Sterling Power flexible solar panels provide renewable battery charging for caravans, motorhomes, boats, and off-grid applications where rigid glass panels are impractical or undesirable. The company manufactures monocrystalline solar panels in 55W and 150W ratings, constructed with multi-point cell connections sealed in ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) on a TPT (tedlar-polyester-tedlar) base for durability and weather resistance. This construction method creates panels that flex up to 140mm of bend radius, allowing installation on curved motorhome roofs, boat decks, or flexible mounting surfaces where traditional rigid panels cannot be fitted. The ETFE coating provides superior UV degradation resistance compared to cheaper PET alternatives whilst maintaining high light transmission, and the flexible construction makes the panels resistant to cracking from vibration or impacts during travel. Sterling's 150W panel measures approximately 1480mm x 670mm with minimal thickness of around 2.5mm, whilst the 55W panel is proportionately smaller for tighter spaces or supplementary charging. The panels are designed for 12V nominal systems producing approximately 18V to 20V open circuit voltage, suitable for direct connection to solar charge controllers or battery charging systems. Sterling also manufactures a complete range of solar accessories including MC4 cables in various lengths from 0.5m to 5m with 6mm diameter copper conductors, MC4 bulkhead connectors for routing cables through panels and walls whilst maintaining weatherproof seals, MC4 branch connectors for parallel panel configurations, and MC4 group connectors for combining multiple panel strings into charging systems.
The flexible construction of Sterling solar panels makes them particularly suitable for motorhomes and boats where aerodynamics, appearance, and weight distribution matter. Unlike rigid panels mounted on brackets that create wind resistance and add height, flexible panels can be bonded directly to roof surfaces using appropriate adhesives, creating a low-profile installation that doesn't compromise vehicle aerodynamics or clearance under barriers. The lightweight construction adds minimal weight compared to framed glass panels, important for payload-conscious campervan converters and caravan owners. Installation typically involves thorough surface cleaning and degreasing, then bonding with flexible adhesive specifically designed for solar panel mounting that allows some flex whilst maintaining long-term adhesion. Some installers use additional mechanical fixing at corners or edges with small self-tapping screws through the panel border, though this must be done carefully to avoid damaging cells. The panels work best in full sunlight but will generate power in overcast conditions, with output proportional to light intensity. Typical realistic yields in UK summer conditions are around 70 to 85 percent of rated capacity during peak sunlight hours, dropping to 40 to 60 percent in spring and autumn, and 20 to 40 percent in winter. Combining solar charging with battery-to-battery chargers creates an effective system where the solar panels maintain batteries during static periods whilst the B2B charger provides high-current charging when driving.
Sterling's MC4 connectors and cables form the standard connection system for solar panel installations, providing weatherproof connections rated for outdoor use in all conditions. The MC4 (Multi-Contact 4mm) standard ensures compatibility between different solar components from various manufacturers. Sterling's MC4 cables use tinned copper conductors with proper UV-resistant insulation rated for high temperatures and long-term solar applications, not to be confused with standard automotive cable which degrades quickly in sunlight. The bulkhead connectors allow cables to pass through motorhome or boat surfaces whilst maintaining weatherproof integrity, essential for routing power from roof-mounted panels to interior charge controllers. Branch connectors enable parallel connection of multiple panels to increase current output, whilst maintaining individual panel isolation for fault tolerance. Typical Sterling solar installations combine a flexible panel bonded to the motorhome roof, appropriate-length MC4 cable run down to a solar charge controller mounted near the batteries, with a battery-to-battery charger providing supplementary charging when driving. Users report that 150W of solar provides useful maintenance charging for typical motorhome loads including lighting, water pump, and phone charging, but is insufficient alone for heavy users running compressor fridges, inverters, or induction cooking. Most successful off-grid setups combine 300W to 600W of solar with 300Ah plus of lithium batteries and high-amperage B2B charging for comprehensive power management. Sterling solar products carry standard warranties with technical support available for system sizing and installation guidance through their UK facility.
Pack of 2 x MC4 connectors (1 male, 1 female), to be used on solar pan
The MC4 solar cable crimping tool kit includes: 1 x Crimping tool f
Pack of 6 x self-adhesive cable tie holders.
6mm x 5M solar connection cable complete with MC4 connectors, male/fem
6mm x 4M solar connection cable complete with MC4 connectors, male/fem
6mm x 3M solar connection cable complete with MC4 connectors, male/fem
6mm x 2M solar connection cable complete with MC4 connectors, male/fem
6mm x 1M solar connection cable complete with MC4 connectors, male/fem
6mm x 0.5M solar connection cable complete with MC4 connectors, male/f
MC4 connector male/female incorporating 20A fuse.
MC4 connector male/female incorporating 10A fuse.
Pack of 2 x MC4 bulkhead connectors (1 male, 1 female), to be used on
Pack of 2 x Sterling Power MC4 branch connectors (1 male, 1 female), t
Pack of 2 x Sterling Power MC4 branch connectors (1 male, 1 female), t
Pack of 2 x Sterling Power MC4 branch connectors (1 male, 1 female), t
Pack of 2 x Sterling Power MC4 group connectors (1 male, 1 female), to
Pack of 2 x MC4 group connectors (1 male, 1 female), to be used on sol
Pack of 2 x MC4 group connectors (1 male, 1 female), to be used on sol
150W Flexible Solar Panel, 12V nominal. Constructed using monocrystall
55W Flexible Solar Panel, 12V nominal. Constructed using monocrystalli
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I install a Sterling flexible solar panel on my motorhome roof?Thoroughly clean and degrease the mounting area on your motorhome roof, removing any wax, silicone, or contaminants. Use flexible adhesive specifically designed for solar panel bonding that allows some flex whilst maintaining long-term adhesion. Apply adhesive according to manufacturer instructions, typically in strips or dots rather than full coverage to allow flex. Position the panel carefully and apply even pressure across the entire surface. Some installers add mechanical fixing at corners using small self-tapping screws through the panel border, avoiding cell areas. Allow adhesive to cure fully before connecting electrically. Route cables to avoid sharp edges and use MC4 bulkhead connectors for weatherproof entry into the vehicle.Will a Sterling 150W solar panel keep my batteries charged?A 150W solar panel generates approximately 8 to 9 amps in ideal UK summer sunshine, reducing to 3 to 5 amps in spring and autumn, and 1 to 3 amps in winter. This provides useful maintenance charging for basic loads including LED lighting, water pump, and phone charging. However, 150W is insufficient alone for heavy users running compressor fridges, inverters, or induction cooking off-grid. Most successful off-grid motorhome setups use 300W to 600W of solar combined with large lithium battery banks and battery-to-battery charging when driving. Solar panels work best as part of a comprehensive charging strategy rather than as the sole power source.Can I connect multiple Sterling solar panels together?Yes, Sterling solar panels can be connected in parallel using MC4 branch connectors or group connectors to increase total current output to your charge controller. Connect all positive leads together and all negative leads together using appropriate MC4 connectors rated for the total current. Ensure your solar charge controller is rated for the combined wattage and current from all panels. Parallel connection maintains the 12V nominal voltage whilst adding the amperage from each panel together. For example, two 150W panels in parallel provide approximately 300W total with combined current of 16 to 18 amps in ideal conditions.What is the difference between Sterling's ETFE and cheaper PET solar panels?ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) is a superior fluoropolymer coating that offers better UV degradation resistance, higher light transmission, and longer service life compared to cheaper PET (polyethylene terephthalate) alternatives. ETFE maintains clarity and mechanical properties over many years of sun exposure, whilst PET can yellow and degrade more quickly. ETFE also has better high-temperature performance and chemical resistance. Sterling uses ETFE on their flexible solar panels specifically for durability in harsh outdoor conditions on motorhomes and boats. Whilst initially more expensive, ETFE panels maintain performance longer and provide better return on investment over their lifespan.Do I need a solar charge controller with Sterling solar panels?Yes, you need a solar charge controller between the solar panel and batteries to regulate charging voltage and prevent overcharging. Never connect solar panels directly to batteries without a controller. Choose an MPPT (maximum power point tracking) controller for best efficiency, particularly with larger panel arrays, or a PWM (pulse width modulation) controller for simpler budget installations. The controller must be rated for the total wattage and current from your solar panel setup. Some Sterling battery-to-battery chargers include integrated solar MPPT controllers, providing both alternator charging and solar charging through a single unit for space-efficient installations.What are MC4 connectors and why does solar equipment use them?MC4 (Multi-Contact 4mm) is the industry-standard connector system for solar panel installations, providing weatherproof connections rated for outdoor use in all conditions. The connectors feature a locking mechanism that prevents accidental disconnection and includes internal metal contacts designed for high current and low resistance. MC4 connectors are rated for decades of outdoor exposure to UV, rain, temperature extremes, and salt spray in marine environments. The standardisation means solar components from different manufacturers are compatible. Sterling's MC4 connectors include all necessary components for proper termination and are rated at 30A for solar applications.Can I use Sterling flexible solar panels on a caravan?Yes, Sterling flexible solar panels work well on caravans, particularly touring caravans where the flexible construction handles vibration better than rigid panels. Bond the panel to the caravan roof using appropriate flexible adhesive. Route cables carefully to the interior using MC4 bulkhead connectors for weatherproof entry. Connect to a solar charge controller mounted near the leisure battery. Consider that caravans stored under trees or covered areas receive less sunlight than motorhomes that are driven regularly. A solar panel provides maintenance charging whilst the caravan is stored and can extend off-grid capacity when touring, though caravan fridges require substantial power best provided by hookup or gas operation.How much cable do I need between my Sterling solar panel and charge controller?Measure the actual distance from your panel location to the charge controller mounting position, accounting for the cable route including any corners or obstacles. Add approximately one metre for connections and strain relief. Sterling sells MC4 cables in lengths from 0.5m to 5m. For most motorhome installations with roof-mounted panels and interior charge controllers, 3m to 5m cable is typical. Use the shortest practical cable length to minimize voltage drop and power loss. Sterling's 6mm diameter MC4 cables are suitable for most recreational vehicle installations. Do not use standard automotive cable for solar applications as it lacks proper UV resistance and temperature rating.Do Sterling flexible solar panels work in winter?Yes, but output is significantly reduced. UK winter conditions with low sun angle, short days, and frequent cloud cover means solar panels typically generate only 20 to 40 percent of their summer output. A 150W panel might only produce 30W to 60W on a decent winter day, and much less on overcast days. This is usually insufficient to power typical motorhome loads independently. Winter solar primarily provides trickle maintenance charging rather than powering active use. Successful winter off-grid camping requires alternative charging methods including battery-to-battery charging when driving, occasional hookup use, or generator charging. Snow covering the panel completely stops power generation until cleared.What warranty do Sterling flexible solar panels come with?Sterling Power flexible solar panels typically carry standard manufacturer warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty terms vary by product and retailer, so check specific warranty information at the time of purchase. Solar panel warranties typically do not cover damage from improper installation, mechanical damage from impacts or over-flexing beyond specified limits, or degradation from exposure to chemicals or solvents. Keep proof of purchase and register your product for warranty coverage. Solar panels naturally degrade slowly over time, with typical performance reduction of around one percent per year being normal and not covered by warranty.
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