?
A: For camping, look for portable, foldable panels like the Renogy 100W or EBL 100W. They are lightweight, efficient, and easy to carry.
Q: How do I maintain my solar panels?
A: Keep them clean from dust and debris. Store them dry when not in use. Most panels need little maintenance, but check connections regularly.
Q: Can solar panels work on cloudy days?
A: Yes, but efficiency drops. High-efficiency panels (like N-type) perform better in low light than standard ones.
Q: Are solar panels worth it in Australia?
A: Absolutely! Australia has plenty of sunlight, making solar panels a great way to cut energy costs and go green.
Q: What size solar panel do I need for my RV?
A> It depends on your power use. For basics like lights and charging, 100W to 200W is enough. For appliances, consider 200W or more.
We’ve covered the best solar panels Australia 2020 has to offer. From portable foldable models to high-efficiency fixed panels, there’s something for everyone. Solar power is a smart investment for saving money and enjoying energy independence. Ready to make the switch? Check out our top picks on Amazon today and start harnessing the sun’s power!
