Complete Marine Solar System Kits. Solar pv kits * KYOKUSHO.COM

S-5! S-5-PV Kit

S-5!’s S-5-PV Kit features a groundbreaking stainless steel mounting disk with twelve nodes designed to ensure the module-to-module conductivity of anodized aluminum solar panel frames. This means it automatically provides a ground path in the module frame. No lugs or wire required except to connect one string of modules to another and to ground the system.

The S-5-PV Kit is one of the first solar module mounting solutions in the industry to be listed to the UL subject 2703, a standard that covers both bonding and mounting. Furthermore, the S-5-PV Kit has gained an ETL Listing to UL 1703.

The S-5-PV Kit is furnished with the steel mounting disk, Universal PV stud, Universal PV Grab and flange nut. Every solar system array has it’s own mounting requirements and S-5! has a mounting solution for most metal roofs. The kit is shown to the right with an S-5! Mini Clamp. The S-5-PV Kit is compatible with most common metal roofing materials, including brass and copper.

S5! Mini Clamps Available

The S-5-PV Kit may be mounted to many different S-5! clamps and brackets on metal roof solar panel systems with no mounting rails.

EdgeGrab™

EdgeGrab w/ S5! Mini Clamp

The S-5!® EdgeGrab™ and S-5-PV Kit together accommodate PV frame thicknesses 30–48 mm (if EdgeGrab’s serrated L-flange is positioned below the stud’s hex nut) and 34–51 mm (if EdgeGrab’s serrated L-flange is positioned above the stud’s hex nut).†

The embossed panel guide makes the module placement easier. The mounting disk is multi-directional and rails are not required. Four strategically placed under-disk hooks assist in wire management. The PV grab ears that hold the solar panel in place are broader to allow for ease of installation and precise module engagement.

Accommodating module thicknesses between 30 and 51 mm, the S-5-PV Kit fits the majority of solar panels on the market. Using the S-5! mini clamps, it fits most standing seam metal roofs. Using S-5! brackets or the mini clamps, the S-5-PV Kit works with the Universal PV Grab and EdgeGrab on most exposed-fastened and corrugated metal roofs. The standard Universal PV Grab is designed to fit field conditions (two adjacent panels), while the EdgeGrab is designed specifically for edge conditions at the end of a PV module row.

Clamps Brackets for the S-5-PV Kit

As a general rule, the following clamps and brackets can be used with the S5! S-5-PV Kit. It is important to contact us for expert S5! advice, even if you have done this before.

The CorruBracket is is a sturdy bracket mount for corrugated metal roofs.

Mini Clamp to mount a S-5-PV solar panel system array to a standing seam metal roof.
CorruBracket 100T to mount a S-5-PV solar panel system array to a corrugated metal roof.
ProteaBracket to mount a S-5-PV solar panel system array to a trapezoidal sheet metal roof.
VersaBracket to mount a S-5-PV solar panel system array to an exposed-fastened metal roof.

When ProteaBracket™ is used in conjunction with the S-5-PV Kit, an additional nut is required during installation to secure the universal PV stud and mounting disk to ProteaBracket’s slotted L-flange.

Example of the ProteaBracket with the S-5-PV Kit. The ProteaBracket is a versatile bracket mount for exposed-fastened trapezoidal metal roofs.

The S-5-PV Kit continues to be the easiest, most cost-effective way to install solar panels directly to standing seam metal roofs, remaining the most popular choice worldwide.

S-5-PV Kit w/ EdgeGrab ™

Wind dynamics are complex; thus, each system should be reviewed by a qualified licensed professional who understands wind effects on metal roof design and construction prior to purchase and installation. For more detailed information including specifications, installation instructions, and CAD drawings, contact us.

Literature

Complete Marine Solar System Kits

Figuring out the size of solar panel you need and matching it up with the various accessories required for a complete high performance system can be a daunting task. That is why our engineers have developed easy to install kits containing everything you need for your marine solar system.

See our Gallery of Installations and Customer Reviews pages for pictures of our customer installations for ideas on your boat.

Email us any time at [email protected] or call 248 705 8337.

We can customize any kits for you very easily. Most kits we ship are custom. Email or call with what you’d like.

Semi-flexible Panels Mounted with Zippers

Our monocrystalline semi-flexible high efficiency marine solar panels are ideal for mounting to canvas or rigid biminis or curved deck surface. These panels have an impermeable laminate coating allowing them to contour and flex against curved surfaces with a maximum bending radius of 30 degrees. Each panel can be affixed by double sided tape adhesive, snap, stitching or screw mounting. Grommets are an added bonus for ease-of-installation. All panels come with industry standard waterproof MC4 connectors. They can be walked on.

Easy to install kits. We have made it easy to go solar by matching up the optimum combinations of solar panels, controllers and hardware. Or, if you prefer, we will work with you to assemble a custom system to meet your specific needs.

Panel performance. Our semi-flexible solar panels are designed and built for the marine environment and use premium SunPower solar cells (A grade). The performance of our semi-flexible solar panels is comparable to our highly acclaimed rigid panels. We have found however, that the semi-flexible panels are a bit more sensitive to shading than the rigid panels.

Semi-rigid Solar System Kits

Top-of-pole Mounted Solar System Kits

Our top-of-pole mounting system enables tracking the sun position for maximum panel performance and keeps the panel up and out of the way of the rigging. Rotating or tilting the panel just several times a day to obtain an optimum sun angle can increase the panel output by as much as 30%. This means more power from a smaller panel; ideal for the marine environment where space is limited. Our systems are easy to install and remove. In severe weather, simply tilt the panel horizontally or remove one bolt (or quick release pin), unplug two wires and lift the panel off the pole.

120 watt marine solar panels. These kits are designed for the cruising mariner who has modest power requirements or who wishes to supplement the power generated by the engine alternator. This system is ideal for powering electronics, lights, instruments and a small refrigerator.

200 watt marine solar panels. These kits are designed for the cruising mariner who has significant power requirements or who wishes to be completely independent of running the engine alternator while at anchor for extended periods. This system is ideal for powering lights, instruments, computers, refrigerator and autopilot.

For even greater power requirements, our customers have purchased two 100. 120 watt solar systems and mounted them on either side of the stern.

High performance marine grade solar panel
Top-of-pole mounting system
Pole and pole brackets
Charge controller
Wiring
Instructions
All panels include a ten year warranty.

Wondering what size of panel you need? Use our Power Consumption Worksheet to figure out what size panel you need.

Visit our other web pages to get an in depth look at each component in our kits and our Gallery of Installations to see how owners have installed their solar panel systems.

We Will Assist You in Designing a System that Meets Your Specific Needs

We offer complete custom designed kits for our new high output semi-flexible marine solar panels as well as our selection of rigid marine solar panels and our new walk on semi rigid marine solar panels.

DIY solar panels: pros, cons and installation guide

To save money, it’s no surprise that many homeowners are considering “do it yourself”, or DIY, solar. You can install solar panels yourself, but there are some advantages and disadvantages to doing it alone. In this article, we’ll break down the top pros and cons that you need to know about do-it-yourself solar panel systems before making a decision.

Can you install solar panels yourself?

A solar panel system is complicated, which is why so many companies across the U.S. specialize in providing professional solar installation services. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t build your own solar panel system – you can install your own panels, a DIY solar panel setup can be a viable option for some solar shoppers wanting to tap into renewable energy.

According to data from the EnergySage Marketplace, the average cost of going solar for homeowners (after accounting for the federal tax credit) is about 20,650 in 2023. Of that amount, design and installation labor costs contribute about 10% of the total bill; this 10% is what a DIY solar installation will save you since you’ll still have to buy the equipment and components yourself. Regardless, it’s still tempting to look into building your own solar panel installation to save money and be in full control of your home renewable energy project.

Your solar energy system should continue to generate electricity for 25 to 35 years, so you must consider both the upfront costs and the relative financial benefits for all of your solar options. If you buy a home solar kit like the ones for sale at Costco or Home Depot, it may be less expensive per watt, but you aren’t getting the same quality equipment that solar installers can offer you. For the most part, solar installers buy from equipment distributors that don’t sell to the general public – and they’re often getting lower because they’re able to buy in bulk and have access to the best solar panel brands. Going for the more expensive option now may end up saving you money in the long run because you’ll likely have a system built to last a few decades, offsetting your monthly electric bills.

Pros and cons of DIY solar panels and solar panel kits

DIY panels can be a great option for going off the grid and some small home applications. For powering your entire home, however, it may be in your best interest to go with a professional installer.

DIY solar pros and cons

Pros of DIY solar panelsCons of DIY solar panels

Provides more energy independence for homeowners by not being tied to the electricity grid.	Require much more maintenance that would otherwise be covered by an installer warranty.
Effective in powering smaller items like RVs, boats and other appliances	For an entire home, installation may be difficult for an individual without the knowledge and experience of a professional installer.
Allows homeowners to save roughly 10% on the overall cost of installation that would otherwise go towards labor.	DIY installation may be illegal where you live according to local zoning laws.

Most home DIY all-in-one solar panel solar kits (including items like solar batteries, and inverters) are designed for off-grid use, which means you can’t use them and remain connected to your utility. If you’re an average homeowner, going off-grid is probably not in your best interest – being able to access utility-generated electricity is important if your solar array doesn’t produce enough electricity to meet your needs at all times of the day throughout the year.

However, home solar kits can be a good solution if you’re not trying to power your entire home. RVs, boats, and the increasingly popular tiny houses are all opportunities to explore do-it-yourself solar because they are already off-grid and mobile. Storage kits are also a good option for backup to help in the case of a blackout and can contain battery banks and battery systems.

If you want to install a DIY solar project, compare several options beforehand. Grape Solar is a major manufacturer (among others) and offers a few different DIY products and components for both grid-tied and off-grid systems, which you can find more information on below.

DIY solar options

ProductSystem size (watts)System costDollars per wattRetailer link

Grape Solar 400 watt PV solar panel kit	400	588	1.47	Home Depot
Grape Solar 600 watt PV solar panel kit	600	857	1.42	Home Depot
Renogy solar 12-volt/24-volt premium kit	800	1,350	1.69	Renogy
ECO-WORTHY off-grid solar panel kit	800	1,090	1.36	Amazon

When you decide on DIY solar panels, remember that you get what you pay for. A home solar kit may be less expensive, but solar installers offer tremendous value for a relatively little additional cost (remember that 10% figure?). When it comes to installing an expensive electrical system on your property, finding someone who knows what they’re doing can save you both time and money in the long run.

Some of the best solar installers have been in the business for decades – an experience that no amount of online research or DIY guides can replicate. Every state requires that installers are licensed and qualified to install solar, and independent certifications like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar PV Installation Professional Certification ensure that the company you choose to work with has an intimate understanding of the process. Because of this, they can provide experienced insight and help you assess what equipment is the best fit for your property and whether a battery system is right for you.

Your solar installer will also help you complete and file the permits and applications that you need to submit to get your solar power system up and running. This is particularly important because your utility won’t let you connect your system to the grid without a sign-off from a certified electrician.

Because of your solar installer’s experience, they’ll also have a strong understanding of the financial incentives for solar available in your area, and might even be able to help you save more money by finding any rebates and tax incentives that you may have missed. Lastly, it is important to note that many equipment manufacturers will only honor their warranties if a qualified installer installed their equipment. Many installers will also offer an additional warranty to back up their work, too.

The 6-step guide to DIY solar panels: how to install solar panels

The DIY solar panel installation process can be simplified into six major steps:

Purchase your solar equipment and components (solar panels, batteries, inverters, racking, etc.)

Equipment and components including panels can be purchased with help from the EnergySage Buyer’s Guide. You can compare panel, battery, and inverter models based on specs like efficiency, warranties, and more.

Install the racking or mounts for the panels on a roof or the ground

Once you have the necessary equipment, designs, and permits in order, it is time to install your equipment. For roof mount systems, this begins with installing your racking and mounting equipment. To start, mark where your system will be installed, drill where lag bolts will be put in place, caulk the holes, put in lag bolts, and lock rails onto them. For ground mount systems, the steps are similar, only the panels will be installed at the ground level on some type of racking system.

Install your equipment

The first items to install are the solar inverters, which convert the electricity generated by your solar panels into usable electricity. After these are installed using provided bolts, you will need to connect a grounding wire. This is a piece of copper wire across the rails that serves as a safety precaution against lightning strikes and other faults. After this, you can attach your solar panels to your racking equipment.

Connect to your main electrical board

After you have fully installed your panel and system, be sure to schedule an inspection with the local construction authority closest to you. This will ensure that your system complies with local ordinances. Once you pass this inspection, you can apply to connect to the grid. The local utility company will give you a meter to record your power exports.

Get in touch with your utility company and request permission to turn on (PTO) if necessary in your area

From there, turn on your system after you have the proper approval and check how the system is functioning with a solar monitoring app.

Maintenance of DIY solar panel systems

One of the benefits of working with a certified solar installer is the warranty that comes with their service. Solar panel manufacturers provide a range of warranties that guarantee you will have support and coverage in the unlikely event of an issue caused by unusual circumstances, such as large hail or falling tree branches. Power output warranties guarantee that panel performance won’t fall below a specified level over the term of the warranty (usually 25 years). For instance, a manufacturer might provide a warranty to guarantee that peak power output won’t fall below 85% for 25 years.

Frequently asked questions about DIY solar panels

If you’re considering a DIY solar panel kit, but still have concerns about the best options, process, and general cost, check out a few of the most common questions we encounter when talking to solar shoppers:

DIY solar panels may be tempting to install, but their long-term worth may be up for debate due to quality alone. Typically, a solar panel system should continue to generate electricity for 25 to 35 years, so it’s important to invest in quality equipment and a reputable installer. If you purchase a home solar panel kit from a retailer, you may be paying less per watt, but you’re not going to get the same efficiency or quality that professional installers usually offer with their products.

You’ll also likely forgo any warranties that come with your solar panel system, as warranties often only apply when the system is installed by a certified installer. It’s also important to mention that if you still need to rely on some utility power and remain connected to the grid, DIY solar panels are typically not worth it. They are best used for small off-grid applications, like RVs, where a solar generator or solar battery bank can provide you power when you otherwise may not have access.

As a DIYer, you don’t need to be an electrician to install solar panels. It’s certainly not illegal to go the DIY route if you choose to. However, when it comes to installing a costly electrical system on your property, we recommend relying on professionals with technical know-how —their experience is invaluable and it can make a huge difference in the overall quality and performance of your system. Plus, solar installers will help you fill out permits and file important paperwork that you might not otherwise know is required.

You can find reliable DIY solar panels at retailers like Home Depot or from manufacturers like Grape Solar, for between 6,000 to 11,000, depending on your system size needs. For lower cost options, some manufacturers sell DIY solar panels on Amazon for anywhere between 1,600 to 2,500. You may be looking at additional costs if you want to install a solar battery and charge controller system as part of your DIY project.

Should you install solar yourself or hire an installer?

If you’re wavering between a DIY solar system and hiring a solar installer, getting a ballpark estimate for an installation may help you in your decision process. With our Solar Calculator, you can see upfront cost and long-term savings estimates based on your location and roof type to determine if a solar installation is the best choice for you. If you’re looking to get quotes from local contractors today, be sure to check out the quote comparison platform in the EnergySage Marketplace.

reading on EnergySage

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Solar Panel Kit: Ultimate Guide to Off-Grid Power Solutions!

Solar panel kits have become increasingly popular as more people pursue outdoor adventures and RV lifestyles. These kits provide convenient off-grid power for charging electronics, running mini appliances, and powering recreational equipment wherever you go.

While solar technology offers compelling benefits, the higher upfront costs also raise questions about whether these kits are really worth the investment.

This guide will explore the pros and cons of solar panel kits, evaluate how to calculate the payback period based on your needs, and discuss the other benefits beyond cost savings to help you decide if they are truly worth it.

With some research, you can make an informed choice about whether or not going solar via a kit is reasonable and worthwhile for your home and budget.

What are solar panel kits, and how do they work?

A solar panel kit consists of the necessary components to set up solar panels for generating electricity. It typically includes solar panels, an inverter, racks or mounting hardware, cables, battery groups and junction boxes.

When sunlight hits the solar panels, photons excite the electrons in the materials, allowing the electrons to flow through the material to produce direct current electricity. Multiple solar panels are wired together and then connected to an inverter, which converts the DC power to alternating current (AC) electricity that can power homes and businesses or be added back to the electrical grid.

The mounting racks and hardware secure the solar panels in place, usually on roof tops or the ground, to maximize sunlight exposure throughout the day and year. With the right sized kit and enough sunlight, solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate electricity bills.

Advantages of solar panel kits

Solar panel kit offers significant benefits for those wanting power off the grid in a convenient, eco-friendly, and sustainable manner. Foremost, their portability means solar energy can go wherever you do, as each kit contains folding solar panels, lithium batteries, inverters, charge controllers and all necessary wiring to generate self-sufficient solar power. Whether camping in the mountains, boating on the lake, hiking the trail or living in an off-grid vehicle, a solar kit provides plug-and-play renewable energy.

Statistics show the potential impact of these kits. For example, the average camper relies on fossil fuels for 97% of their energy needs, but a solar kit could reduce that to zero while providing up to 800 charges for handheld devices. In RVs, solar panels can offset up to 100% of energy usage and 3,000 per year in fuel costs for some owners. And for off-grid homes, a sizable solar array has powered ahouse for up to 15 years without grid connection or permanent on-site maintenance.

Solar power kits also offer an environmentally sustainable source of power. By harnessing sunlight instead of burning petroleum or propane, you decrease your carbon footprint, eliminate pollution emissions, and move closer to energy independence. Over their lifetime, the energy used to manufacture solar panels can often be offset by the clean energy they produce. And of course, solar energy is 100% renewable, with no risk of fuel shortages.

Beyond convenience, affordability and eco-friendliness, solar panels provide seamless visibility into your energy usage through built-in monitoring systems and charge controllers. You retain greater control over costs and can optimize performance by adjusting settings like charge levels and battery thresholds as needed for your equipment and priorities.

Drawbacks of solar panel kits

Solar panel kits can be a convenient renewable energy solution, but they also have some significant drawbacks that limit their practicality. These kits tend to be more expensive than traditional power sources, and they typically provide lower power outputs due to their smaller size and components. They are also completely dependent on sunlight, so they cannot produce power at night or in poor weather conditions.

While solar kits may save money on energy costs in the long run and provide supplemental power during blackouts, their high upfront costs, limited capacity, and reliance on solar energy can make them impractical for high-power needs or in locations without optimal sunlight. However, as solar technology improves and battery storage capabilities increase, solar panels are becoming more viable and versatile alternatives for powering homes and businesses with renewable energy.

When used appropriately and combined with other power sources if needed, Solar energy system kits can be a sustainable solution, but their drawbacks should be considered carefully based on individual requirements and circumstances. With a deeper understanding of both the benefits and limitations, these kits can provide eco-friendly and cost-effective power for many applications.

Key factors to consider before investing in solar panel kits

Allocate your budget properly to get the right balance of quality components, power capability, and cost savings for your needs. Do thorough research comparing specifications and reviews of different kits to end up with an investment that meets your requirements sustainably and affordably.

With some upfront analysis of these key factors, you can choose solar panels that will work well and last for many years to come.

How much does a solar panel kit cost?

The cost of a solar panel kit can range significantly depending on the brand, type of panels included, total power output (wattage), number of panels, and additional included components like an inverter, charge controller, cables, etc.

Starting from 249, Growatt 100W Solar Panel comes with great portability, lightweight and foldable design, and an easy to carry protective case for on-the-go power needs. (Note that you should pair the panels with VITA 550 Portable Power Station or other premium models for optimal use, because the solar panel alone can’t work independantly.)

With an included sturdy kickstand, the panel provides simple and stable setup for outdoor solar charging anytime and anywhere.

Featuring 22% solar conversion efficiency, this high-performance panel is able to capture more of the sun’s energy to fast charge your devices more quickly. It also offers durable and weather-resistant construction with an ETFE coating and IP67 water resistance rating, built to withstand the elements and demanding use.

Pairing with the portable power stations, the solar panel combination is ideal for charging while traveling, camping or during power outages. The solar panel provides up to 200W of solar output power to charge the portable power station, meanwhile the stored energy in portable power station can be used to charge the smartphones, laptops and more. With standard MC4 connectors, the solar panel will work with most third-party solar charging devices, maximizing compatibility and connection options.

Built to last through years of heavy and unpredictable use, this panel ensures you’ll always have access to solar power whenever it’s needed most.

Conclusion

Solar panels provide an exciting opportunity for homeowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and camping communities to adopt renewable energy on their own terms.

By following some basic guidelines for choosing the right kit for your needs, you’ll be harnessing the power of the sun before you know it. Do your analysis, make an informed choice, and get started using sustainable solar energy today!

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Sources:

https://www.solarelectricsupply.com/solar-panel-mounts/roof-mounts/s-5/s-5-pv-kit
https://www.custommarineproducts.com/kits-solar-system-kits.html
https://news.energysage.com/diy-solar-panels-pros-and-cons/
https://growattportable.com/blogs/news/solar-panel-kit

Complete Marine Solar System Kits. Solar pv kits