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    Van solar autonomy

    Energy 3 h 12 slides

    Size and maintain a 12V system

    Learning objectives

    By the end of this module you'll be able to:

    • Calculate your real electricity consumption (Wh/day = Σ Power × Hours) before buying anything.
    • Apply your area's PVGIS coefficient to size the panel power (Wp = Consumption / coeff).
    • Tell a battery's nominal capacity from its usable capacity according to DoD (50% AGM/GEL, 85% LiFePO4).
    • Choose between MPPT and PWM and put a figure on the production gain (15-30%).
    • Select the right type of panel (rigid, flexible, portable) for your roof and the season.
    • Diagnose the 5 most common solar faults in a van.

    Slide 1 of 12

    Introduction

    Solar in a van: never run out of power again

    Module 6 — Solar autonomy | Azimut AI Nomad

    A solar panel is the first upgrade 80% of vanlifers make after their first trip. But if it is badly sized, it creates a dangerous false sense of security. This module gives you the exact calculations for your profile and your region.

    540 Wh/day

    Typical consumption of a couple in an equipped van

    200-400 Wp

    Recommended panel power for all 4 seasons

    PVGIS

    Official source for the solar coefficient

    Slide 2 of 12

    Sources

    Your van has 3 ways to recharge

    Alternator, solar or mains

    SourcePowerWhen it worksCost
    Alternator (driving)20-60AWhile drivingIncluded
    Solar panel (MPPT)VariableWhen there is sun200-1,500 EUR
    Mains 230V20-30ACampsite/motorhome area0-5 EUR/night

    Long stays (>2 days): only solar keeps the battery topped up. The alternator only charges while you are driving.

    Slide 3 of 12

    Calculation

    The fatal mistake: not calculating before you buy

    Calculating your real electricity consumption

    Total consumption

    Use (Wh/day) = Sum(Power x Hours/day)

    Power=Watts of each appliance

    Hours=Daily time in use

    Ex.Fridge 45W x 24h + LED 5W x 4h + laptop 65W x 3h + pump 24W x 0.15h + fan 20W x 6h = 540 Wh/day
    EquipmentPowerHours/dayWh/day
    Compressor fridge45W24h~200 Wh
    LED lighting (x4)5W4h20 Wh
    Chargers (laptop+phone)65W3h195 Wh
    12V water pump24W0.15h3.6 Wh
    Roof fan20W6h120 Wh
    Typical TOTAL——~540 Wh/day

    The rest of the module is waiting for you

    9 more slides, quizzes and a badge to earn.

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