1 or 2 solar panels

[AntC]

hi all
i am a bit light on this topic so could do with some help. i have the option to buy 1 14w solar panel or 2 7W panels and place them in parallel. i have read that if a part of the panel is shaded the whole panel stops working at its max, the only place that they can realistically go is on the coach roof so could be shaded by the boom at some times of the day.

any help appreciated

cheers

 

[stevensuf]

if you put them in parallel make sure they have blocking diodes or the lit one will still feed the shaded one.

 

[William_H]

Solar panels

I don't think there is a clear answer to your question. Some solar panels are made up of stripes of silicon such that it is less likely all of one strip will be in the shade. (of the boom) if this is the panel you buy try to orient it so that the shadow will fall at right angles to the stripes.
Yes you could be more certain of constant power with 2 panels. It is all a bit uncertain. I would go for whatever is cheapest or more convenient to mount.
I fit mine on top of the boom and remove before sailing. I found that while sailing the panel is at risk of damage from poles feet etc. good luck olewill