Hey guys, really after some help, as I’m doing circles mostly in my mind.
I have a Victron 100/50 MPPT with a 12V Fullriver 120AH battery
…without any input, I’ve calculated it would take 1.2days to completely flatten from my usage.
My goal is obviously to recharge the battery in the most efficient way possible, with size of panels being ‘somewhat of an issue’ – as in, I would prefer smaller panels – but if it makes sense to do so, I will get creative with room to accommodate bigger panels.
Option 1: 3 x Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Mono Solar Panel(Compact Design)
Solar Cell Type: Monocrystalline Cable outputs: 12AWG
IP65 Rated waterproof junction box IP67 Rated waterproof MC4 connectors
Maximum Power: 100W Maximum System Voltage: 600V DC (UL)
Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp): 17.9V Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
Optimum Operating Current (Imp): 5.72A Short-Circuit Current (Isc): 6.24A
Weight: 6.5 kg Dimensions: 1074 x 498 x 35mm
Number of Diodes: 1 Diode(s) Diode Type: 15SQ045
*I may possibly go 4 panels, and these would fold up nicely as opposed two opt.2
Option 2: 2 x Renogy 160 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel
Solar Cell Type: Monocrystalline
Max Power at STC: 160W
Open Circuit Voltage: 22.9V Short Circuit Current: 8.37A
Opitmum Operating Voltage: 20.2V Optimum Operating Current: 7.92A
Operating Temperature: -40℃ to 90℃ Product Dimensions: 130.3 x 65.8 x 3.5 cm
Product Weight: 12 kg
…in the forum, I’ve seen people comment for option 1 that 21.6v is a bit on the low side considering +5v for MPPT to work?
So, my thoughts for Option 1 [if I went 4 panels] would be two serials in parallel? But with all of the PV world being out of my league, I’d really like some guidance – for instance, do MPPTs prefer more voltage and less amps, or more amps less voltage (or don't they care), and it comes down to sun harvesting approach i.e. I’ve heard before higher voltage panels are better for collecting earlier and running later? Anyhow, would really appreciate anyone shedding some light ;) on the best approach. Many thanks in advance, Peter
