JA Solar Panel 385W $129

[cavehugefade]

Hello All, I am new here and also new to solar, I would like to start of by creating a system to pull out and use in case the grid is not functioning. I found some surplus panels within driving distance and was hoping that more experienced people could weigh in on whether or not is worth it to pick up 2 or more.

At this point I am only considering the panels, I can get the rest of the components to make a functioning system after I get some panels.

2 385W panels is an overkill since I just want to charge phones, computers, etc, but would appreciate to be able to the push the system if necessary.

Thanks for your help

https://southjersey.craigslist.org/hvo/d/glassboro-385w-solar-panel-129/7786408897.html#

 

[timselectric]

You should match the solar panels to your SCC (Solar Charge Controller)
The other way around is harder.

 

[robbob2112]

Don't buy anything until you have a plan. The panels or some like it will be there in a week, a month, or a year.

Define what your usage is - i.e. how many watthours will you use. Decide if you will ever grow to a larger system or if this is a 1 and done thing.

At the minumum you will need a panel, MPPT, fuses, wiring and a battery. If you have any devices that require 120vac to work you would need an inverter.

For a super simple setup with low wattage like what you are describing 12v would work fine. But if you ever want to grow it or use it for larger items that is where more decisions and money cmes in.

 

[cavehugefade]

Thanks for weighing in, my plan is to have something in case of an emergency, this system will most likely sit in my garage 99% of the time, I however would prefer to purchase more quality panels than what I can get from temu / amazon.

I figure 2 of those panels will work with Victron - 150V, 45 amp, 12/24/36/48-Volt SCC, for my inverter I will use the BougeRV 2000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter

I will also be getting 12v batteries, wiring, and fuses.

Any thoughts on the solar panels themselves?