What is an MPPT Solar Charge Controller?

The process of power generation using solar panels generates a higher output than your battery can handle. To keep your backup system functioning, you need to control the power flow to the battery for efficient storage. The solar charge controller is the device that allows you to complete this task. So, what is an MPPT solar charge controller?

The MPPT solar charge controller is a DC-to-DC converter used in a solar power system. It takes voltage from your solar panel as input and converts it to a proper level to charge your battery. In Bangladesh, you can explore different solar charge controllers. It optimizes the voltage generated by the solar panels and boosts the efficiency of the whole system.

How Does the MPPT Charge Controller Work?

The efficiency of your solar system boosts when the power generation matches the level of your batteries. If the power input goes higher than the battery level, you lose most of the generated energy. Again, if the input is too low, your battery won’t charge properly. 

Doing this job manually is very complicated and can go over the heads of ordinary people. This is where the MPPT comes into play. This controller constantly monitors all the inputs and maintains the optimal balance. Then it regulates the flow of current generated from the panels and the voltage of the batteries. It continuously adjusts these levels to ensure the efficient operation of your solar system.

MPPT vs PWM Solar Charge Controller

MPPT and PWM are the two major solar charge controllers in the market. The alternative to the MPPT controller is the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) controller. It functions using a transistor that rapidly turns on and off to control the panel’s current.

The major difference between these two controllers lies in the aspects they work on. An MPPT controller works on both current and voltage. Where the PWM controller just regulates the current flow. To put it simply, the MPPT controller provides you with optimal power output. On the other hand, the PWM controller only allows you to reduce the current going into your battery. So, the PWM will reduce the performance of your solar panel when charging your battery. The MPPT takes the win as it rebalances the difference and enhances efficiency.

Benefits of MPPT Solar Charge Controller

The MPPT solar charge controller is known far and wide as it elevates the performance and efficiency of solar systems. Here are some major benefits of the MPPT charge controller.

Efficient Power

Since the MPPT regulates both voltage and ampere, it will help store more of the rated wattage for solar panels. To collect most of the power generated by your solar panels, efficiency is the key. And, using an MPPT controller is the only way to maximize it.

Less Dependent on Weather

The major reason for storing solar-generated power is to use the stored energy when the sun is not shining. In gloomy weather, the maximum power point keeps changing throughout the day. The more you miss the balance, the less effective the operation of your solar system gets. The MPPT solar charge controller adjusts according to the weather. 

Reduces the Number of Required Solar Panels

When you harvest more energy from each solar panel, you need fewer panels to get the needed energy. As the MPPT boosts efficiency, you need fewer panels in your solar array to generate the same amount of energy. At the most basic levels, it saves money by reducing the required number of solar panels. You can focus on the best place to set up your panels, even if you have a small space.

More Effective for Large Systems

The more your solar system grows, the more optimal output becomes important. Since no solar system can be 100% efficient, converting as much power as possible is the main goal. Suppose one solar panel wastes about 20% of energy. So, if you are using two panels, the waste of energy is double! Using an MPPT solar controller will reduce this waste of energy and amplify the usable amount of power.

What is the Price Range of Solar Charge Controller? 

If you want to know where to find the best solar charge controller price in Bangladesh, we can help. You can look at a huge selection of digital solar charge controls at IPS Bazar. Our products can be sent to your home in Bangladesh from anywhere in the country. With great deals and savings, it’s easy to buy the newest solar charge controller designs. For each type, the solar charge controller has its own set of features. 

Some of the IPS Bazar solar charge controllers are –

• SRNE Shiner 12V/24V 20A MPPT Solar Charge Controller
• SRNE Shiner 12V/24V 30A MPPT Solar Charge Controller
• SRNE Shiner 12V/24V 40A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

The cost varies from BDT 2,000 to BDT 14,000 depending on the type and size. Solar charge controllers come in 10A, 20A, 30A, and 40A versions, so you can choose the one that fits your needs and your budget.

Is the MPPT Solar Charge Controller Worth It?

The worth of anything highly depends on the use case, motive, and requirements of the user. You have to compare the price, pros, and cons with other available options in the market to get the answer. Talking about the MPPT controllers, it depends on whether the benefits and energy production are enough to justify the cost.

Suppose you are setting up a small solar system for camping in the night. Or maybe you live in a location where cloudy or gloomy weather is a rare case. In these cases, the advantages of an MPPT controller may not be very impactful in your usage. 

But, in large-scale usage, using the MPPT charge controller can be highly beneficial. So, buy solar system today according to your use case and required power output.

In a Nutshell

Solar panels are considered a big investment for your home to keep your life comfortable. If your solar system is not well optimized, it will cost you more than it’s worth.

Therefore, if you are planning for a mid to large-scale solar power system, consider using an MPPT solar charge controller. It will benefit you in the long run and get you a quick Return On Investment (ROI).

FAQs

What is the purpose of an MPPT charge controller?

The main goal of an MPPT solar charge controller is to track the maximum power point of the solar panel to boost its effectiveness and efficiency. 

What is the range of the MPPT controller?

The range of the MPPT controller depends on the model and manufacturer. Normally, you can see an MPPT with a range starting from 80V to 600V.

Can an MPPT increase voltage?

An MPPT controller continuously adjusts the load of the solar panels to optimize the voltage. Increasing the load will reduce the voltage and decreasing the load will increase the voltage.