MPPT Solar Charge Controllers
Efficiently converting the power of your solar panels to the needs of your batteriesWhy a controller? Step-down or a Boost?
A controller is necessary to convert the panel output voltage(V) to the V required to charge the battery. If the panel V is above the battery V with a bit of headroom, then use a step down controller. If the panel V is near or below the battery voltage, use a boost controller. There are 2 boost controller options: Genasun GVB & Western WMarine10
How to size a solar charge controller?
A controller will have the following ratings: max panel Watts, max panel V, max output current, and min panel V. Check these ratings against the ratings of the solar panel. Use Voc for max panel V. Use Vmp for min panel V. To calculate the controller output current, divide the solar panel Watts/ battery V. More info.
Other details to think about?
The controller needs to be capable of charging the battery according to the recommended charge algorithm. For lithium, this generally means it needs to be fully programmable. All non-lithium batteries require temperature compensation so if the controllers can’t be mounted near the batteries, the controller needs to have remote temp sensing.
Genasun “Step-down” or “Buck” MPPT’s
If the panel Voltage(V) is ABOVE the battery V
GV-10 The ultra high-speed MPPT in the GV-10 is so effective it reduces your system cost per Watt.
- 98.3% peak efficiency
- Tiny self-consumption (0.12mA)
- Lithium and lead-acid compatible
- 10.5A max output
- 5 year warranty
- no remote temp sensing
Victron SmartSolar MPPT’s with Bluetooth
“Step-down” or “Buck” controllers if the panel V is ABOVE the battery V
SmartSolar 75/15 & 100/20
- Available with max current of 15A or 20A
- Bluetooth capability for programming and monitoring
- Advanced Maximum Power Point Detection in case of partial shading conditions
- Outstanding conversion efficiency
- Natural convection cooling
- Automatic battery voltage recognition-12V & 24V
- Programmable charge algorithm
- Over temperature protection and power de-rating when temperature is high
- remote temp sensing with Smart Battery Sense
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SmartSolar 100/30 & 100/50
- available with max current of 30A or 50A
- Bluetooth capability for programming and monitoring
- Advanced Maximum Power Point Detection in case of partial shading conditions
- Outstanding conversion efficiency
- Natural convection cooling
- Automatic battery voltage recognition-12V & 24V
- Programmable charge algorithm
- Over temperature protection and power de-rating when temperature is high
- Remote temp sensing with Smart Battery Sense
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Smart Battery Sense
The Smart Battery Sense is a wireless battery voltage and temperature sensor for Victron MPPT Solar Charge controllers. It provides the controller with the most accurate readings taken directly from the battery terminals. With this component, there is no error of V readings due to voltage drop through a cable. Additionally, the most accurate temp is used by the controller to determine the proper temperature compensation. Both of these things will extend the lifetime of your battery.
All other Victron solar controllers are also available through OceanPlanet Energy with a slightly longer lead time. Just send us an email and we can help you choose the right one.
Genasun “Boost” MPPT’s
If the panel V is BELOW the battery V
GVB-8A 12/24/36/48V Boost MPPT Controller
- 99% Peak Efficiency
- Continuous MPPT
- Advanced electronic protections
- 5 Year Warranty
- Compatible with lithium and lead-acid batteries
- no remote temperature sensing (must be mounted near your lead batteries)
- Available in a waterproof case shown to the left for an additional $15 for 12V & $9 for 24V