We talked about what solar batteries are, how to calculate the number of photovoltaic cells and what types of semiconductor cells can be used in the construction of solar power plants in the first part of this article. Today we will talk about what other equipment should be included in a home autonomous power supply system and how to choose the best solar inverter, battery and controller for your home.
Types of controllers
Currently, solar power plants are equipped with controllers of three options, these are:
On/Off controller
The cheapest device. A distinctive feature of this type of device is that when a certain maximum voltage is reached, the device disconnects the solar panel from the batteries and charging is suspended. This type of controller is rarely used, because when they are used, the batteries are not fully charged, which has a bad effect on their condition, and in the long term, leads to complete failure. The only advantage of this type is its low cost.
PWM (PWM) – controller
The operation of this type of electronic device is based on pulse width modulation. During operation, a controller of this type, having stopped charging the battery, does not turn off the solar panels, which allows the battery to be fully charged. As a rule, such devices are used in low-power installations, up to 2.0 kW.
MPRT – controller
These are the most expensive devices. The operation of devices of this type is based on the control of peaks reaching the maximum energy level. This type of controller is more efficient in use and reduces the payback period of solar power plants.
Price
A solar power supply system is assembled primarily to save money, so the price of individual parts is a very important point. The proposed options have stood the test of time and are the optimal combination of price/quality:
- Solar controller 20a link to aliexpress (opens in a new window) – cost $20.75 – simple controls, bright LCD display, clear interface. Does an excellent job of charging the battery. PWM technology. It is possible to connect via USB to a computer for setup.
- MPPT Tracer 2210RN Solar Charge Controller Regulator link to aliexpress (in a new window), price $75 – 20A MTTP controller – high-quality and reliable, certified, recognizes day/night. High efficiency – 97%
What controller parameters need to be taken into account
To determine the criteria for choosing a controller, it is necessary to formulate the functions that it performs, these include the following:
- Ensuring the battery is charged;
- Switching off the battery when fully charged in automatic mode;
- Load shutdown at minimum charge in automatic mode;
- Connecting loads when charging is restored;
- Connecting photocells when charging the battery in automatic mode.
Having decided on the functions for which the controller is responsible, we can formulate parameters that must be taken into account when choosing a device.
There are two main parameters:
- The voltage that is detected at the input. The maximum permissible voltage can be 15 - 20% higher than at “idle speed” of the solar panel.
- Rated current indicators. For a PWM controller, this quantitative indicator should be 10% higher than the current indicator during a short circuit in the operation of the solar panel. The MPPT controller is selected by power, which should be higher than the product of the output current of the regulator and the voltage of the entire system, plus 20% of the obtained value, to create a power reserve during periods of active sun.
Modern controller models are equipped with a variety of protective mechanisms and the ability to operate in different modes. The presence of such elements in the design of a particular device does not affect the main parameters when choosing it, but additionally stimulates the purchase of a particular model.
Such protection elements include:
- Reverse polarity protection;
- Input protection against short circuits;
- Protection during loads from short circuit;
- Overheat protection;
- Input protection against high voltage loads;
- Protection against lightning strikes;
- Schemes to prevent night discharge of batteries;
- Electronic fuses.
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New firmware for MAP and IES have been released. The operation and functionality of the inverter and solar controller have been significantly improved. We recommend updating them. Read more here 17/12/2021
Delivery within Moscow and the region is usually free
Installation of autonomous or uninterrupted power supply from the manufacturer:
- warranty for MAP 5 years, for IES 2 years
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NEWS
Attention, PROMOTION! When purchasing a system based on an MAC inverter together with a battery kit at the sales office, the discount on the battery is 10%. The promotion is valid until January 31, 2022.
Retail store phone number where you can find out more details and make an appointment 01/12/2021
Our company has released a video about how MIKROART equipment is produced: The MAP inverter and the IES solar controller are the very first devices in the field of renewable energy developed and manufactured in Russia! 21/01/2022
took part in the HEAT&POWER exhibition from October 26 to 28, 2021, presenting equipment that has long been proven on the market, as well as new developments and solutions.
28/10/2021
Our partner, , released a video about the installation of the TITANATOR 10 kW MAP and its capabilities. Read more here
04/10/2021
The worldwide shortage of semiconductors could last until 2023. As a result, all over the world, including in Russia, users of electronic products are faced with a shortage of goods and rising prices. Read more here
13/09/2021
became a nominee for the second stage of the National Award in the field of environmental technologies “ECOTECH-LEADER 2021” . Read more here
10/09/2021
The ATM-turbo computer is 30 years old! Read more here. 07/22/2021
On June 22-24, at the EXPOCENTER on Krasnaya Presnya, she took part in the international exhibition “RENWEX 2021”: “Renewable energy and electric transport”. Equipment in the field of alternative and uninterruptible power supply was presented, including the new MAP inverter TITANATOR, etc.
17/06/2021
Attention!
New modifications of MAP TITANATOR and MAP TITANATOR UPS inverters are now available for sale 01/06/2021
Dear partners and clients! Due to the ongoing pandemic, our company is operating with some restrictions. Acceptance of equipment for repair, as well as its release from the warehouse, is carried out by appointment. Call: +7 extension 1, +7 (495) 477-54-51 extension 5 . You can also purchase goods at retail +7 03/05/2021
A video has been released on RESTORATION OF THE RARE AMPHIBIAN BRDM-1 FOR VICTORY DAY. WORLD'S FIRST VIDEO OF BRDM-1 AFLOAT. Part 1. Read more here. 01/05/2021
Attention! Resolution No. 299 was issued on the functioning of microgeneration facilities for individuals. and legal persons Now energy sales companies are required to enter into an agreement with you for the purchase of electricity from your solar power plant, etc. It is possible to work on a mutual basis (you gave it to the network during the day and consumed it at night), and if you gave more than you consumed, then you can get about 2 for the excess rub. per kW-hour. A two-way meter will need to be installed. 05/03/2021
Attention! Due to the increase in quality and reliability, the warranty on IES solar controllers of all modifications manufactured from 02/01/2021 will be guaranteed for 2 years. 01/29/2021
Our partners, , presented a project to provide year-round autonomous power supply to a 40 kW eco-village in Crimea. MAES Carbon. 05/03/2020
MAES Carbon insulated container mobile solar-gasoline power plants were released for sale. 12/11/2019
Attention! Due to the increase in quality and reliability, from 07/07/2019 the warranty for DOMINATOR MAP inverters is increased from 2 to 3 years. In addition, if when ordering MAP Pro or MAP HYBRID, if an additional option is selected - installation of a high-efficiency filter, then the warranty will also be increased to 3 years. Read more here. 07/07/2019
A video has been released: Solar-wind power plant 31 kW for a park hotel . Read more here. 2019
A video has been released: Solar power plant 120 kW for an estate and horse farm . Read more here. 07/07/2019
A video has been released: Solar power plant for a house on the fence: uninterrupted power supply and green energy 10 kW! Read more here. 02/06/2019
Attention! We now have the latest type of batteries on sale - sealed, maintenance-free carbon batteries. They have a long service life under deep discharge conditions (15 – 20 years). The number of cycles at 80% discharges for the PLC 12-100 FT series is 1500, for the KRCF 12-170 – 2400. i.e. at a price 1.5 - 2 times higher than that of a gel or AGM type battery, the number of cycles is 4 - 5 times greater. 16/04/2019
A video has been released: BRUTAL ELECTRIC BIKE (CHOPPER MONSTER) AND AUTONOMOUS ELECTRIC SUPPLY AT YOUR HOUSE WITH YOUR OWN HANDS. Read more here. 05/04/2019
The development of cloud-based Malinka software for smartphones based on Android and iOS has been completed, for owners of the DOMINATOR MAP or external Malinka PAK. Read more here. 11/01/2019
A video has been released about a large solar catamaran that covered 5,000 km over the summer. The path was completed using the energy of an 11 kW solar power plant, developed, manufactured and installed by our company. Read more here. 02/12/2018
We have expanded our activities in the field of energy saving. We present the latest development - the NUT MICROART electronic thermostat for temperature control systems, including smart home systems. 22/11/2018
A video has been released about a powerful 27 kW solar power plant based on DOMINATOR 60 kW MAP inverters (3x20) and a 30 kW Sofar network inverter, which provides electricity to a production enterprise mainly from the sun, and guarantees its uninterrupted operation. Read more here. 27/07/2018
Attention! From 2022, subject to installation at stationary sites by our employees (Moscow and Moscow Region), the warranty on the MAP inverter will increase from 2 to 5 years, and on the IES solar controller from 1 to 2 years. Read more here. 09/01/2018
The cartoon “The MAP inverter will help us!” has been released! See here. 01/04/2018
A video has been released called Sea of Positivity, or about traveling on an off-road camper and its design. An off-road camper equipped with everything necessary - from a refrigerator and a gas stove to a solar power station (based on a MAP inverter and a IES solar controller) provides shelter and comfort in the wildest corners of nature. See here. 11/12/2017
Gradually, the scope of application of MAC inverters is growing. These are no longer just private homes or businesses. Now both the army and special services are beginning to increasingly use our equipment. The video can be viewed here 01/10/2017
A short feature film “MAP and Lenin”, or the adventures of St. Petersburg musicians has been released.” The parallels between Lenin's dream of electrification, his hut in which he hid 100 years ago, and the modern electrified "hut" of musicians can make you smile. At the same time, however, serious questions are raised about the influence of personality and progress on the future, i.e. to our present. See the film here 02/09/2017
The feature film “Mind from the Beautiful Far Away” has been released. As it is shown, nothing prevents the Russian MAP uninterruptible power supplies from supplying electricity to the Electronic Mind of the Earth of the future! Read more here 26/05/2017
A modification of the DOMINATOR MAP inverter was developed, most suitable for the UPS (UPS) standard, with an average switching time of 2 - 4 ms. Read more here. 23/03/2017
A video has been released about 7 years of experience in operating a solar power plant with a MAP inverter under conditions of complete autonomy. Read more here 22/02/2017
New cases have been developed for MAP 9 - 20 kW, which can either stand on wheels or be hung on the wall, see here for more details. 18/11/2016
The video “An Unusual Journey: A Solar Power Plant for Divers” has been released. See video here. 10/10/2016
The first solar-powered electric vehicle refueling station in Russia was opened (using equipment from our company). Read more here. 06/10/2016
The REN TV channel, in the program “Honest Repair,” tested our solar power plant and compared it with a gas generator. Read more here. 26/08/2016
A video has been released about a camper traveling to the Volga, equipped with a powerful solar power plant based on the MAP inverters and IES solar controllers we produce for recreation and testing. See video here. 20/07/2016
An experiment was carried out with the burning of one of 2 parallel DOMINATOR MAPs to verify the reliability and survivability of the system. See video here. 23/05/2016
A new solar controller IES 100 V 20 A MPRT has been developed. Read more here. 18/04/2016
A video has been released about testing a solar power plant based on a MAP inverter and a IES solar controller on a raft for river rafting (preliminary testing of operation on the shore). Read more here. 25/03/2016
Announcement of travel with a solar power plant based on an MAP inverter. Read more here. 10/03/2016
The newest DOMINATOR MAC inverter has been developed, with new capabilities. See video here. 20/01/2016
A video has been released on high-performance autonomous portable water purification units for camping conditions, cottages and apartments. See video here. 15/12/2015
Dear Clients! Mobile energy sources are now on sale. You can view them here. 12/11/2015
The XV Russian Energy Forum of the International Exhibition “ENERGY BRICS AND SCO” and the XXI Specialized Exhibition “ENERGY SAVING. LIGHTING ENGINEERING. CABLE" 09/11/2015
A video has been released on the autonomous power supply of the Molodezhnoe farm. See video here. 20/10/2015
Rigorous testing of a solar power plant on the raft of the famous blogger A. Zemsky. See video here. 18/09/2015
A video on autonomous power supply in the city (mobile home) has been released. See video here. 11/09/2015
The power record for autonomous household inverters was broken - a MAC model with a maximum power of 20 kW was released. In this case, the peak power that the inverter can withstand without any consequences is 25 kW. See details here 07/09/2015
Video announcement of an article on the design of inverters. Read more here. 29/07/2015
A video on autonomous power supply for a country house has been released. See video here. 29/06/2015
A new complex for managing and monitoring our equipment and electrical networks has been developed and released. You can learn more about PAK "Malina" here 25/05/2015
Attention , due to the fall in the dollar/ruble exchange rate, prices for many goods have been reduced in May. 12/05/2015
Attention! Promotion in connection with the 15th anniversary of the release of the first Russian inverter (MAP). Send a video with a review of the product and your unique experience of using the company’s devices and receive a 10% discount on future purchases and a gift - Sven Fort Pro surge protector*. The director of the best video will receive a prize - a set (8 pcs) of lithium-iron phosphate batteries 240 Ah * 3.4 V and BMS! You can take part and get a coupon here
18/03/2015
The Third International Exhibition-Forum on Energy Saving and Energy Efficiency ENES 2014 took place. For more details, see here.
01/12/2014
A conference-exhibition “Current issues of energy supply in Crimea and the city of Sevastopol” was held (November 5-8, 2014, Yalta). Read more here.
12/11/2014
Lithium-iron phosphate batteries are available for sale complete with BMS Microart. See details here.
30/07/2014
The 1st solar regatta took place in Russia. See race details here.
26/07/2014
The development of “BMS Microart” for charging lithium iron phosphate batteries has been completed. Read more here
16/06/2014
New software for Android has been released. It allows you to use a communicator or tablet as a remote scoreboard
, displaying the parameters of the MAC inverter. It also allows you to manage the MAP and send SMS based on events and requests.
06/06/2014
New firmware has been released for the solar controller ECO “Energy” MPPT PRO 200/100.
The program has been seriously improved and the error in limiting the power from the joint venture has been corrected. Anyone who purchased a controller before May 13, 2014 and has an SP power of more than 600 W needs to update.
You can download it here. 15/05/2014
The CISOLAR-2014 conference took place. Read more here. 30/04/2014
On the basis of Teplopribor OJSC, tests were carried out on the SIN Energia MAP and other equipment under ultra-low temperature conditions of -50°C. Read more here. 22/04/2014
New software for OS Windows has been released, designed for remote monitoring, setting parameters and controlling MAC SIN “Energy” of all versions. You can download it here. 14/03/2014
A new device has appeared on sale - an automatic phase switch (APS) (transfer of 3 phases to 1 line, for redundancy). 17/10/2013
The first MPPT PRO solar controller developed in Russia was released.
Read more about the tests here. You can download the product data sheet here. 14/08/2013
Dear Clients!
New software has been released for Windows OS with LAN support. You can download it here. 12/08/2013
Dear Clients!
When you hand over MAP-1 to us for recycling in any condition, you will receive a 20% discount on any new SIN MAP.
07/02/2013
New firmware for SIN Pro and HYBRID MAPs has been released. Now it has become possible to work with network inverters connected to the MAC output (now the MAC can control them) - for more details, see here. In addition, the firmware reduces the quality requirements for 220 V sine wave from a mini-power station, etc. 03/06/2013
Register for training here
Dear Colleagues! From May 27, 2013, our company begins to train dealer personnel and other technical aspects of installation and configuration of the equipment offered by us. Training is paid. Upon completion of the course, a certificate is issued. 29/04/2013
The development of a three-phase uninterruptible (autonomous) power supply system based on MAP Energia inverters has been completed. The new complex has a number of significant technical advantages over foreign competitors, and in addition, a lower price. Three inverters of the MAP “Energia” HYBRID modification, equipped with additional interface boards, will be able to work synchronously with 380 V (3x220 V). 24/04/2013
Repair statistics since May 2012 (or rather, their almost complete absence) have shown the very high reliability of the modern modification of MAP SIN “Energia” inverters. In accordance with the increasing level of quality and reliability, a warranty period of 2 years is established for MAP SIN “Energy” inverters. 12/04/2013
Upgrading MAP Pro to HYBRID has become possible for devices based on boards version 9 and higher (done by the service department): 1.3 and 2 kW - 3500 rubles 3 and 4.5 kW - 6000 rubles 6 and 9 kW - 9000 rubles 12, 15, 18 and 20 kW — 18,000 rub. 21/01/2013
To improve the quality of testing of MAP SIN Energy inverters, since November 2012, the Quality Control Department was equipped with thermal imagers. Now overheating of any part can be immediately seen on the screen. 01/11/2012
The most powerful inverter in the world! The maximum power of the MAC SIN Energy Pro inverter has reached 18 kW (rated power 12 kW). Read more here. The cost of the new model is 99,990 rubles. Modification of MAP SIN Energy HYBRID v.1 48-220 18 kW costs 129,000 rubles. 01/10/2012
Photo gallery of some objects where we installed our turnkey equipment 24/09/2012
MAP "Energia": stories from VESTI 24, and aerial photography! VIDEO 24/09/2012
The warehouse and store received 5 kW wind generators, 60 W and 200 W monocrystal solar panels (batteries). No more waiting for the goods! 28/08/2012
MAC protection devices are now on sale, protecting your equipment and preventing damage to inverters and your equipment! 23/08/2012
The first Russian hybrid inverter MAP SIN “Energy” HYBRID v. 1. with powers from 1.3 to 15 kW. Details here 11/07/2012
The price of the highest quality monocrystalline solar batteries (panels) has decreased! details here 02/07/2012
MAP SIN “Energy” is the first inverter that can charge lithium iron phosphate batteries LiFePO4. Details here. 28/05/2012
A 15 kW inverter has appeared in the line of MAP Energia Pro models. to order, lead time 30 days, see email shop. 04/04/2012
The quality control department has been reorganized and strengthened, and personal responsibility for checking devices has been introduced. The quality of devices in the mass series has been significantly improved . Read more here. 03/29/2012
The line of cases for MAP now includes cases for a standard 19-inch rack. Read more here. 03/15/2012
Solar Modules have arrived in our e-shop at very attractive prices! Details here. 02/21/2012
The ENES exhibition took place from November 24 to 26, 2011. Moscow, All-Russian Exhibition Center, Electrification pavilion. 24/11/2011
The magazine “Science and Life” in its August issue published an article “Electricity from Energia”. 01/08/2011
In the “Usage” section there is a video demonstrating welding from a regular car using MAP-SIN 12V-220V 2.0 kW. 03/07/2011
The sales office has received the most durable (service life more than 20 years) batteries OPzS and OPzV (industrial stationary armored) 09/05/2011
Russian solar panels went on sale at a record low price - 120 rubles. per watt, from monocrystalline silicon! High quality workmanship. 18/04/2011
The retail point of sale (sales office) moved to 01/12/2010
Added interesting video material to the “Usage-Installation” section. 10/09/2010
Prices for wind generators have been significantly reduced www.vetrogenerator.ru 14/08/2010
New firmware 10.0 was released for the v.5X MAP-LCD board dated 06/15/2010 and new firmware 9.7 for the v.4.3 MAP-LCD board dated 05/27/2010. What's new in version 10.0 and 9.7 compared to the base version 8.2 can be found here 27/05/2010
Another batch of wind generators of high-quality, reliable design has gone on sale. 24/04/2010
An international exhibition on renewable energy sources (solar and wind) was held on May 25-28, 2010. 20/04/2010
The TV channel “Galileo” was broadcast on the STS TV channel with our participation, where they talked about the equipment we offer. 22/11/2009
A 24V 2kW wind generator was installed for testing. 06/09/2009
Wind generators of improved design, power 0.5, went on sale; 1; 2kW at 24V; 3 and 5 kW at 48V, as well as masts for them. 06/08/2009
A battery charge controller for wind turbines is being prepared for release. 12/02/2009
MAP-LCD went on sale 01/03/2008
A specialized website dedicated to wind generators has started working - www.vetrogenerator.ru. 06/09/2007
Remote control 220V. A controlled network filter-sensor with a relay for connection to the security system <Guardian> has gone on sale. 29/06/2007
WPPs (wind power units) appeared on sale 10/04/2007
The latest security systems are now on sale. 02/04/2007
The exhibition “Small and Renewable Energy” was held (the 3rd international specialized exhibition within the framework of the III International Forum “Energy and Ecology”). Time: 10.25.2006-10.27.2006 Moscow, All-Russian Exhibition Center, p. No. 57, A-21 A-22. 01/11/2006
Solar modules for autonomous power supply have gone on sale. 25/06/2006
Protective devices “Network Monitor” (extension filter with electronic current and voltage protection) have gone on sale. 01/02/2006
SAP "Energy" went on sale (control of the automatic power supply system from a mini-power plant, together with a battery unit and MAP "Energy"). 01/01/2006
is preparing for the release of SAP "Energy" (control of an automatic power supply system from a mini-power plant, together with a battery unit and MAP "Energy"). 01/06/2005
a “network monitor” is being prepared for release, combining the functions of a powerful surge filter and an electronic fuse for current and voltage 16/03/2005
production of MAP "Energia" V9.0 with additional protection against overvoltage at the battery input has begun 02/02/2005
production of voltage stabilizers started 03/04/2004
production of voltage converters with 48V started 02/03/2004
Voltage converter models for 8.8 kW and 12 kW were released 11/01/2004
production of MAP Energy v 7.0 has begun with increased resistance to mains voltage surges exceeding 220V 11/12/2003
A controller has been developed to connect the Energy MAP to a computer. Allows you to change some settings of the latter 22/05/2003
At the request of VNIESKh, a controller for solar panels and wind power plants was developed, installed at the request of the client, in MAP Energia. It is designed for the latter to work together with a power supply and/or wind turbine (charge current up to 80A, voltage up to 300V). 17/01/2003
received PATENT for invention No. 2001125519 (at MAP Energia) 04/11/2002
production of a new version of the converter has begun, which operates more reliably at higher supply voltages (from the battery - generator side) 10/10/2002
production of a new version of the converter has begun, which is also capable of working with powerful pumps and modern refrigerators 28/07/2002
FIPS certificate for utility model was received (MAP "Energia") 03/06/2002
received
compliance N ROSS RU.ME68.B00554 for products of MAP "Energia" 23/05/2002
production of a new version of the converter has begun 25/10/2001
Our new website dedicated to voltage converters (inverters) has started working - 01/10/2001
an application has been submitted to FIPS for patent No. 2001125519 20/09/2001
The development of a new converter model has been completed - MAP "Energia" (new capabilities, full automatic). 22/06/2001
small-scale production of the PNZU-1 model 10/03/2001
the first prototype of the converter was manufactured 30/10/2000
production of a new version of the converter has begun 01.10/2001
Our new website dedicated to voltage converters (inverters) has started working - 01/10/2001
an application has been submitted to FIPS for patent No. 2001125519 20/09/2001
The development of a new converter model has been completed - MAP "Energia" (new capabilities, full automatic). 22/06/2001
small-scale production of the PNZU-1 model 10/03/2001
the first prototype of the converter was manufactured 30/10/2000
How to choose a controller for charging solar panels
To select the required controller, you need to decide which solar panels are installed or planned to be installed. Next, you need to calculate their power, determine what operating voltage they are designed for, and clarify other parameters of the system being formed.
Then they study the parameters required for the controller and link them with the characteristics of the system in which the device will operate. When the technical values are determined and meet the requirements for them, it is necessary to select the country and company of the device manufacturer, and decide from which price range the controller should be selected. Decide on the place of purchase and buy the selected device.
Connection features
- A solar panel.
- A device that controls charge.
- Battery.
- Inverter.
- Electrical network at home.
This circuit must include short circuit fuses and a light bulb.
, which shows the load level. Fuses are installed on wires with a positive charge in front of the battery, light bulb, inverter.
The light bulb and batteries are connected to the charge controller.
This scheme provides for the presence of one solar panel or several operating with the same load.
Several batteries are connected by one wire, the cross-sectional area of which is always greater than 4 mm². If you plan to install several solar panels on the roof of a house, and some of them will be tilted at a different angle, then the connection diagram provides for a controller for each panel.
Practice has shown:
- Monocrystalline ones are capable of generating current for 3 decades or even more.
- Cheaper polycrystalline ones will work for 20 years.
- Flexible panels have a service life of 7-20 years. Products of the first generation have the shortest “life”, products of the second generation have the longest. The main disadvantage is rapid degradation. During the first 24 months of operation, their power drops by 10-40%.
The modules used in large solar stations were able to operate at the same power for 25 years.
The characteristics stated in the description were fulfilled 100%. This indicates the absence of degradation. Some of the panels reduced output by 10%. Manufacturers guaranteed a 20% reduction in output.
Regardless of the period of use, photosensitive elements never lose their performance. That is, 50 years can pass and they can produce the same amount of electricity. The deterioration of production is affected by the destruction of protective films, which allow moisture to penetrate inside the panel and cause corrosion of all connections. This minus leads to an increase in resistance, excessive heating, and destruction of connections. Batteries can last 2-15 years, power electronics - 5-20 years.
Schematic diagrams of solar panels and options for connecting them to control and converting devices are not very complicated. The practical complexity of the general circuit, with specific values of the characteristics of all elements, lies in the correct calculation of the load, setting up the charging controller and the controller for taking energy from other sources.
Using the example of the figure, we will consider some of the nuances associated with the multidirectionality of the panels, which leads to different illumination of the panels. In addition, we will consider the types of ABK charging controllers.
Placing several panels in the same plane does not cause any special problems in circuit design and practical connection. Panels placed in different planes, even close ones, work differently. The more illuminated panel (closer to the maximum power point) generates electricity, part of which is used to heat the other panel, because current flows along the path of least resistance.
And there are two ways to avoid these losses:
- Install your own controller on each panel. It makes sense if these are powerful panels (more than 1 kW) or the panels are spaced over a long distance.
- Install cut-off (blocking) diodes. Some manufacturers equip their panels with diodes and provide their place in the junction box. By the way, inside the panel (panel circuit) there are diodes between the modules (plates), which allows you to obtain maximum power and not “heat” the plate with lower performance.
Another little thing that little attention is paid to is the voltage drop in the wires of the low-voltage part of the system and losses in connections. For example, with a cable length of 1 m and a cross section of 4 sq. mm when passing a current of 80 A with a voltage of 12 V, the voltage drop will be 0.383 V (3.19%) or 30.6 W
In “twists” the drop is 0.1-0.3 V
mm when passing a current of 80 A with a voltage of 12 V, the voltage drop will be 0.383 V (3.19%) or 30.6 W. In “twists” the drop is 0.1-0.3 V.
The red color indicates the mismatch of the transmitted power with the cross-section of the wire, at which strong fire-hazardous heating occurs.
How to make a controller with your own hands
If you have knowledge in the field of electronics and the ability to use a soldering iron, you can make a charge controller from scrap materials yourself. Of course, this will be the simplest type of controller, the so-called “On/Off” controller type.
In the circuit below, the signal received from the solar panels is generated using electronic components. Transistors installed in the circuit control the operation of the latter, resistors regulate the parameters for switching operating modes, and the microcircuits act as an operational amplifier and parameter controller.
Although it is clear from the above diagram that it is not difficult to make such a system element, moreover, the scheme can always be supplemented and modified, but despite its obvious simplicity, it is not recommended to use controllers made with improvised means yourself in order to avoid unfavorable consequences, such as output from building batteries.
Connection options
There are no questions when connecting one panel: minus and plus are connected to the corresponding connectors of the controller. If there are many panels, they can be connected:
in parallel, i.e. connect the terminals of the same name to each other and obtain a voltage of 12V at the output;
sequentially, i.e. connect the plus of the first to the minus of the second, and the remaining minus of the first and plus of the second to the controller. The output will be 24 V.
series-parallel, i.e. use a mixed connection. This means that several groups of batteries are connected to each other. Inside each of them, the panels are connected in parallel, and the groups are connected in series. This output circuit gives the most optimal characteristics.
This video will help you understand in more detail how to connect alternative sources in your home:
Such power plants, using rechargeable batteries, accumulate solar charge for the home and store it, reserving it in battery banks. In America, Japan, and European countries, hybrid power supply is often used.
That is, two circuits operate, one of which serves low-voltage equipment powered by 12 V, the other circuit is responsible for the uninterrupted supply of energy to high-voltage equipment powered by 230 V.
Is it possible to do without a controller for a solar battery?
Sometimes, when independently developing a solar power station, the question arises: is it possible to do without a controller? To answer the question posed, it is necessary to remember the role of this device in the system for converting solar energy into electrical energy. To put it briefly, the controller controls the process of charging batteries.
In the absence of this element of the control circuit, the electrolyte in the battery may boil, which in turn will lead to damage to the battery, the cost of which significantly exceeds the cost of the controller. From this we conclude that operating a solar power plant in automatic mode without a controller is unacceptable.
The only case when it is possible to exclude the controller from the control circuit is the short-term use of solar panels. In this case, a voltmeter is installed in the battery charging circuit and at the moments when the charge reaches peak values, the batteries are manually turned off. After peak loads have passed, the charging circuit, again in manual mode, is put into operation.
Currently, a large number of domestic and foreign companies are engaged in the manufacture of various electronic devices. The cost of controllers of various types ranges from 5.0 to 10.0 thousand rubles, so there is no need to manufacture such a complex electronic device yourself or completely exclude it from the solar power plant control circuit.
Having saved a little, you can lose more if the battery fails, besides, working in automatic mode, which is carried out by a device made by professionals, allows you to save the owner’s time, and in the modern world, when everything flows and happens quickly, this is an important factor. However, everyone makes an individual choice for themselves, fortunately it is a choice, it always exists.
Comments:
Novel
In terms of price, a hand-assembled controller is more expensive than a purchased Chinese one. What's the point of bothering with printed circuit boards and other nonsense?
Sheremet
Roman, it all depends on the tasks assigned. Ready-made options do not always meet equipment requirements. So the craftsmen solder. And the article is good. The information is quite recent and complete
Seryozha
It’s easier for a real radio amateur (not a handyman) to assemble and get a high-quality working device than to buy something from China, it’s not clear, and then finish it with a file and change the capacitors, this will actually turn out to be more expensive
Dima
Novel. Have you seen the Chinese controllers inside? They are made with maximum economy of components. And your collected one can always be improved, extracting the maximum possible energy.
Pilgrim
Why is the video not available? Fucked for disclosing top-secret technologies?
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Battery CTC mode
When the program starts, the battery charge with current Is is turned on. After 1 second, the battery switches to a discharge with current Ii. After another 1 second, the battery switches to charging again. This continues until the voltage reaches Umax - the program stops. CTC indication off. If the voltage rises above Umax by 0.2, the program stops, ERROR is displayed. If the charge or discharge current exceeds the set value by 0.2, the program stops, ERROR is displayed.
If the charging time has expired (parameter H), the program stops, ERROR is displayed in the top line. The bottom line says Time out.
The selected mode is not remembered after disconnecting from the network. When turned on, it is always in charging mode.
