Why you should always consider using MPPT charge controller on solar installations

PWM vs MPPT solar charge controller system.

What's different?

The charge controller is important for a solar power system. There are two types of charge controllers: pulse width modulation (PWM) and maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Both control the charging rate based on the battery’s charge level to use more of the battery’s capacity. They also watch the temperature of the battery to prevent overheating. To pick the best type, some analysis is necessary.

This will help you select

If all we cared about was charging capacity, we would always use an MPPT controller for solar power. But, there are other things to think about. The choice of controller depends on things like where the solar power system is being used, how big it is, and how much it costs.

Temperature condition matters

An MPPT controller is a good choice for cold weather because solar panels produce less energy when it’s warm. At room temperature, the solar panel voltage is 17V while the battery voltage is 13.5V. An MPPT controller captures the extra voltage to charge batteries. In cold weather, an MPPT controller can charge batteries up to 25% more effectively than a PWM controller, which cannot use extra voltage because it works at the same voltage as the battery. In hot weather, the solar panel voltage is close to the battery voltage, so there’s no extra voltage to capture and an MPPT controller is not needed.

Array to Load Ratio also matters

If the solar panels are big compared to the power needed by the batteries, the batteries will stay almost full. To keep everything working well, a PWM controller is enough and there’s no need to spend more on an MPPT controller.

How big the system is makes a difference.

Low-power systems are better suited for a PWM controller because:

– A PWM controller operates at a relatively constant harvesting efficiency regardless of the size of the array.

– A PWM controller is less expensive than an MPPT, making it a more economical choice for a small system.

– An MPPT controller is much less efficient in low-power applications. Systems with 170W or higher tickle the MPPT’s sweet spot.

What type of solar modules do you have?

Off-grid solar panels usually come with 36 cells and can work with both PWM and MPPT technologies. However, some solar panels that connect to the power grid have more than 36 cells and may not work with off-grid power systems that use 12-Volt or 24-Volt batteries. MPPT technology can help charge batteries with these solar panels by finding the maximum power point, but PWM cannot.

Cost is another factors to consider

MPPT and PWM are two types of solar controllers. MPPT is usually more expensive but can be more efficient in certain situations, resulting in more power with fewer solar modules than a PWM. It’s important to verify that MPPT is more efficient for your specific system. The total cost of the system is more important than the cost of the controller when deciding which technology to use. Look at efficiencies, system operation, load, and site conditions before deciding solely on cost.

Summary

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