MPPT analysis in parallel and series configration with similar solar modules

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the performance analysis of Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPT) when using solar modules in both parallel and series configurations. Participants explore the implications of these configurations on efficiency and current flow, as well as the methodology for conducting such an analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on the methodology and parameters necessary for analyzing MPPT performance with two solar modules of specified ratings.
  • Another participant questions the benefits of analyzing the two configurations, noting that connecting panels in parallel increases current while maintaining voltage, and connecting in series maintains current while increasing voltage.
  • A participant suggests that having a higher voltage input to the MPPT controller is generally more efficient, especially for a 12V battery system, as it allows for better performance and reduced wire losses.
  • Concerns are raised about the impact of partial shading on series versus parallel configurations, with a suggestion that series connections may mitigate some negative effects.
  • There is a mention of the trade-offs involved in wiring configurations, particularly regarding the efficiency of the MPPT controller at higher input voltages.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the efficiency and performance implications of series versus parallel configurations, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the implications of shading effects, voltage headroom, and efficiency trade-offs in different configurations, leaving several assumptions and conditions unaddressed.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in solar energy systems, particularly those exploring the configuration of solar modules and the performance of MPPT controllers.

zubairmehmood
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hello!
Hope you all will be at quiet ease.
I am looking for the guidance to observe the performance analysis of MPPT (Maximum power point Tracker) in parallel and series configuration with similar solar modules. I have two solar modules each having the following rating:

- Maximum power (PMax) = 85W
- Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) = 21.96V
- Short Circuit Current (Isc) = 5.11A
- Rated voltage (Vmpp) = 18.29V
- Rated Current (Impp) = 4.65A
- Maximum System voltage = 1000V

Can anyone of you help in this regard that what methodology should be adopted and what parameters are required to be calculated for above said task.

Thanking you in anticipation.
 
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zubairmehmood said:
hello!
Hope you all will be at quiet ease.
I am looking for the guidance to observe the performance analysis of MPPT (Maximum power point Tracker) in parallel and series configuration with similar solar modules. I have two solar modules each having the following rating:

- Maximum power (PMax) = 85W
- Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) = 21.96V
- Short Circuit Current (Isc) = 5.11A
- Rated voltage (Vmpp) = 18.29V
- Rated Current (Impp) = 4.65A
- Maximum System voltage = 1000V

Can anyone of you help in this regard that what methodology should be adopted and what parameters are required to be calculated for above said task.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Welcome to the PF!

There is a short introductory article at wikipedia, with a couple reference links to follow:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximum_power_point_tracker

.
 
dear berkeman thanks for your quick response. in fact i want to know what will be the benefit of analyzing the two panels in series and parallel configurations because we know that whenever these panels will be connected in parallel the current will increase and voltages will remain same and in series I is same V will increase as it is a general rule. I am a newbie in this solar field i have understood that the configuration which provide you more current flow is efficient (your comments needed). what can be the other efficiency parameters that can be measured with series parallel configuration in which efficiency can be better in other case.

thanks
 
If your battery is 12 Volts, it is usually better to have at least twice the nominal (12V)
voltage rating of photovoltaics (Solar panels) coming into the MPPT controller.
This is because the Vmp of the modules can get so close to the battery voltage
that there is just not much voltage headroom to do much good. Also, there will
be less PV wire losses because of the lower current, and mainly because
partial shading of the modules in series will not be as detrimental as wiring
them in parallel because even if partially shaded, the Vmp (max power point V)
will be above the battery voltage which is normally required for MPPT operation.
If the Vmp is below the battery voltage, then it just doesn't work very well at all.
Wiring PV in series will help this. Even though the MPPT controller is less
efficient at higher input voltages, the tradeoff is usually in your favor to wire
them in series rather than parallel. If lots of PV in the array, then, parallel
strings of solar modules in series.

boB
 

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