KINGSOLAR 120 Watt 18 Volt Monocrystalline Sunpower Semi Flexible Solar Panel Review
Mankind’s profligate use of the conventional, non-renewable energy sources essentially comprising fossil fuels like natural gas, coal, and petroleum has polluted the earth’s ecosystems almost irreversibly.
Reckless exploitation of the earth’s natural resources has not only contaminated and endangered the natural environment but has also led to the near depletion of the non-renewable energy sources. It is anticipated that the current reserves of fossils fuels will get exhausted in the next 50 years.
No wonder then that humanity has shifted its focus to tapping the renewable energy resources for fulfilling all their energy needs.
The chief sources of renewable energy are sunlight, radiant or geothermal heat, tides, and wind from which the human race derives solar energy, geothermal energy, hydroelectricity, biofuels, and biomass.
Harnessing these energy sources which keep replenishing on a perpetual basis for electricity generation, transportation, and heating/cooling fluids is not only cheaper than using non-renewable sources of energy but also eco-friendly.
In this context, using solar panels and solar chargers that converts energy stored in the sun’s rays into electricity, for meeting domestic and industrial/commercial energy requirements can be remarkably affordable as well as environmental-friendly.
For instance, the KINGSOLAR 120 watt 18v Solar Panel/Solar Charger with an efficiency rating of 23% can rapidly charge 12v batteries used in RVs, patrol cars, private autos, sailboats, and yachts to name a few. Additionally, this solar panel from KINGSOLAR finds applications in other areas including marine, rooftop power generation, and emergency off-grid.
Features
Before understanding the benefits this panel offers, it will be a wise idea to go through the features that it comes with. Some of them have been discussed below.
Performance Oriented
This KINGSOLAR solar panel has a 23.5% efficiency rating which is much higher than other comparable products available in the market.
Such a grading implies that the panel is effective in converting 23.5% of the tapped solar energy into electricity which is quite commendable considering the fact majority of panel brands come with a rating of 22% or even less.
The solar panel houses monocrystalline solar cells which makes the panel extremely performance oriented, adds to its longevity, improves heat resistivity, and reduces installation costs.
Across-the-Board Compatibility
The 120w solar module is capable of charging any 12v battery be it lead-acid, lithium-cell or other types of batteries used in sailboats, yachts, RVs, caravans, trailers, expedition vehicles, remote communication centers, marine sites etc. So, this panel embedded with monocrystalline solar cells finds across-the-board applications.
Easily Installable
There are 8 pre-drilled orifices or openings on the module that enables it to be conveniently mounted and secured on different kinds of surfaces, rendering it ideal for temporary setups.
Alternatively, the panel can also be tethered using Velcro tapes and adhesives doing away with the need to use expensive accessories for installation.
High on Adaptability
The solar cell plasticized backsheet is bendable up to a maximum of 30˚ rendering it capable of being affixed onto various types of irregular surfaces. At the same, the module’s pliability means it can be easily transported and hauled as well as requires minimal storage space.
Weatherproof and waterproof
The Sunpowermonocrystalline solar cells are embedded exactly in between two upper (PET and EVA) layers and two lower (EVA & TPT) layers. The junction box beneath the TPT layer is completely sealed which makes it waterproof.
Versatile
The panel houses a blocking diode that checks current drainage in reverse during nighttime.
Pros
- Comes with nameplate rating which is much higher than other competitive brands
- Effectively charges any 12v battery
- Monocrystalline solar cells accords the module an extended shelf life
- Can be used on a wide variety of surfaces owing to its structure and bendiness
- Has rounded edges that keeps it from getting scratched
- Solar cells are cocooned in between two upper and lower layers which keeps them protected and shielded
- Panel continues to supply power even when the module is enveloped with a cardboard sheet
Cons
- The diode doors keep dropping or falling off so can affect the effectiveness of the valve
- The product is somewhat expensive (though it is not a technical drawback)
How Can You Benefit From Using This Product?
The KINGSOLAR panel comes perfectly handy for many individuals including but not limited to campers, sailboat and yacht owners, backpackers, and truckers for temporary/backup power supply.
This solar module is supremely suitable for charging any kind of 12v battery that is normally found in different types of terrestrial and aquatic vehicles. 12v batteries which also find other domestic and industrial applications can also be charged quickly and effectively via this solar panel.
As this panel curves considerably, it can be conveniently installed for lighting up a tent put up in a forest or an expedition vehicle anchored in a remote area where normal power supply may not be available. The panel being amazingly lightweight and compact can be carried by hand or in a vehicle as well as stored easily even in a cramped space.
How Does The Product Stack Up Against its Closest Competitors?
There are almost innumerable solar panels or solar charger brands that can be weighed up against the KINGSOLAR product. However, one product that compares favorably, almost head to head with the KINGSOLAR is the HQST module.
Though both the products exploit monocrystalline solar cells, the efficiency and power output rating of KINGSOLAR is better than the HQST model-120watts/23.5%against 100w/22%.
Also the former is bendable while the latter is not. The bendiness feature enables the KINGSOLAR to be setup on an array of uneven and irregular surfaces.
At the same time, the panel from KINGSOLAR comes with more installation options. Nevertheless, both the models are waterproof, corrosion resistant, and endowed with an extended functional life.
Verdict
Closing up, it can be deduced that the KINGSOLAR solar panel packs in quite a punch as it comes with praiseworthy conversion efficiency and is capable of providing juice to any 12v battery even in low light or cloudy conditions.
The pack comprises a solar panel, MC4 connector along with 1m cable, and instruction manual. The manufacturer is offering a 1 year guarantee on the product.