Series Parallel Connection Of Solar Panels

Wiring batteries and solar panel in series parallel configuration.

Series parallel connection of solar panels.

When doing a series parallel connection you are essentially paralleling 2 or more equal strings together. Wiring solar panels in parallel causes the amperage to increase but the voltage remains the same. With parallel solar panels the positive terminal from one panel is connected to the positive terminal of another panel and the negative terminals of the two panels are connected together. This is called a string.

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. Parallel circuits have multiple paths for the current to move along. Parallel series or a combination of the two in this article we ll give you the basics on wiring solar panels in parallel and in series. 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.

For example if you installed 5 solar panels in series with each solar panel rated at 12 volts and 5 amps you d still have 5 amps but a full 60 volts. You may think what is the purpose of this weird combination of series and parallel connection of both solar panels and batteries instead of simple series or parallel configuration well it depends on the system needs i e. When installing solar panels in series the voltage adds up but the current stays the same for all of the elements. Every time you group panels together in series whether is 2 4 10 100 etc.

When connecting multiple solar panels in a 12 48 volt off grid system you have a few options. A series parallel connection is accomplished by using both a series and a parallel connection. Let s start off with a quick comparison of parallel circuits and series circuits.