PV panel selection? (long)
Hello, all. I’m looking for some feedback on PV panels before embarking on the next upgrade to our electrical system. To establish the background, we will be mostly boondocking, and moving frequent...
Forum Discussion
#1: Doesn't matter much. I chose quality (European). Roof panels is a long-term solution and solar is my only energy source now, so I need to be able to rely on it.
#2: Poly is better overall. Performance in partial shade has nothing to do with poly/mono, it depends on the number of diodes, the more, the better.
#3: Major difference between 265W and 140W is not "size" but "voltage". 265W panels are 24V, 140W are 12V. Different creatures and require different type of controllers. A long topic in itself. With that much wattage like you want, people "normally" go for 24V panels. "Occasionally" they go for 12V.
24V are easier to wire, can be in series with mere #10 or #8 wire.
12V are usually wired in parallel, sometimes series-parallel. With wattage over 400 it means a beefy wire to controller AND a rooftop junction box. They cost more per watt.
Once you've chosen either 12 or 24V, it's difficult to add another type into this mix later. Mismatch is a pain, and 2nd controller is more pain.
Big residential fridge + parking in partial shade = daily generator, IMO.
#2: Poly is better overall. Performance in partial shade has nothing to do with poly/mono, it depends on the number of diodes, the more, the better.
#3: Major difference between 265W and 140W is not "size" but "voltage". 265W panels are 24V, 140W are 12V. Different creatures and require different type of controllers. A long topic in itself. With that much wattage like you want, people "normally" go for 24V panels. "Occasionally" they go for 12V.
24V are easier to wire, can be in series with mere #10 or #8 wire.
12V are usually wired in parallel, sometimes series-parallel. With wattage over 400 it means a beefy wire to controller AND a rooftop junction box. They cost more per watt.
Once you've chosen either 12 or 24V, it's difficult to add another type into this mix later. Mismatch is a pain, and 2nd controller is more pain.
Big residential fridge + parking in partial shade = daily generator, IMO.
