GeoPro 16 Solar Addition

[Desmo007]

Hello folks -

I was planning to add another solar panel to my 2018 GeoPro 16 footer. I see there is an additional plug on the side of my rv. Can I merely plug a Renology 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel into that plug and just use my built-in controller?

Thanks!!!

[sdelam]

I would try and follow the wires from the plug to see if they go to the controller or straight to the battery (most Likely). If you get a premade portable solar suitcase, they normally come with their own controller. If you go that route, be mindful or polarity as many have reported their plug did not match the panel polarity. Easy fix with an adapter or by switching the wires at the battery.

[Desmo007]

Ah okay. I imagine it might take some disassembly to follow the cable back. I’ll also double check the plug types.

[boondocking]

Check for 12+ volts at the plug to see if it goes directly to the battery.

[RedRoverComeOver]

Originally Posted by Desmo007

Hello folks -

I was planning to add another solar panel to my 2018 GeoPro 16 footer. I see there is an additional plug on the side of my rv. Can I merely plug a Renology 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel into that plug and just use my built-in controller?

Thanks!!!

I'm assuming it's the G15TB, correct?

It's typically wired to the battery and would work independently from the internal controller. You should get one with an included "waterproof" controller. Noticed they don't have the newer Eclipse panels for some reason. They were supposed to be more efficient and also have a different shape than the original.

Renogy's web site says it's on back order but amazon has it for the same price. Make sure you get the proper connector (MC4 to SAE) for the side connection since I think it comes with alligator clips for direct battery attachment. You'll probably have to swap the polarity with an adapter or reversing the wire on the panel with a note as to why. I went with a 10 AWG 20 ft. cable.

https://www.renogy.com/200-watt-12-v...olar-suitcase/

This is what the Eclipse panel looks like.

[mnoland30]

I have read that it is better to use a separate controller for the panels. That way if one is shaded, the other one can still deliver its full power.

[sdelam]

Originally Posted by mnoland30

I have read that it is better to use a separate controller for the panels. That way if one is shaded, the other one can still deliver its full power.

If your roof top and portable panels are the same voltage/ amp rating, then you can wire them in parallel using the same controller without any issues assuming your controller can handle the load. If they are different, than a separate controller is the easiest solution.