This ensures the solar charge controller will always leverage the maximum possible power under all conditions throughout the day. MPPT solar controllers monitor these output power changes and “track” the MPP point while constantly adjusting its operation accordingly. And that’s where the maximum power point tracking charge controller works its magic. They work by switching the power generated by the solar panels on and off in a regular, square wave pulse pattern, as illustrated below.Īs you can see, the panel outputs will seldom remain static for long. PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) charge controllers are essentially simple switching interfaces between the solar panels and the batteries. For anything bigger, you will definitely need a solar charge controller. You won’t need a controller for micro solar systems with solar panels with 5 watts or fewer outputs. In addition, they include functions that optimize solar cell outputs and the resultant battery charging. The prime function of the solar charge controller is to ensure that the battery is not overcharged. What Is a Solar Charge Controller?Ī solar charge controller is a device that acts as an interface between solar panels and batteries. PWM showdown, you should understand the basic differences between their operation and capabilities. PWM choice is one of the most important of those component choices. Either from unnecessary initial expenditure or lost solar potential and all because of bad component choices.Īnd the MPPT vs. However, you could be wasting hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year. Naturally, you can go out and randomly buy components, slap them down in a sunny area, and you’ll have power. Utilizing solar power properly results from creating a fine balance between your environment, power needs, and the chosen components. The big picture viewpoint is far more complex and contributes more to solar efficiency than pure dollar and cents considerations. Although this is a significant consideration, it isn’t the most important one. MPPT vs PWM Controllers: The Importance of the ChoiceĪ lot of folks view the MPPT vs PWM debate from a simplistic cost perspective. This makes them particularly suitable for colder climates and heavily shaded locations. MPPT controller’s sophisticated circuitry allows them to leverage maximum potential from large solar panel arrays and all common battery voltages.Īnd they deliver the same performance under adverse solar conditions. However, any larger, high-demand, on-grid solar system supporting essential equipment or services should always be equipped with an MPPT controller. Essentially any system that operates occasionally and doesn’t tax the batteries much will definitely benefit from a PWM charge controller. Smaller, lighter, and cheaper than their MPPT peers, they are ideal for non-essential lighting, electric gates, irrigation stations, and electric fences. Classification of MPPT and PWM Charge Controllers They are also particularly suited to scorching climates where solar irradiation is optimized. In fact, in smaller trickle charging applications, the PWM controller is king. That’s not to say that the PWM solar charge controller is redundant or doesn’t have a meaningful role to play. Check out the difference between MPPT vs.
Put, against the backdrop of modern solar technology, MPPT charge controllers can do it all while PWM controllers can’t. MPPT charge controllers can harness optimal performance from any solar array under a wide range of conditions, while PWM controllers are limited in their scope of application.