What can the foldable solar panel do?
Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role – also in the private sector. Above all, so-called balcony power plants are currently enjoying great popularity. But there are also mobile solutions such as the foldable solar panel Bluetti PV200. We have tested the solar mat extensively.
The Bluetti PV200 is a foldable solar panel Poweroak GmbH, which originated in China. In addition to its solar mats, the company also offers portable power stations and home batteries. Like the energy storage, the Bluetti solar panels are also available with different levels of performance.
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Bluetti PV200 foldable solar panel: packaging, size and first impressions
With a maximum output of 200 watts, the Bluetti PV200 is in the middle. The solar mat comes well packed in a box with foam and bubble wrap. Even in the event of turbulence during delivery, the device should not be damaged.
When folded, the Bluetti PV200 is quite space-saving. With a weight of around seven kilograms and a size of 60 x 60 centimetres, it can be transported relatively easily and stowed away both at home and on the go. When unfolded, the foldable solar panel is 2.25 meters long.
Bluetti PV200 unboxing (Photo: BASIC thinking)
In terms of material, the Bluetti PV200 makes a good and stable impression. When folded, it is secured on the left and right with click fasteners, which are relatively easy to open and close again. On the back there is a sewn-on zip pocket, in which the connection cable is located. A plastic handle allows for easy transport.
Scope of delivery, construction and commissioning
In addition to the foldable solar panel, a user manual and a guarantee card with a one-year validity are included in the scope of delivery. However, the instruction manual is a bit sparse. The construction is all the easier, because the solar mat can be folded out in just three movements.
Bluetti PV200 construction (Photo: BASIC tinnking)
On the back of the Bluetti PV200 there are three folding stands that can be detached and re-attached with Velcro. The angle can be variably adjusted using a strap with a push button. The possible options: 35, 45 and 55 degrees. Theoretically, the solar mat can also be used lying flat on the ground.
The Bluetti PV200 is primarily designed for charging a power station. For commissioning, the solar cable with MC4 connectors must be connected to a battery via an adapter. Theoretically, this is possible with different models. Of course, Bluetti recommends its own products. In any case, it is important that the solar mat and power station are compatible in terms of voltage.
Bluetti PV200 in the test: performance and experiences
As the name already suggests, the maximum output of the Bluetti PV200 is 200 watts. The company specifies the voltage as 20.5 volts. At maximum power, the current is up to 9.7 amps. The solar cells, which come from the US company Sunpower, have an efficiency of 23.4 percent.
The foldable solar panel when unfolded (Photo: BASIC thinking)
This means that the monocrystalline cells can convert up to 23.4 percent of the incoming sunlight into energy. In another article, we will test how the Bluetti PV200 performs in practice in combination with the portable power station AC200P.
According to Bluetti, charging a 537-watt EB55 takes around three hours under optimal conditions. In combination with the Bluetti AC200P power station with 2,000 watts, it should be around 5.5 hours with two solar mats. Thanks to a special coating, the portable solar panel is designed to withstand scratches and water splashes. However, rain should be avoided.
Conclusion and experiences: Foldable solar panel Bluetti PV200
The Bluetti PV200 can be assembled within a minute. When folded, the solar mat can be easily transported. It’s a pity, however, that the panel doesn’t have any eyelets to hang it up. Nevertheless, it is ideal for use when camping.
But it can also be used at home – for example in the garden or, as in our case, on the balcony. Unfortunately, the Bluetti PV200 does not have any other connection options such as a USB port in addition to the MC4 connections. It can therefore only be used in combination with a power station. The price of the foldable solar panel in online retail is now around 400 to 450 euros.
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