| For nature lovers, it doesn't get much better than | | | | cheapest is made from amorphous silicone. It is, |
| taking off in an RV and exploring the countryside. | | | | however, the least efficient at converting light into |
| Unfortunately, these large, bulky vehicles require a | | | | electricity. The next step up is polycrystalline silicone, |
| great deal of energy, even when off the road. | | | | being more expensive but more efficient. The slightly |
| We've yet to see a practical solar-powered engine on | | | | more expensive monocrystalline cells are the best, |
| the market, and the few hybrid RVs that have been | | | | having the highest available efficiency. The one |
| developed are still in the concept stage. There are, | | | | problem with monocrystalline cells is that they're not |
| however, a number of solar power kits that can be | | | | cut into square wafer-like pieces, and so cannot be |
| applied to recreational vehicles, decreasing or | | | | packed together as neatly as the other cell materials. |
| eliminating the need for pricey electrical hook-ups at | | | | Monocrystalline is the best choice if there is sufficient |
| camping sites. There are a number of things to | | | | roof space available. It may be wise to consult a |
| consider when planning to install such a system. | | | | professional when making this determination, and |
| The first thing to do when deciding on the right solar | | | | definitely when ready to install. |
| kit is to gather some information. The amount of | | | | In some cases, when there isn't space to install a |
| roof space available on which to mount a solar array. | | | | large enough array, it may be necessary to employ a |
| Next, it should be approximated how much direct | | | | gas-powered generator to supplement power |
| sunlight will be available on average, both during | | | | generation when the solar system is overtaxed. |
| driving and while parked in the Sun. Lastly, it should | | | | Otherwise, it will still be necessary to find camping |
| be determined how much electricity is being used in | | | | sites with electrical hook-ups. Once again, as with any |
| camp, and how many appliances are desirable to | | | | complex installation, a professional should always be |
| power at any one time. | | | | consulted. |
| With these facts in mind, it becomes possible to | | | | As energy prices rise, so do camping fees with |
| make a fair decision regarding the necessary amount | | | | electrical hook-ups. Eliminating these expenses can go |
| of solar panels with which to create an array, what | | | | far in offsetting the cost of gasoline, and in quelling |
| type of photovoltaic panels to use, and how much | | | | the unrest that can come with the enormous carbon |
| battery storage will be needed. There are three kinds | | | | footprint of an RV. |
| of panels commonly available on the market. The | | | | |