Starter · 100–150W
A monocrystalline panel with a typical Victron SmartSolar 75/15 MPPT, fused cabling and roof gland. A starting point for smaller vans and lighter use.
SOUTH DEVON VEHICLE INSTALLATIONS · AT MOTORQUIP
Solar panel installations
Put available roof space to work. Panels, controller and charging settings matched to your leisure battery and travel plans.
SOLAR CHARGING
Three useful starting points.
Tourer · 200–300W
A roof-mounted array, typically with a SmartSolar 100/30 controller, isolation, fusing and carefully routed cabling.
Larger systems · 400–600W+
Subject to roof space, a suitably rated controller such as a SmartSolar 100/50 or 150/60. The complete panel and battery specification determines the final choice.
New conversion or existing installation.
We can add solar to a new build, assess an existing system or combine it with Fogstar lithium, a Victron MultiPlus and optional Cerbo GX monitoring. Fixed and portable options can be discussed.
Panels recharge the leisure battery through an MPPT controller. Output varies with daylight, season, weather and shade; a panel’s wattage is not a promise of constant output or year-round independence from hook-up.
We check roof dimensions and obstructions, cable access, battery chemistry and the existing controller before quoting. Tell us your registration, battery and appliances; roof and equipment photos can help with an existing installation.
Build & Upgrade Guide ↗PLAN YOUR SOLAR UPGRADE
Solar fitting questions.
How much solar does my campervan or motorhome need?
Start with the equipment you use, how long you stay parked and the charging available between stops. The 100–150W, 200–300W and 400–600W+ options above are starting points. Roof space, vents and rooflights affect the layout, while battery capacity and your daily energy use help us choose a suitable system.
Can solar charge my existing leisure battery?
Often an existing battery can be retained, but we check its condition, chemistry and charging requirements alongside the controller. A move to lithium needs a review of solar, alternator and mains charging together. We confirm what can stay and what needs adapting before recommending the work.
Will solar mean I never need campsite hook-up?
That cannot be promised from the panel rating alone. Winter daylight, shade, weather and your appliances all affect the balance between charging and use. Solar can complement driving and mains charging; we plan around the way you travel rather than promise a fixed number of days off-grid.
Can you add to an existing solar installation?
We can assess the present panel, controller, cable route and battery settings before planning an extension. The combined array must suit the controller and battery system. Tell us about rooflights, racks or other roof equipment, including anything you plan to add later.
Where is the solar installation carried out?
Camper and larger-vehicle electrical work is handled through South Devon Vehicle Installations at Seale Hayne, Newton Abbot. Visits are by appointment. Include your registration, existing battery and the appliances you want to run so we can discuss the right starting point.
For the complete system, read our Build & Upgrade Guide.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE
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Tell us what you drive and what you’d like to improve.