RV solar installation is the process of adding solar panels and the supporting electrical equipment needed to collect, store, monitor and use energy in a recreational vehicle. A complete system may include panels, a charge controller, lithium batteries, an inverter or inverter/charger, monitoring, overcurrent protection and more than one charging source.

JHC Solar helps RV owners plan power systems around the RV, the way it is used and the appliances that matter most. Call (816) 695-5306 or contact JHC Solar to discuss a project.

What should an RV solar system include?

Solar panels are only one part of the system. A project may include:

  • Roof-mounted or deployable solar panels
  • A compatible solar charge controller
  • Lead-acid or lithium battery storage
  • An inverter or inverter/charger for AC appliances
  • Battery and system monitoring
  • Shore-power and generator charging
  • DC-to-DC alternator charging when appropriate
  • Properly selected fuses, breakers, disconnects, busbars and cable

The correct combination depends on the existing RV electrical system and the owner’s energy goals. Adding panel wattage without checking the controller, battery bank and wiring can create an unbalanced system.

How JHC Solar plans an installation

The planning conversation starts with real energy use. Important questions include:

  1. What RV do you own, and is it a 30-amp or 50-amp coach?
  2. Which appliances must operate away from shore power?
  3. How many days do you want to camp without hookups?
  4. What battery, converter, inverter, generator and solar equipment is already installed?
  5. How much roof and compartment space is available?

A system for lights, fans and device charging is different from one designed around a microwave, residential refrigerator, mobile office or air-conditioning load.

Roof solar panels or deployable panels?

Roof-mounted panels generate whenever sunlight reaches the roof and do not require daily setup. Deployable panels can be moved into better sun when the RV is parked in shade. Some owners use both. Cable routing, storage, theft protection and setup time should be considered alongside wattage.

Watch an RV solar system walkthrough

Frequently asked questions

How many solar panels does an RV need?

The answer depends on daily energy use, available roof area, battery capacity, travel season and charging goals. Start with an appliance and energy audit, then size the array. Read How Many Solar Panels Do You Need for an RV?.

Can RV solar run an air conditioner?

It can in a system designed for the air conditioner’s starting and running demand, but solar wattage alone does not determine run time. Battery capacity, inverter output, weather, temperature and other loads all matter.

Is professional RV solar installation necessary?

Some owners can install a documented kit. Professional help is often appropriate for roof penetrations, high-current battery wiring, AC distribution changes, large inverters, alternator charging or complex integrations.

Can I finance an RV solar project?

RV solar financing information is available for qualifying JHC Solar projects through Greenlite Capital. Financing is subject to approval and applicable terms.

Start with the power you want to use

Bring your RV year, make and model; photos of the roof and electrical compartments; existing equipment details; and a list of must-run appliances. JHC Solar is based at 12412 Brooklyn Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64146. Request a consultation or call (816) 695-5306.