To use a solar panel safely and efficiently its power output must be regulated. A solar regulator serves that purpose. There are two categories of regulator, most are based on the older PWM (pulse width modulation) technology, but the latest and best is MPPT (maximum power point tracking). MPPT has a built-in computer that constantly adjusts and delivers the right mix of voltage and amperage to deliver up to 40% more efficiency and thus not waste the generating capacity of your solar panels. To learn more how that is done please see the links below.
Solar Torrent delivers to you our class of MPPT controllers ranging from 10 - 30 amperes. They will handle a solar panel with wattage ranging from 120 to 1,200 watts. This 30A regulator will handle up to 1,200 watts panels. Remember the electrical formula, watt = volt x ampere, or simple W = IV , where I = ampere, W = watts, and V = volts. See products' detail specifications.
MPPT versus PWM
The cornerstone of PWM is the emission of electrical pulses to reverse sulfate buildup in batteries. Sulfate is created on the battery plates when it is left in a discharged state for a prolonged time. However, signal pulsation is also a source of unwanted radio emission that badly interferes with electronic devices in your building. In contrast, MPPT technology ensures that a prolonged discharged state will not occur by delivering
maximally
safe current to the battery. Another downside of PWM is that you must voltage match them, buy the wrong one or increase your panels and you have to buy another correct PWM.
PWM is not capable of adjusting the current and, therefore, the energy (wattage) from the solar panel is wasted. MPPT prevents this waste by automating the right mix of current and voltage delivery to batteries and loads attached to the solar panel system. Since solar panel output decreases with increase ambient heat, MPPT makes automated adjustment based on your loads and ambient conditions. Besides maximizing power delivery, MPPT prolongs the life of your battery through the above mechanism (also see features listed). In short, the extension of battery life and optimization of power delivery makes investment in a MPPT controller pays for itself many times over in a short period.
To learn more about MPPT and PWM please visit the following links:
About MPPT
MPPT versus PWM
MPPT beats PWM hands down
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