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Maximising power output from solar panels

Former Member

There is an ongoing debate in the sector about how best to maximise the power from a solar panel and minimise shading effects: do you use a micro-inverter with built in MPPT or do you use a solar tracker. Both have cost implications, but what is your preference from a technical viewpoint?

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  • 0

    Although I am not in the alternative energy industry, I would have to lean towards the MPPT option. For stationary panels, the MPPT option is best for choosing the best location for maximum output.

     

    However, the solar tracker helps keep the direct sunlight on the panel longer at the cost of moving the panel. If the energy used to move the panel can be optimised, then this might be best.

     

    It also depend on the solar cell tech too. Some cells can handle collecting from indirect sunlight.

     

    C

  • 0 in reply to Catwell

    While I don't know what mppt stands for, possibly micro-processor... I think that a very good use for micro-solar harvesting technology would be to monitor solar intensity and hence solar variation and hence generate error signals to control servo motors etc etc

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  • 0 in reply to Former Member

    MPPT stand for 'Maximum Peak Power Tracking'. Because the peak power output voltage from a solar panel varies with the incident radiation and with temperature it does not always coincide with the battery voltage so a direct connection of the panel to a battery results is a reduction in available charge. The MPPT controller uses a variable DC-DC converter to allow the panel output voltage to be optimised under microprocessor control. This typically gives a 15-20% improvement in charge current. The Outback power 'Flexmax 60' is a good example of such a controller.