Just as renewable energy has grown and changed over the past few years, so have solar panels undergone several changes too. The materials they are made from have changed, as well as their sizes, power outputs and shapes. These days, Flexible Solar Panels, that look and perform just as well as their rigid cousins, are being used in several ways by many people.

These flexible solar panels are extremely versatile, in that their light weight makes them highly portable. Unlike rigid conventional panels, the flexible type can be rolled and folded, making them less likely to break. These types of panels also perform exceptionally well in conditions where only low light is available.

In addition to this, it is more affordable to manufacture flexible panels; material consumption is low and is recyclable once the panel has reached the end of its life cycle.

Properties of flexible panels

These types of panels are useful in a wide variety of situations and environments. Their properties are different when compared to rigid panels and include:

• That they are available in various sizes to meet all requirements
• Only the highest grades of materials and processes are used in their manufacture
• They are a dependable and efficient source of energy that can be used in many different ways
• They are excellent for developing your own solar chargers, portable power systems and other products

Major benefits of Flexible Solar Panels

Being lighter in weight than conventional panels, they are ideal for installing on low load-bearing roofs, which are unsuitable for installing rigid panels.

Because no racks, roof penetrations or ballasts are needed to install them, installation is easier, with reduced labor costs.

They can also be applied to the roofs of buses, which means that when the vehicle is idling, the solar power from the panels will still heat and cool the bus as usual, as well as power accessories like power plug-ins, Wi-Fi and refrigerators, without burning any fuel whatsoever.

How flexible panels can be used

Following is a list of a variety of ways in which these panels can be used.

• Being completely portable, these solar power systems are ideal for use in autos, boats and RV’s
• Solar batteries can be charged with them
• They are affordable off-the-grid PV systems for cabins and homes
• They can be incorporated into new energy products for consumers

These panels are extremely useful for those who enjoy going cycling, kayaking, climbing and hiking. Being flexible and capable of being rolled up, they are also useful for use on boats, to reduce the demands on the motor.