Renogy E.FLEX 30SE User Manual

The Renogy E.FLEX 30SE is a 30W portable, flexible monocrystalline solar panel designed for off-grid power applications. It features high-efficiency solar cells, a durable ETFE surface, waterproof IP67 rating, integrated kickstand, and pre-installed MC4 connectors. Ideal for charging 12V batteries, powering small appliances, RVs, boats, and emergency backup. 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 Devices 7. Operation & Charging 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Flexible monocrystalline solar panel, MC4 connectors, integrated kickstand, ETFE surface, junction box with bypass diodes.

Feature	Description
Solar Cells	High-efficiency monocrystalline silicon cells
Surface Material	ETFE laminate for durability and light transmission
Waterproof Rating	IP67 rated junction box and connectors
Connectors	Pre-installed MC4 connectors (male/female)
Kickstand	Integrated adjustable stand for optimal angle
Dimensions	Approximately 26 x 14 inches (folded)
Weight	2.2 lbs (1 kg)
Output Cable	3.3 ft (1 m) output cables with MC4 connectors
Operating Temp	-40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
Warranty	5-year material and workmanship warranty

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present and undamaged.

Choose location: Place panel in direct sunlight, clear of shadows.
Position panel: Use kickstand to adjust tilt angle (approx. 30-45° optimal).
Connect to charge controller: Use MC4 connectors to link panel to compatible charge controller.
Connect to battery: Ensure charge controller is properly connected to 12V battery.
Secure panel: Use included grommets or adhesive for permanent mounting on curved surfaces.

WARNING! Do not connect panel directly to battery without charge controller. Avoid shading cells to prevent hot spots.

First-Time Setup

For initial use, follow these steps to ensure proper operation.

Verify connections: Ensure MC4 connectors are fully engaged and weatherproof.
Check charge controller: Confirm charge controller is compatible (PWM or MPPT for 12V systems).
Monitor output: Use multimeter or charge controller display to verify voltage (approx. 18V open circuit).
Angle adjustment: Adjust kickstand seasonally for maximum sun exposure.

CAUTION! Handle flexible panel carefully; do not bend beyond 30-degree arc. Keep connectors dry and clean.

Specifications

Maximum Power (Pmax): 30W
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 1.83A
Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp): 18V
Optimum Operating Current (Imp): 1.67A
Cell Efficiency: Up to 22%
Dimensions (Unfolded): 26 x 14 x 0.1 in (660 x 356 x 2.5 mm)
Weight: 2.2 lbs (1 kg)
Max System Voltage: 600V (UL certified)
Connector Type: MC4 (IP67)
Junction Box: IP67 rated with bypass diodes

Controls and Connections

Panel has no active controls; operation is passive based on sunlight. Key connection points: MC4 output connectors, junction box.

Connection Diagram: Solar Panel → MC4 cables → Charge Controller → 12V Battery → Load.

Junction Box: Contains bypass diodes to minimize power loss from shading. Do not open; warranty void if tampered.

Connecting to Devices

Compatible with 12V batteries via charge controller. Can connect in series/parallel for higher voltage/current.

Turn off all connected devices before making connections.
Connect panel to charge controller using MC4 cables (red to positive, black to negative).
Connect charge controller to battery observing polarity.
Connect load (e.g., lights, fan) to charge controller load terminals or battery.

Tip: Use Renogy Adventurer or Wanderer charge controllers for optimal compatibility. Never short-circuit panel terminals.

Operation & Charging

Panel generates DC electricity when exposed to sunlight.

Deploy panel: Unfold and place in direct sun, adjust kickstand.
Check output: Verify charge controller indicates charging status.
Monitor performance: Output varies with sunlight intensity, angle, and temperature.
Storage: Fold panel and store in dry, cool place when not in use.
Cleaning: Wipe surface with damp cloth if dusty; avoid abrasive materials.

WARNING! Do not walk on or place heavy objects on panel. Disconnect cables before cleaning or maintenance.

Safety Features

Bypass Diodes: Minimize power loss and prevent hot spots from partial shading. Waterproof: IP67 rating protects against dust and temporary immersion. ETFE Surface: UV resistant and self-cleaning. Overcurrent Protection: Provided by charge controller.

Care & Maintenance

Regular inspection ensures longevity and performance.

Clean surface periodically with soft cloth and water; no harsh chemicals.
Check connectors for corrosion or damage; ensure seals are intact.
Inspect for cracks or delamination; discontinue use if damage is found.
Store in protective case when not in use; avoid extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not attempt to repair junction box; contact Renogy for service. Avoid exposing connectors to moisture.

Regulatory Information

Compliant with UL 1703 standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. CE and RoHS certified. Copyright © Renogy. All trademarks belong to Renogy. For support, visit www.renogy.com or contact customer service at 1-800-330-8678.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output voltage	Shading, dirty surface, loose connections	Clean panel, check all MC4 connections, ensure full sun exposure.
Low charging current	Cloudy weather, wrong angle, panel mismatch	Adjust tilt angle, verify panel and battery voltage compatibility.
Charge controller not recognizing panel	Reverse polarity, faulty cable	Check polarity; test cables with multimeter for continuity.
Hot spots on panel	Partial shading, cell damage	Remove shading source; inspect for physical damage.
Water ingress in connectors	Loose seal, damaged O-ring	Disconnect, dry thoroughly, replace connectors if necessary.

Reset: Disconnect and reconnect all cables; restart charge controller.

Service: 1-800-330-8678; www.renogy.com