Connecting Solar Panels In Parallel Or Series

Comparing solar panels in series vs.

Connecting solar panels in parallel or series.

Typically solar panels of specific or matching current needs to be connected with each other in series. Connecting more than one solar panel in series in parallel or in a mixed mode is an effective and easy way not only to build a cost effective solar panel system but also helps us add more solar panels in the future to meet our increasing daily needs for electricity. When you connect two or more solar panels like this it becomes a pv source circuit. This kind of a lowering of current would of course cause a loss of power output and eventually loss in equipment efficiency.

The series connection is done by wiring the positive terminal of each panel to the negative terminal of the next panel a connection similar to the ones of the christmas lights until the final panel is connected to the charge controller or inverter. The capacity of a solar panel to produce energy is measured in watts which is calculated by multiplying a solar panel s voltage by the amps of current it produces when a solar installer builds a solar energy system they need to find the right balance of voltage and amps to ensure that the system performs well. When solar panels are wired in series the voltage of the panels adds together but the amperage remains the same. Solar panels are wired in series when you connect the positive terminal of one panel to the negative terminal of another.

Connecting solar panels in parallel. Connecting your solar panel in series vs parallel affects current flow and is dictated by your installation s setup.