Forum Discussion

brulaz's avatar
brulaz
Explorer
Jun 30, 2017

Can you exceed Solar Panels Nominal Max Power?

My Rogue mppt records the daily peak Watts harvested from the solar panels. The other day it recorded a peak of 740W from a nominal 690W solar system (3 panels) while driving down the road.

Is this even possible?

The "nominal" power rating is based on Standard Test Conditions of irradiance and cell temps. Perhaps my real world conditions were more optimal? Or perhaps the Rogue is wrong?

24 Replies

  • And driving will have a cooling effect to increase output.
    Otherwise stand some mirrors up and you will put them in overdrive.
  • Of course you can. That is why they warn you about the controller's voltage (Voc) input limit when you are camping in cold temperatures, EG.

    Some controllers are self-limiting for power though ( power not voltage) to keep them from exceeding their amps ratings. (Sometimes called, "clipping the amps.")

    You forgot to mention STC includes air pressure, which would have been the issue here, since cold wasn't likely it. Were you driving so fast you got some wing lift effect? :)

    When jimindenver used to camp at the top of Pike's Peak, he got all sorts of unusual readings on his solar set-up. :)

    EDIT--actually it would be hard to exceed the power rating since the panels if in any sun will be hotter than ambient and their power ratings will be much lower accordingly. You would need some actual measurements of the various factors to know what was happening.

    EDIT some more--if there is wing lift effect so air pressure above the panel is reduced, then this will be of concern to everyone who has roof-mounted panels?
  • High altitude and cool weather m might produce higher ratings

    Or
    Lensing effect

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