At Photonic Universe we love high quality solar products. That's why we have developed this highly durable black semi-flexible solar panel reinforced with fibreglass plastic and a strong ETFE surface and made from monocrystalline solar cells. This model also features a rear-fitted circular junction box and 3m dual core cable. This high efficiency 180W solar panel is perfect for permanent outdoor use to provide free electricity for charging 12V batteries to power various applications, such as in a motorhome, caravan, camper, boat, or for solar lighting systems, off-grid, and back up solar power systems. The panel can also be used to provide direct power supply for applications not sensitive to changes in input voltage / current (e.g. electric motors or pumps) and for various grid-tie applications.

Product features:

Robust construction using plastic reinforced with glass fibre creates a sturdy and durable solar panel
Special textured surface significantly reduces light reflection and improves performance in low light and cloudy conditions
Highly flexible design makes this panel ideal for curved roofs and surfaces where bonding is preferable (though it can also be fixed by bolts or screws)
The panel is incredibly light (only 3.15kg) and very thin (just 2mm) which is great for all vehicles
High resistance to salt water environments makes it perfect for boats and marine applications
Sealed waterproof design ensures it can be used in all weather conditions
Junction box on the back allows for a smooth and level surface, free of trip hazards and unsightly cables. Round shape for easy fitting
Fitted with a single length of high quality 3m dual core cable for easy installation and wiring

Strong ETFE coating:

In addition to the fibreglass reinforcement, the surface of this 180W semi-flexible solar panel is made of strong ETFE material which has a longer service life compared to standard semi-flexible solar panels. As a result, these particular semi-flexible solar panels are extremely hard-wearing and less prone to cracking, delamination and corrosion. The lightly textured coating of this panel creates an anti-reflective surface which allows the panel to absorb a far greater amount of light, thereby increasing efficiency. ETFE material has long been used in applications where durability and high-temperature resistance is required, such as in the Eden Project, Cornwall. You can read more about ETFE and its benefits here.

High quality 5-busbar solar cells:

This panel also features new generation 5-busbar solar cells, which are more efficient than the 2, 3 or 4 busbar solar cells used in most other solar panels, and are able to extract more power from the same surface area. This results in a smaller overall solar panel, which is ideal for applications where space is limited.

Simple, professional installation:

This particular model features the junction box and cable on the rear side of the panel to create a completely level surface and professional finish after installation. Unlike other solar panels, the junction box on this solar panel is a circular shape with only one dual core cable (3m length) attached, allowing for simplified installation. Please note: in order for this panel to be flush-mounted, a recess must be cut in to the roof/surface.

This solar panel has a unique black backing, making it ideal for discreet and aesthetically pleasing installation on dark coloured roofs, vehicles or mounting surfaces. Please note that this solar panel is not 'ultra jet-black' - the exact hue may vary marginally from panel to panel, depending on the batch of solar cells.

Anti-reflective textured surface:

The textured surface of this solar panel reduces the reflection of light whilst maximising the absorption of light from every possible angle. This ensures high performance in low light or cloudy conditions, or when the light falls at an angle (in the morning, evening, or winter).

Click on the Details and Specifications tab for more information about this product.

Solar panel specifications:

Peak power: 180W
Maximum power voltage: 20.5V
Maximum power current: 8.79A
Open circuit voltage: 24.0V
Short circuit current: 9.22A
Dimensions: 1470 x 665 x 2 mm
Weight: 3.15 kg

This product comes with a 3 year workmanship warranty which covers material and production defects. For more information please refer to our Terms and Conditions.

This solar panel comes with a detailed instruction manual which explains wiring and operations. You can download the manual in the Documents tab.

Charging a 12V battery: please note this panel requires a solar charge controller / regulator to charge a 12V battery, it cannot be connected directly to the battery. All of our solar charge controllers include a detailed instruction manual which explains the installation and wiring. To view the full range of solar charge controllers we offer, please visit the Solar Charge Controllers category of our online shop. For boats we particularly recommend our 20A waterproof solar charge controller.

If you need help with your installation or have any technical questions we can provide FREE support - please contact us by email or phone (see Contact Us page for more information).

The following documents are available to download:

Technical drawing of black 180W fibreglass semi-flexible solar panel with rear junction box FLAXBJB-180M (Front)

Technical drawing of black 180W fibreglass semi-flexible solar panel with rear junction box FLAXBJB-180M (Rear)

Handling and installation manual for Photonic Universe FLAX semi-flexible solar panels

180W black semi-flexible fibreglass solar panel with round rear junction box and 3m cable, with durable ETFE coating