In solar energy systems, you may come across the term MPPT, which stands for Maximum Power Point Tracking. MPPT is a technology embedded in inverters and charge controllers, and it plays a crucial role in maximising the energy output from solar panels.
What Does an MPPT Do?
Solar panels generate direct current (DC) power, but their output can vary due to changes in sunlight, orientation, temperature and shading. Each panel has a “maximum power point”, a combination of voltage and current at which it produces the highest possible power. MPPT technology continually tracks this point to ensure the system captures the maximum energy, adjusting the voltage and current to keep the system operating as efficiently as possible.
How Does MPPT Work?
MPPTs work by dynamically adjusting the electrical operating point of the solar panels to match the conditions. Here’s a simplified explanation:
1. Monitoring Panel Output: MPPTs continually check the voltage and current being produced by the panels.
2. Adjusting Operating Point: If conditions change, such as a drop in sunlight due to clouds, the MPPT recalculates the ideal voltage-current combination to find the new maximum power point.
3. Increasing Energy Harvest: By adjusting to the optimal operating point, MPPT maximises the amount of power drawn from the solar panels, especially in less-than-ideal conditions.
Where is MPPT Used?
- Microinverters and Power Optimisers: Each of these typically has its own MPPT, allowing each panel to operate at its optimal point independently. This setup is ideal for systems where panels may face different directions or experience shading, as each panel can perform independently of the others.
- String Inverters: Basic string inverters might have a single MPPT, meaning all panels connected to the inverter must operate under similar conditions. However, advanced string inverters offer multiple MPPTs (often dual MPPTs), allowing for different groups of panels to have their own optimal operating points. This is helpful for installations with multiple roof orientations.
- Charge Controllers in Off-Grid Systems: MPPT is also crucial in off-grid systems with battery storage, where MPPT controllers ensure that the batteries are charged efficiently, even when the solar input is variable.
Why is MPPT Important?
MPPT is a key factor in optimising energy output from solar systems, as it maximises energy harvest by continuously adapting to changing environmental conditions. For homeowners and businesses, this means better system performance and more savings over time, especially in scenarios with partial shading or multiple roof orientations.
I-V Curve
Key Benefits of MPPT
- Higher Energy Yield: By tracking the maximum power point, the MPPT ensures that each solar panel or array segment operates at its highest efficiency.
- Improved Performance in Suboptimal Conditions: MPPTs are especially beneficial on cloudy days, in partially shaded conditions, or in installations with multiple panel angles.
- Greater Flexibility in System Design: Systems with multiple MPPTs allow panels to be installed in different orientations and angles, making complex layouts feasible without sacrificing efficiency.
Conclusion
MPPT technology is essential in modern solar systems for getting the best possible output from each panel. Whether in microinverters, optimisers, or string inverters with multiple MPPTs, this feature ensures that even in challenging conditions, your system captures as much energy as possible. For those looking to maximise their solar investment, understanding the role of MPPT can help guide equipment choices and overall system design.
Looking to maximise efficiency for your solar installations? Discover our blog on the Top 5 Benefits of Microinverters. Whether you’re considering APsystems, Solax, or Tigo, we’re here to support you with the latest solar technology. Our proud partnerships with these industry leaders provide advanced MPPT technology to enhance the performance of your solar projects.
