Renogy E.FLEX 100SE User Manual

The Renogy E.FLEX 100SE is a 100W portable, flexible monocrystalline solar panel designed for off-grid power applications. It features high-efficiency solar cells, a lightweight and durable ETFE laminate construction, IP68 waterproof rating, MC4 connectors, and is compatible with most 12V solar charge controllers. Ideal for RVs, boats, camping, and emergency power. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to System 7. Operation & Performance 8. Maintenance & Storage 9. Safety Information 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Flexible solar panel, MC4 connectors, junction box, mounting grommets.

Feature	Description
High-Efficiency Cells	Monocrystalline solar cells with high conversion efficiency
Flexible Design	Bendable up to 30 degrees for curved surfaces
ETFE Laminate	Durable, weather-resistant coating
IP68 Rating	Waterproof and dustproof for outdoor use
MC4 Connectors	Industry-standard connectors for easy system integration
Lightweight	Easy to transport and install
Mounting Grommets	Pre-installed holes for secure mounting
Bypass Diodes	Minimizes power drop from partial shading
High Transparency	Low light reflection for better performance
Wide Temperature Range	Operates in extreme environmental conditions

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal location with maximum sunlight exposure.

Select mounting surface: Clean, dry, and curved (if applicable) surface.
Position panel: Align panel for south-facing (Northern Hemisphere) orientation.
Secure panel: Use adhesive, zip ties, or mounting brackets through grommets.
Route cables: Ensure cables are protected from sharp edges and environmental damage.
Connect to charge controller: Use MC4 connectors to link panel to controller.

WARNING! Do not install under shade or near heat sources. Ensure all connections are dry before powering.

First-Time Setup

Connect panel to a compatible solar charge controller and battery system.

Verify compatibility: Ensure charge controller matches panel voltage (12V nominal).
Connect panel to controller: Attach MC4 connectors (red to positive, black to negative).
Connect controller to battery: Follow controller manual for proper battery connection.
Check system: Ensure all connections are secure and polarity is correct.
Monitor output: Use controller display or multimeter to verify power generation.

CAUTION! Never connect panel directly to battery without a charge controller to prevent damage.

Specifications

Maximum Power (Pmax): 100W
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 22.3V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 5.86A
Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp): 18.6V
Optimum Operating Current (Imp): 5.38A
Cell Type: Monocrystalline Silicon
Dimensions: 1050 x 540 x 2.5 mm
Weight: 1.8 kg
Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Max System Voltage: 600V DC
Connector Type: MC4 (male/female pair included)
Warranty: 25-year power output, 5-year material and workmanship

Controls and Connections

Panel has no active controls; power management is handled by external charge controller.

Junction Box: Contains bypass diodes and MC4 connector ports.

MC4 Connectors: Red for positive (+), black for negative (-). Ensure proper polarity when connecting.

Charge Controller Settings: Configure controller per battery type (AGM, Gel, Lithium, etc.) for optimal charging.

Connecting to System

Connect to solar charge controller, battery, and load as per system design.

Turn off all system components before connecting.
Connect panel to controller input terminals (PV+/PV-).
Connect controller battery terminals to battery (observe polarity).
Connect load to controller load terminals if supported.
Power on controller and monitor initial charging status.

Tip: Use a multimeter to verify open circuit voltage before connecting to ensure panel is functional.

Operation & Performance

Panel generates DC electricity when exposed to sunlight.

Optimal Angle: Adjust tilt angle seasonally for maximum irradiance.
Sunlight Exposure: Ensure no shading on panel surface during peak hours.
Performance Monitoring: Check charge controller regularly for voltage, current, and power.
Temperature Effects: Output decreases slightly at high temperatures; ensure ventilation.
Cleaning: Keep surface clean from dust, snow, and debris for best performance.

WARNING! Do not walk on or place heavy objects on the panel. Avoid exposure to corrosive chemicals.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular inspection ensures long-term performance and safety.

Visual Inspection: Check for physical damage, delamination, or discoloration.
Connection Check: Ensure MC4 connectors are secure and free of corrosion.
Cleaning: Use soft cloth and water; avoid abrasive materials.
Storage: Store in dry, cool place away from direct sunlight when not in use.

CAUTION! Disconnect panel from system before performing any maintenance.

Safety Information

Electrical Hazard: Panel generates DC voltage when exposed to light, even when disconnected from battery.

Always wear insulated gloves when working with live connections.
Do not disconnect under load without proper precautions.
Keep children and pets away from installation area.
Use appropriate gauge wiring to handle maximum current.
Install overcurrent protection (fuse/breaker) as per local electrical codes.

DANGER! Risk of electric shock. Contact with live parts may result in serious injury or death.

Regulatory Information

Compliant with IEC 61215, IEC 61730 for safety and performance. CE, RoHS certified. Copyright © Renogy. All trademarks are property of Renogy. For technical support, visit www.renogy.com or contact [email protected]. Refer to local regulations for grid-tie requirements (not recommended for grid-tie without certified inverter).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output power	Shading, dirty surface, wrong connections	Clean panel, check for obstructions, verify polarity and secure connections.
Low power output	Partial shading, poor angle, high temperature	Reposition panel, adjust tilt, ensure ventilation, check for damaged cells.
MC4 connector overheating	Loose connection, corrosion	Disconnect, clean connectors, ensure tight fit, replace if damaged.
Physical damage (cracks, delamination)	Impact, improper handling	Stop using immediately; contact Renogy for repair or replacement.
Charge controller not recognizing panel	Voltage mismatch, faulty wiring	Verify panel Voc matches controller input range; check all wiring continuity.

Reset: Disconnect panel and battery, then reconnect following proper sequence.

Service: [email protected]; www.renogy.com; +1 (800) 330-8678