Solar Costs - MPPT vs PWM

[CA_Traveler]

The continued lower price of the larger panels has now dropped the MPPT costs just below PWM for a larger RV solar setup.

SolarBlvd Cynergy 3x$200 250W panels 750W $600
SolarHome Morningstar MPPT 60 controller $472
SolarHome Moriningstar TS-RM-2 remote meter $102
Total $1174

SolarBlvd Cynergy 5x$159 140W panels 700W $795
SolarHome Morningstar PWM 60 controller $206
SolarHome Moriningstar TS-RM-2 remote meter $102
Total $1103

Both sets of panels use about 52 sq feel of roof space and SolarBlvd has 250W panels for $160.

Add 5%+ more MPPT power and likely higher PWM wiring costs and MPPT is taking the lead in lower costs.

Other panels, controllers, etc are also available for both PWM and MPPT.

[Salvo]

You sure about that? I know they should share in boost, but what about absorption? I think you need one control for both.

BFL13 wrote:


Another factor is you can use two 20a Eco-Worthy MPPTs at $102 each instead of a 40a MPPT controller that will be way more than $204.

[BFL13]

Yes, you have to check prices all the time as the "cross-over/tipping point" between the two varies greatly depending on what kind of deal you can find, shipping cost or not, etc.

Another factor is you can use two 20a Eco-Worthy MPPTs at $102 each instead of a 40a MPPT controller that will be way more than $204.

EG, here, the 12v panels are $2/w while 24v are $1/w except if you planned on that, then today there was a place that was selling 12v panels for $1/w. Holy Cow! So there goes the plan. Start over.

It is too bad something that lasts so long once you buy it, can be skewed so much by unpredictable sales prices popping up. It is great if you are wide awake and catch a deal just when you need it though.

[time2roll]

Flat mounted I would be tempted to use MS-MPPT-45 up to 750 watts.
5x 140w = 5x 8.4 Isc = 42 amps so 45 PWM should be fine also.

[RJsfishin]

I just added my 3 100 watt panels, up and operating, w/ digital readout volts and amps, total, $430. Plus I like the smaller lighter panels.
I'd say, if you like it, do it.

[JiminDenver]

Cost is just one of the things to consider when designing system to your needs.