Serial vs Parallel Solar Panel Shading
I was asked if a post in another thread if this "Serial is actually better for shading (than parallel) if that is a concern for you." was a typo. It is not a typo but panel shading is not always under...
Forum Discussion
MrWizard wrote:
The previous drawings provided by the OP showed partial shading on one string of cells in one panel, allowing partial power from that panel
What he did not show was the effects was partial shade across the width of the panel shading a few cells in all strings, totally shutting down that panel
Which is what i am referencing in this statement
I brought that up in a later post. For a fully shaded panel parallel has a little more power based on the bypass diode voltage drop.
A series string with possibly lighter guage wire, might be easier to install, but does the extras cost of the mppt controller warrant the minor gains of ease of install
Over the cost of more connections involved with pwm controller
In an RV install verus fixed location
Look at the total picture:
24V panels cost less, MPPT cost more.
24V panels use less footprint than 12V panels considering watts/sq ft.
12V panels use more mounting hardware and more wiring cost.
In 2014 my 750W 24V panels and MPPT cost was only $100 more than an equivalent 12V panel and PWM.
Maybe I should run that again at today's prices.
