Looking for the best 250 watt solar panel?
Whether it’s your first solar panel system or you’re looking to add more power, you’ve landed on the right page.
Solar panels are one of the most amazing ways to generate electricity, there are so many incredible benefits.
In fact, the sun’s energy is the most abundant energy source on the planet!
And it’s completely free to use without creating any nasty pollution.
I’m sure you already know the benefits, it’s why you’re reading this article…
On this page, you’ll find a complete in-depth guide plus reviews of the best 250 watt solar panels on the market today.
So let’s dive in.
What Can a 250 Watt Solar Panel Be Used For?
Wondering whether a 250w solar panel is right for you?
Before we get too far into this article, let’s talk about the best uses for this type of product. After all, there’s no point in reading any further if a 100 watt or 200 watt solar panel could do a better job, right?
250-watt solar panels offer a very varied use. That being said, they are on the larger end of the spectrum in the market. Traditional rigid solar panels of this size are favored for house and build rooftops where there is plenty of space and a high power requirement.
Many panels you see on houses around the country will be 250 watts or bigger. Due to the size, it might not be great for small vehicles or sheds that have small surface areas.
Larger vehicles such as trucks, RVs, and boats often used 250 watt flexible solar panels for decent power output on uneven surfaces.
Of course, if you are looking for a 250 watt portable solar panel that folds down then you can enjoy these high-powered products with amazing convenience. They’re an efficient way to generate electricity when car camping, adventuring, at the beach, and much more!
What Can a 250 Watt Solar Panel Run?
With a 250 watt solar panel, you can run most portable devices and a large range of small to medium size home appliances. The best way to do this is in combination with a battery and power inverter.
You use the solar panel to charge your battery which can then power your appliances via the power inverter. Just like plugging into the mains electric in the wall at home. With a system like this, you could easily run refrigerators, TVs, games consoles, lighting, slow cookers, laptops, computers, fans, stereo, or blender.
Beware, if you are trying to run electronics directly from a solar panel then its performance will be reliant upon the sun. In theory, you could run devices with a wattage rating of 200 or less but the electricity supply would be unreliable. Directly from a solar panel (if it has USB ports) you could charge up your portable gadgets like smartphones and tablets.
Best 250 Watt Solar Panel Reviews
1. MEIGONGJU Flexible Monocrystalline 250W Solar Panel
Starting off this list of 250-watt solar panel reviews is a neat flexible option that can be used in most off-grid power situations.
This solar panel uses deep black monocrystalline cells to deliver brilliant efficiency of well over 20%. You’ll be able to generate plenty of energy for your leisure battery or even connect to a power station such as the Jackery Explorer. In direct sunlight, you’ll be able to produce 14 amps of electricity an hour or 70 – 80 in a day!
The effective performance is coupled with a flexible design for you to use almost anywhere. You could happily mount it on the roof of a house or shed. Plus it’s ideal for vehicles with curved surfaces. The lightweight and slim nature also allows for stealthy use or even hang it on a wall or tent.
It really excels in any scenario.
You don’t have to worry about bad weather either thanks to PET and TPT covering on the solar cells. All the while, the junction box is completely waterproof for use outdoors.
Pros:
- Flexible
- Lightweight and slim
- Efficient conversion
- Completely weatherproof
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Not as durable as rigid panel
- No charge controller included
2. DOKIO 220w Portable Solar Panel Kit with Controller
Next up is a handy foldable solar panel from DOKIO.
With this neat system, you’ll benefit from a complete kit that includes a 220W panel, solar charge controller, and multiple adaptors. I really like the clean red and black design and useful features like a carry case, handles, and pockets for your cables.
While the solar panel doesn’t quite deliver 250 watts it makes up for this in a number of ways. Firstly, the folding design means you can carry it with you on all your adventures. Store it in a car, RV, or van on your camping trips, plus even take it hiking or a day at the beach.
The unique thing with this is the multiple adaptors included. They allow you to hook up to most portable power stations to top up your electric supply. You also get an essential charge controller which enables you to use it with a 12V leisure battery safely. It’s super easy to install as well thanks to red and black alligator clips which you could use to connect to your RV power supply instantly.
It’s a really useful portable panel for your adventures.
Pros:
- Foldable and portable
- Multiple adaptors for power station
- Charge controller and alligator clips
- Carry case and handle
- Monocrystalline cells
Cons:
- 220 W
- Not permanently mountable
3. ECO-WORTHY 1kWh A Day Solar Panel Kit
This dual panel kit enables you to generate 1000 watts a day, more than 80Amp!
You’ll love this completely rigid solar panel system which is ready for rooftop mounting on permanent buildings or even vehicles. At first, I was a bit unsure about this product but once I looked a little closer, I was sold.
In the ECO-WORTHY kit you get two 120W solar panels, solar charge controller, mounting brackets, cables, and connectors. It’s all the key components to add solar to your off-grid electricity supply.
Enjoy awesome efficiency with the monocrystalline cells which are protected by corrosion-resistant aluminum frames and tempered glass. These should last you well over a decade.
The included solar charge controller is rated for 30A which is more than enough to comfortably cope with the energy you produce for both 12V and 24V batteries. Its sleek design is easy to use with an LCD screen to monitor power. Adding to this, two USB ports allow you to charge cell phones directly from the controller.
This really is a brilliant kit to get your solar journey off to a fantastic start.
Pros:
- Complete kit
- Includes charge controller
- Aluminum frame and tempered glass
- Monocrystalline cells
Cons:
- Not portable
- 240 W
4. Kelunis USB 250W Solar Panel Kit
If you’re keen on a solar panel of exactly 250 watts that is easy to install then check this option from Kelunis.
What you get here is a flexible solar panel that you can quickly mount on any surface using metal ring holes. This means if you want to use it for car camping you could throw it up in your vehicle in seconds or bolt it to a caravan roof.
I’m a big fan of its simplicity, a single flexible 250w solar panel that is lightweight and low profile. This allows you to hook up and charge your leisure or vehicle battery in any situation.
You can use this for leisure purposes or just to maintain a vehicle battery. That’s handy!
Built-in junction box and wiring offer complete waterproofing with quick-connect MC4 cables. You can effortlessly plug in your charge controller of choice and enjoy the sun’s energy. Monocrystalline solar cells and TPT back sheet deliver a highly efficient 21.6% conversion rate. Although, I do feel that the plastic covering was overly reflective which will reduce power output.
A lightweight flexible 250W solar panel with great versatility.
Pros:
- 250 Watts
- Monocrystalline cells
- Flexible and lightweight
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Not that durable
- Too reflective
5. WEIZE 200 Watt 12 Volt Solar Panel Starter Kit
If you feel that 200 watts will do the job then there this opens up a whole new range of products for you to choose from. Of course, you could add more panels in series if you want to increase power output.
This starter kit from WEIZE is one of the best around when it comes to quality and performance. The rigid solar panels use monocrystalline cells which make for industry-leading efficiency. You’ll be able to start generating over 500Wh of energy on sunny days. Plenty of capacity to keep your batteries topped up!
The build quality is exceptional too with an anodized aluminum frame that holds tempered glass. It’s completely weatherproof even in high wind, rain, and snow. Remember to clear snow off if you want to keep generating power though!! This industrial level kit is as happy on a vehicle as it is on a rooftop.
Included is a 30A PWM solar charger that enables you to hook up to leisure batteries safely while keeping costs down. You won’t have to worry about overcharging or reverse polarity. Installation is a breeze thanks to the predrilled holes and mounting brackets. All you need to add is your leisure battery and power inverter of choice.
A high-performing and long-lasting solar kit.
Pros:
- Monocrystalline cells
- Includes charge controller
- Durable aluminum and tempered glass
- Brilliant efficiency
- High quality
Cons:
- 200 Watts
- Not portable
6. Renogy 50 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel (Compact Design)
If you’re happy to connect multiple solar panels together you could build your 250W solar system with this option.
Renogy continues to deliver outstanding products in the solar industry. These compact panels allow you to build your perfect off-grid power setup. They could be particularly helpful if you have limited mounting space or want to slowly add more over time.
You could happily use these on boats, vans, cabins, or tiny homes. Once mounted in place you can be confident they’re last for decades. Of course, monocrystalline cells deliver superior performance while aluminum frames and tempered glass make for epic durability. High transparency glass, weatherproof, and impact-resistant – everything you need for a solar panel.
Wherever you live or travel, you can set and forget this system that can withstand high wind, rain, and snow – even the junction box is IP65 rated waterproof. Installation shouldn’t be too tricky either with well-placed predrilled holes in the frame to use with z-mount brackets, pole, or tile mounts.
Build your ideal 250W solar system!
Pros:
- Compact size
- Durable design
- Reputable brand
- Weatherproof
- Connect in series
Cons:
- Needs multiple panels
- No charge controller included
- Not portable
7. Topsolar Flexible Solar Panels
If you like the idea of building your off-grid power using multiple panels but need a flexible style then Topsolar has you covered.
These are ideal if you have a curved surface on a boat, trailer, truck, or anywhere else. Plus, they are some of the very best solar panels available on the market. You can buy them in 50W, 100W, and 200W options along with white or black coloring.
Deep black monocrystalline solar cells create a highly efficient performance in any condition. You won’t have a problem with hot spots in variable light due to the bypass diodes which help to generate smooth power.
For a flexible solar panel, the durability of the product is quite outstanding. The ETFE covering is used for higher light transmission while the TPT backing enables quick heat dissipation. All of this combines for complete waterproofing in any weather. Plus it’s effortless to wipe clean.
Create you 250 Watt flexible solar panel with 12v, 24v, and 48v batteries.
Pros:
- High quality
- Monocrystalline cells
- High efficiency
- Waterproof
- Multiple sizes
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons:
- Not a single 250w panel
- No charge controller included
8. Newpowa 210W Solar Panel Monocrystalline
Let’s finish up this list of the best 250 watt solar panel reviews with a single rigid panel that might suit your needs.
Coming in at 210 watts it does fall a little short, but if you can make do then it’s a top-quality product.
This single rigid solar panel offers high efficiency and can be mounted on a rooftop, RV, boat, trailer, camper, shed, or any flat surface. In terms of energy generation, it will give you around 12Amps an hour in good sunlight or around 60Amps a day. Of course, this will be reduced during cloudy days. Bypass diodes in the junction box help to smooth power flow during variable light and shading. This stops ‘hot spotting’ you can get from broken clouds or sunlight passing through trees.
The monocrystalline cells cover the unit while anti-rust aluminum makes for a durable robust frame. Predrilled into the frame are mounting holes so you can install it as soon as it arrives. In addition, the junction box and connectors are completely waterproof up to IP67 rating so you don’t have to worry about harsh weather conditions. To be honest, they can take quite a beating from the weather.
Pros:
- Single panel
- Rigid and durable design
- Easy mounting holes
- Bypass diodes
- Weatherproof
- Monocrystalline cells
Cons:
- Only 210 Watts
- Not portable
- No tempered glass
Education: Choosing a 250 Watt Solar Panel
Let’s take a look at the important elements to consider when buying a 250 watt solar panel.
Panel Type
One of the first decisions is what type of solar panel you are looking for. There are 3 different styles which all have specific qualities. In the products reviewed above, you’ll find rigid solar panels, flexible solar panels, and portable solar panels. Here’s an explanation of the differences:
Rigid Solar Panel – This is a traditional solar panel that offers the best combination of performance and durability. It’s what you’ll most commonly see on house rooftops. They are made up of solar cells mounted in an aluminum frame and a sheet of glass. This makes for decades of durability, but makes them heavy and not portable.
Flexible Solar Panel – A bendable panel is a happy medium between size, weight, durability, and performance. They are incredibly adaptable a can be mounted to uneven and curved surfaces often found on boats, RVs, trailers, and vans. The solar cells are wrapped in ETFE plastic for brilliant waterproofing and light transmission.
Portable Solar Panel – These you can carry around with you in a vehicle, in a bag, or on foot. Generally, the best feature is the ability to fold down the panel into a more manageable size. Many of them are designed to work directly with portable power stations. You do lose a bit of durability in exchange for convenience. They can’t be mounted permanently on buildings and vehicles.
Included Components
It’s important to understand the different parts of a solar panel system and what’s included in your purchase. To use solar power you require a solar panel, charge controller, battery, and inverter. Some solar panels come with a charge controller which enables you to safely charge a battery and protect from overcharging and reverse charging. Check if your product comes with a controller, it is an essential component.
You will also need to have a battery, such as a deep-cycle leisure battery, and a power inverter. Generally, you will have to buy these separately.
Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline
Did you know that there are different types of solar cells?
Take the time to understand the difference as it directly relates to performance. You’ll find two different options – monocrystalline and polycrystalline.
Monocrystalline is the better of the two thanks to superior conversion efficiency in absorbing sunlight and creating electric energy. You can recognize it by the deep black color of the solar panel.
Polycrystalline is the cheaper option but offers reduced performance. It’s simply not as efficient. You can identify it by the blue color of the solar cells.
In my honest opinion, I’d always opt for the black monocrystalline solar panels for their optimum performance. Plus modern technology means it’s getting cheaper and cheaper. It’s actually not that much more expensive anymore and is certainly worth it in the long run. After all, the sun’s energy is free!
Size and Space
The space you have available for your panels will determine how big you can go. 250w solar panels can get pretty big measuring well over a meter in length. This might be impractical for smaller areas and vehicles. Be sure to measure up the area you have available and check the dimensions of the product.
Pro tip: You could always mount multiple smaller solar panels to help add more power in awkward spaces.
Durability
Fact: solar panels should last a long time, the best can last decades. If you’re keen to reduce energy bills through solar then durability should be top of your list. In the long run, you are looking to save money by using the sun’s free energy. You will require an initial investment but after that expenses should be low to nothing. But if you have a poorly made product you will lose any savings you make having to fix and replace your equipment.
Look for highly durable materials and features such as anti-rust aluminum, tempered glass, and high waterproof ratings.
Ease of Installation
Finally, if you are not experienced with electrics you’ll want something that’s easy to install and manage. Many products are now much easier to set up thanks to predrilled holes and mounting systems.
Portable solar panels are even easier to use as they are plug and play meaning you can start generating electricity in seconds without the need for tools and professionals.
How Many 250 Watt Solar Panels Do I Need?
Ok, are you trying to work out how many panels you need for your energy requirements? It might be time to do a little simple maths.
All things being perfect each panel could produce 250 watts of energy each hour (250Wh) – that relies on everything being optimal, which it never is… on average you’ll be able to get about 14 or 15 Amps per hour (ah) for 5 hours a day so 70 – 80 amps a day.
That means with one 250 watt solar panel you could keep a 100Ah battery charged through a sunny day as long as it’s not fully depleted.
If you want to upscale and add more power to your system you can simply multiply these numbers by 2x, 3x, and so on. For example, you’d need four 250 watt solar panels for a 1 kilowatt solar system.
How Much Space Do You Need For 250W Solar Panels?
Solar panels vary in surface area depending on design. On average a 250w solar panel measures 140 x 100 cms or 55 x 40 inches. They are quite large in size so make sure you have enough space to mount one (or multiple).
For a house roof, you should have plenty of space for solar panels. If you are planning to mount it on a vehicle then ensure you have enough room otherwise choose a smaller size.
To help you work it out, I’ve done some calculations. Assuming each panel is 18 square feet in size here is a table of installation space needed for multiple panels:
| Watts | Number of 250W PANELS | Space Required (SQ. FT.) |
| 250W | 1 | 18 |
| 500W | 2 | 36 |
| 1kW | 4 | 72 |
| 2kW | 8 | 144 |
| 3kW | 12 | 216 |
| 5kW | 20 | 360 |
| 10kW | 40 | 720 |
Obviously, the amount of roof space varies from home to home, but the average 2 story house offers around 1500 square feet of surface area.
Installing A Solar Panel
Once you’ve bought your solar panel you’ll need to know how to install it all. Once you understand the different components of any off-grid solar kit, it’s not too difficult to install. Here is a quick step-by-step guide to help you understand the process. These steps are best if you are installing on a vehicle, shed, or similar structure. If you are not sure please get the help of a professional. For a home installation please use professionals.
Step 1. Measure out where you need to drill holes corresponding to your panels predrilled hole and mounting system.
Step 2. Carefully drill your hole before fixing the solar panel in place using the provides bolts and nuts. Makes sure you get a tight and secure finish, particularly if you are installing on a vehicle.
Step 3. Connect the solar charge controller to your leisure battery with the corresponding red (positive) and black (negative) cables and terminals. Always do this before connecting the solar panel.
Step 4. Connect your solar panel to the solar charge controller. Your system should now be ready to start charging your battery once you switch the controller on.
Step 5. To draw power hook up a power inverter to convert the DC battery power to AC electrics which will run your appliances.
Step 6. Enjoy free electricity from the sun.
FAQ
How many batteries do I need for a 250 watt solar panel?
You can happily use one 100Ah battery for a 250 watt solar panel. This should provide a nice balance of energy storage that can be recharged over the course of a sunny day. You could also use two 50Ah batteries or two 100Ah batteries. Be aware that one 250 watt solar panel will be able to deliver between 70-80Ah of energy on a long sunny day when choosing your batteries.
What Charge Controller Do You Need For a 250W Solar Panel?
A 250W solar kit would produce a maximum of 20.8 amps from a 12V system. In reality, they are not 100% efficient so you can actually generate around 14 to 15 amps. You should be fine with a 20A charge controller, a 30A controller will work well too, plus give you the ability to add more power in the future.
What power inverter do you need for a 250W Solar Panel?
This depends on the batteries you are using and the appliances you want to run. For the average off-grid system with a 250W panel, I would recommend a 1000 watt power inverter. This will allow you to run most devices and small to medium home appliances including smartphones laptops, computers, TVs, games consoles, refrigerators, lighting, fans, and even a slow cooker.
If you want to know how many watts you will draw, add up the wattage rating of all the electronics you want to run at the same time. This will give you a better understanding of your energy requirements.
How long do solar panels last?
Technology has come a long way and the very newest solar panels could be expected to last as long as 40 or 50 years. Many warranties offer a 25 year guarantee of power output. This is for the very top rigid solar panels designed for house rooftops.
Portable and flexible solar panels might last you a decade depending on how often you use them.
Final Words
Well, that’s it, if you’ve read this far you are an expert in 250 watt solar panels.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article. As you’ll see there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to 250W solar panel systems.
Clearly, you should take the time to pick something that fits your requirements whether it’s a house, cabin, vehicle, shed, or anything else.
The best thing you can do is pick one of the best rated 250 watt solar panels above with the features to fit your need.
And I sincerely hope you enjoy all the amazing benefits of using this ultimate renewable energy source.
Hi, I’m Michael, the editor here at Watt A Lot.
After years of experience with off-grid power like solar panels, inverters, and batteries I decided I should share my hands-on knowledge with you. In my professional and personal life, I’ve needed to find electrical solutions for remote situations from owning a food truck, to running events at the top of mountains, to my converted campervan. So whether you’re looking for the best products or fixing an electrical problem, you can rest assured my advice comes from real hands-on experience.
