Solar Controllers

Here you can find our stock range of Solar Charge Controllers, MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and standard solar charge controllers are both used in solar power systems, but they differ in their functionality and efficiency. Here are the key differences between them: 

1. Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): - MPPT charge controllers are more advanced and efficient. - They use a specialized algorithm to constantly adjust the electrical operating point of the solar panels to extract the maximum available power. - MPPT controllers can optimize the power output from solar panels even when the panels are not operating at their rated voltage or current. - They can improve energy harvest by up to 30% compared to standard controllers, particularly in situations with partial shading, low temperatures, or when the battery voltage is different from the solar panel's maximum power point voltage. - MPPT controllers are typically more expensive than standard controllers. 
2. Standard (PWM) Solar Charge Controllers: - Standard solar charge controllers are more basic and less efficient than MPPT controllers. - They use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology to regulate the charging of the battery bank. - PWM controllers attempt to match the solar panel's output voltage to the battery bank's voltage by switching the charging on and off at a high frequency. - They are less efficient in situations where the panel voltage and battery voltage differ significantly, resulting in power losses. - Standard controllers work best when the solar panel's maximum power point voltage is close to the battery bank's charging voltage. - They are generally less expensive than MPPT controllers but sacrifice efficiency. 

In summary, MPPT solar charge controllers are more advanced and efficient, maximizing the energy harvested from solar panels by continuously adjusting their operating point. Standard controllers, while less expensive, are less efficient and may not extract the maximum available power from the solar panels, especially in non-ideal conditions. The choice between the two depends on the specific solar system requirements, budget, and the importance of maximizing energy output.