Renogy E.Flex-CORE 100W Portable Solar Panel: features, specs and uses

The Renogy E.Flex-CORE 100W (model RPP100EF-SE) is a portable, foldable solar panel for camping, fishing, RV trips and other time away from a power outlet. It can charge devices directly through its USB ports or feed a portable power station or battery through its solar connector. Here is what its main features mean.

What 100 watts gets you

The 100W figure is the panel's output under ideal test conditions. In real use, output is usually lower because of cloud, the angle of the sun, shade and heat. A panel of this size is typically used to top up a portable power station or small battery over a day, or to keep phones, tablets and other small devices charged. Larger loads need more panels or a longer charging time.

Efficiency and materials

Renogy quotes a power conversion efficiency of 23.5% and says it uses Grade A solar cells with an ETFE surface. ETFE is a tough, lightweight plastic film often used on portable panels instead of glass. Higher efficiency simply means more power from each square centimetre of panel, which matters when the panel has to fold up and be carried.

The output ports

The panel has four outputs:

• one industry-standard solar connector;
• one USB-C port;
• two USB-A ports (one orange, one black).

The solar connector is for power stations and charge controllers that accept solar input. The USB ports let you charge phones and small gadgets directly, without any extra equipment. Renogy says several devices can be charged at the same time. Check the manual for the output of each port and the voltage range your power station accepts.

Built for outdoor use

The panel is rated IP65 for splash and dust resistance. Renogy cautions that it should not be soaked or left in pouring rain for a long time, as that could shorten its life. It has four mounting holes so it can be tied to a car roof, RV or tree. A magnetic design with a buckle or hook-and-loop strap holds it closed when folded.

Size and weight

The listing gives dimensions of 21.1 x 1.8 x 24.3 inches (about 54 x 4.6 x 62 cm) and a weight of 12.1 lb (about 5.5 kg). Check the manual for the unfolded size, so you can be sure you have space to set it up.

Who it suits

It suits campers, anglers and RV owners who want to charge devices or a power station away from the grid. It also suits those who want a panel they can move to follow the sun, rather than fix to a roof.

What to check before you buy

• Power station compatibility: confirm the solar input connector type, voltage and wattage limits of your power station.
• Cable: check whether you need an adapter cable to link the panel to your equipment.
• Weight and storage: at 12.1 lb, consider how you will carry and pack it away.
• Weather: plan to bring it in out of heavy rain.
• Sun: position matters, so check that you can angle it towards the sun.
• What's in the box: confirm which cables and accessories come with it.

The short version

• A portable, foldable 100W solar panel with ETFE surface and a quoted 23.5% efficiency.
• Outputs: a solar connector, USB-C and two USB-A ports.
• IP65 rated for splashes and dust, not for soaking.
• Four mounting holes and a magnetic closure.
• Weighs 12.1 lb.

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