Lightweight Solar Panels

Slimline, Lightweight Solar Panels for Weight-Sensitive Installs

Every kilogram on the roof counts against payload, fuel use and handling. These lightweight solar panels use Sunman eArc flexible technology, so you can add solar charging to a caravan, RV, 4WD, boat or tiny home without the bulk of a framed glass module. The range runs from a compact 9V 85W panel and a narrow 100W model up to a high-output 430W panel. That covers slim roof strips through to large, flat surfaces.

All panels in this collection are flexible. If you want to compare other bendable options, browse the full flexible solar panels range.

Why Choose eArc Lightweight Panels

eArc panels have a thin 2mm profile and a toughened surface rated to 2400 pascals for wind and load. They can follow gently curved roofs, hatches and canopies where rigid panels cannot sit flush. Key features include:

• Clean Energy Council (CEC) accreditation for a lightweight, flexible panel format
• Monocrystalline solar cells for strong output per square metre
• Sealed junction boxes to resist moisture-induced corrosion
• Bypass diodes to reduce output loss from partial shading
• Voltage, current and electroluminescence (EL) testing during production to identify cell defects
• Up to 10-year product warranty on buildings or 5 years on vehicles

Narrow and Slim Solar Panel Options

Caravan and motorhome roofs are often crowded with hatches, air-conditioners and awnings. The Sunman 100W eArc Narrow Flexible Solar Panel suits slim gaps between roof fittings. The 200W Black Square model fills wider, squarer spaces. Several models, including the 85W, 175W and 200W, have the junction box mounted underneath. This keeps the top surface clean and allows the cable to pass straight through the roof for a tidier, low-profile install.

Sizing and Selection Tips

Use these points to match a panel to your roof and power system:

Measure the usable roof space first. Check each model's length and width against the clear area between hatches and fittings. On tight roofs, a narrow panel or several smaller panels can make better use of the space than one large panel.

Match the panel voltage to your controller. The 9V 85W panel is best wired in series with matching panels to raise the array voltage. Higher-wattage models such as the 320W and 430W should be checked for Voc and Vmp against your MPPT controller's input limits.

Size for your daily energy use. Add up your daily watt-hours, then allow for winter sun and shading. For a 12V touring setup, 175W to 230W suits moderate loads. The 320W and 430W panels suit larger lithium systems running fridges, inverters or extended off-grid stays.

Plan the mounting method. Flexible panels are commonly bonded with adhesive and need a clean, suitable surface. Follow our flexible and lightweight solar panel mounting guide for surface preparation, adhesive choice and cable entry.

If weight is less critical, compare rigid and portable options across our off grid solar panels range.

Lighten Your Roof Load Today

Choose the eArc panel that fits your roof, and you can cut weight while adding CEC-accredited, EL-tested solar output for your next trip. Browse the range above, compare dimensions and wattage, and order the panel that suits your setup.