As the solar power industry continues to grow, more and more industries are experimenting with solar panel systems to supply energy. Based on the fact that different sizes of solar panel systems have different energy supply capabilities, they are generally used for different applications. In this article, we will introduce you to one of the most common solar panel system sizes – the 200W solar panel – and what devices it can power.

1. What is a 200W solar panel system?

Before recognizing what a 200W solar panel system is, we first need to know that most solar panel systems on the market are measured in watts. The method of measuring the size of a solar panel system by the relevant international organizations is as follows:

Experimenters will be a certain size of solar panels will be completely exposed to the intensity of 1000W / ㎡ artificial light source, and then record its power generation in an hour and the amount of electricity can produce the value.

This is why the solar panel system on the market will be measured by the wattage value of its size, for example, 200W solar panel system represents the system in the hour to receive 1000W / ㎡ light intensity under the premise of its rated power generation of 200W.

2. How much energy can a 200W solar panel system produce?

According to the above definition of 200W solar panels, the production energy of a 200W solar panel system can be calculated using the following formula under the light premise of 1000W/㎡ (also known as peak insolation) light intensity:

Production energy = solar panel system size x peak sunlight hours

For example, in areas where the peak sunshine duration can reach 5h, a 200W solar panel system can produce 200W x 5h = 1000Wh of energy, while in areas where the peak sunshine duration is only 2h, a 200W solar panel system can only produce 200W x 2h = 400Wh of energy.

3. What equipment can a 200W solar panel system power?

After learning how to calculate the power generation of solar panels, according to the peak sunshine hours of your house location, you can calculate the appliances that your 200W solar panel system can power, the specific calculation formula is as follows:

Rated power of appliances capable of supplying energy = energy produced by the 200W solar panel system ÷ number of hours appliances need to supply energy

For example, under the average sunshine level, a set of 200W solar panel system is able to produce 800-1000Wh of energy per day, and the appliance needs to supply energy for 8h per day, then according to the above formula, the maximum power value of the appliance should be in the range of 100W-125W.

Based on this calculation, we can roughly deduce that a 200W solar panel system is not capable of powering larger appliances or electrical systems. However, for light bulbs, cell phones, laptops, small refrigerators, and even RVs and cabins with fewer electrical appliances, a 200W solar panel system is a good choice.

4. What are some other questions about 200W solar panels?

4.1 How to choose the right 200W solar panel system?

Although a 200W solar panel system has a limited ability to supply energy, it is a good choice as a source of energy for a small power supply system or for homeowners who are trying solar power for the first time. This is why 200W solar panel systems are not uncommon in the market, so for homeowners who are interested in installing it, how to choose the right 200W solar panel system can be selected by the following reference factors:

Conversion efficiency, is the efficiency of this solar panel system to convert light energy into electricity, its main influencing factor is the type of solar panel, the efficiency range ranges from 15% to 25%. For some homeowners whose properties are located in areas with poor sunlight resources, solar panels with higher conversion efficiencies can help produce more electricity during shorter periods of peak sunlight.

As well as the durability of the supporting parts, the length of after-sales warranty, the price, and so on. You can refer to the above factors when planning your installation to choose the most suitable brand and installer.

4.2 Can I use a 200W solar panel system to power a campervan? What about for small boats?

For caravans and small boats with fewer electrical appliances, a 200W solar panel system is definitely the most suitable size. Its compact design, taking up no more than 12 square feet, ensures it doesn’t occupy much roof or boat space. Additionally, with the ability to orient campers and boats for optimal sun exposure almost 24/7, the power generation capacity is maximized. This efficiency is crucial for powering essential equipment, such as a hot stamping machine, which can be used for personalizing gear or creating custom designs on the go, enhancing the overall experience.

In summary, a 200W solar panel system is capable of powering caravans and small boats, but it is recommended that you carry storage batteries or a small generator with you in case of inclement weather.

4.3 What are the benefits of using a 200W solar panel system?

Small size and high portability: Since a 200W solar panel system is not very large, it has a smaller footprint and weight, which greatly increases its portability and makes it ideal for family camping.

Lower cost: Compared to a multi-kilowatt solar panel system, a 200W solar panel system requires fewer solar panels, making it less costly and suitable for homeowners who are trying out solar power for the first time.

Easier maintenance and repairs: Solar panels may accumulate dust and leaves on the glass surface as they are used, and for larger solar power systems, you may need to hire a professional to do both cleaning and overhauling, whereas for a small 200W solar panel system, many of the post-cleaning and inspections can be done on your own, which saves some of the cost of post-maintenance. This can save some of the post maintenance cost.