Solar 102!! Parallel vs. Series

[GallenH]

Sorry but this is the first of a series of posts re solar. I've done some searching and some reading from other sources.

Is there any consensus on this group as to the best way to wire multiple solar panels? I've read pros/cons on both and admit to being somewhat confused.

thx.glenn

[booster]

Originally Posted by GallenH

Sorry but this is the first of a series of posts re solar. I've done some searching and some reading from other sources.

Is there any consensus on this group as to the best way to wire multiple solar panels? I've read pros/cons on both and admit to being somewhat confused.

thx.glenn

With a good MPPT controller I would always choose series. Smaller wire, better harvest.


If you have relatively low voltage panels, then it gets tough depending on how much solar you have compared to your loads which might us all or much of the solar output. I think if the typical running voltage during good sun is much under the maximum power point voltage of the panels (typically about 17.1v these days) then an PWM charger might be best. For me, it the voltage stays at or above the MPP a good part of the day, I would choose MPPT controller.



If you are going to use a PWM controller, then parallel is the way to go, as up would get less output, most likely, than you would from an MPPT.