Estimate Daily Energy Demand
Convert each appliance into daily energy use based on power draw and run time. This gives you a target that can be compared with battery capacity and expected charging.
Roof Space Is a Hard Constraint
Fans, skylights, roof racks and air conditioners compete with solar panels. Create a roof plan before buying panels and leave space for safe installation, service and component clearances.
Solar Production Changes With Conditions
Panel rating is measured under standardized conditions. Real production varies with sun angle, temperature, shading, dirt and season. Build in margin rather than assuming nameplate wattage will be available all day.
The Charge Controller Must Match the Array and Battery
A solar charge controller regulates energy from the panels into the battery bank. Voltage and current limits, battery chemistry and wiring configuration must all stay within the manufacturer’s specifications.
Solar Does Not Replace Every Charging Source
Many travelers combine solar with alternator charging and shore power. This gives the system a way to recover during cloudy weather, shaded parking or high energy use.
Plan Serviceability
Roof cable entries, disconnects, controller access and fuse locations should be reachable. Label the system and keep the panel and controller manuals with your build documentation.
Turn the research into a build plan
The free guides on this site explain individual decisions. The Van Conversion Manual is designed to keep the major systems organized in one complete digital reference for the project.