Solar Panels
Stay powered wherever the road takes you with reliable solar panels designed for motorhomes and RV travel. Solar provides a convenient way to keep your batteries charged while camping off-grid, helping run essentials like lights, fridges and devices without relying on shore power. New to solar? Start with our beginner's guide to solar panel installation.
Finding the Right Motorhome Solar Panels
There are a few things to think about when choosing RV solar panels. Read what size solar panel and battery you need and what you need for a 12V solar power system before you buy.
Firstly, consider roof space. Larger motorhomes may have room for multiple rigid panels mounted permanently to the roof, while compact or flexible panels suit curved or limited roof areas on smaller campervans.
What is your daily power consumption? Think about the appliances you regularly use, such as 12V fridges, lighting, water pumps, and chargers. The more equipment you rely on, the more solar capacity you need to keep your battery bank topped up.
Finally, decide which panel format suits your setup:
- Rigid panels: durable and efficient for permanent roof installations
- Flexible panels: lightweight options for curved or limited roof areas
- Portable panels: ideal when you prefer a flexible campsite setup (see our portable power for off-grid adventures guide)
You might start with a single panel and expand your system over time. Our easy RV upgrades guide has more ideas.
Flexible and Folding Solar Panels for Versatile Setups
If you want flexibility in how and where you generate power, browse flexible solar panels and portable options.
Solar blankets and folding panels can sit in the sun while your motorhome stays in the shade, which helps in hot summer conditions when keeping the RV cool matters.
Flexible and folding solar panels are also ideal when:
- Roof space is limited
- The roof surface is curved or uneven
- You want a backup charging solution
- You move between campsites frequently
Many folding panels come with integrated legs and carry handles for quick setup and pack-down.
Charge Controllers for Reliable RV Battery Management
A solar regulator is essential for managing power from your panels to your batteries. It delivers the correct charging voltage and prevents overcharging, helping extend battery life.
Match your regulator to the size of your solar array and battery capacity. MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers maximise energy harvest, especially in low light or partial shading.
We rate Victron MPPT gear as some of the best regulators you can buy: strong performance, Bluetooth monitoring, and pricing that is not crazy expensive for a premium product. Popular models include:
- Victron SmartSolar 75/15 MPPT
- Victron SmartSolar 100/30 MPPT
- Victron SmartSolar 100/20 MPPT
- Victron SmartSolar 100/50 MPPT
Many modern controllers offer Bluetooth monitoring so you can check charging performance and battery status from your phone. Multi-stage charging protects your batteries through the full charge cycle.
Mounts, Connectors and Solar Accessories
For reliable solar on your motorhome, secure, weatherproof and maintainable parts matter. Browse solar mounts and solar panel accessories.
For bonding panels to roofs and fittings, our go-to is Sika Sikaflex 552AT (300ml): a marine-grade adhesive sealant suited to mounting solar panels and hardware on RV and boat surfaces.
Popular solar panel accessories include:
- ABS solar panel mounting brackets (set of 4, white)
- ABS side mounting brackets (set of 2) and spoiler mounting brackets (set of 2)
- Solar panel twin entry gland for routing wiring into your motorhome
- Waterproof solar panel plugs (male and female)
- Solar panel Y connector plugs for expanding arrays
- Solar cable lead, twin core 6mm² x 5m with MC4
- Solar regulator lead set 2.4m (Renogy)
For cable runs, browse our full electrical cable range, including solar-rated cable sold per metre for outdoor use, plus twin-core and pre-terminated leads for panel-to-regulator connections.
Complete your circuit with switches and switch panels from our 12V electrical range.
Shop Solar Power Panels for Camping and More at Burnsco
Burnsco has everything you need to build or upgrade your RV power setup. Shop solar panels, regulators and accessories online NZ-wide or visit your nearest Burnsco store.
For help choosing panels, regulators or cable sizing, call 0800 10 20 41 or contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any legal requirements for installing caravan solar panels in New Zealand?
RV solar systems in New Zealand can typically be installed without permits, but they should still follow good electrical safety practices. For typical 12V solar setups, the main requirements focus on safe wiring, proper cable sizing, circuit protection, and secure battery installation with proper ventilation. Components should also be weather-resistant to handle New Zealand outdoor conditions.
Follow our solar panel installation guide for best practice. If your solar system connects to a 240V electrical system, use a qualified electrician so it complies with New Zealand electrical regulations.
How do solar panels perform in winter or low-light conditions in New Zealand?
Solar panels still generate power in winter and on cloudy days, but output is lower than on bright summer days. Efficient MPPT charge controllers help maximise production in lower light. Position panels in direct sunlight, keep them clean, and read why solar output drops in autumn and how to beat it.
Can I charge a lithium battery with a standard RV solar setup?
Yes, if your solar charge controller is compatible with lithium batteries. Many MPPT regulators, including Victron SmartSolar models, include selectable settings for lithium, AGM and lead-acid batteries.
Can I run a 240V appliance directly from my RV solar system?
Solar panels typically charge your RV 12V battery system, which then powers 12V appliances. To run 240V appliances, you usually need an inverter that converts 12V battery power to 240V. The inverter and battery bank size depend on the appliance load. See what you need for a 12V solar power system.
How long do solar panels typically last on an RV?
Most high-quality solar panels continue to produce usable power for 20 years or more, though output can gradually decrease over time. Proper installation with quality mounts and occasional cleaning help maintain performance.
Can I use solar panels while the RV is moving?
Yes. Roof-mounted solar panels can continue charging your batteries while your RV is moving, provided they are properly installed and connected to your charge controller. Portable or folding panels are typically packed away during travel and set up at camp.
