Solar Charge Controller

Veracruz
Veracruz Registered Users Posts: 1
I purchased a 100w solar panel and I did some research and it seems that I need a 10a solar charge controller for this panel.  Can I use a 20a controller instead?  Will using a higher amp affect the amount of power I can store?

Thanks

Comments

  • Estragon
    Estragon Registered Users Posts: 4,496 ✭✭✭✭✭
    Using a 20a controller should be fine.  Output should be about the same as a 10a, maybe slightly better if there's less internal heating with the bigger capacity controller.
    Off-grid.  
    Main daytime system ~4kw panels into 2xMNClassic150 370ah 48v bank 2xOutback 3548 inverter 120v + 240v autotransformer
    Night system ~1kw panels into 1xMNClassic150 700ah 12v bank morningstar 300w inverter
  • stellaa9x
    stellaa9x Registered Users Posts: 1
    edited July 2020 #3
    yes, thanks Estragon, I have the same question.
  • MichaelK
    MichaelK Registered Users Posts: 234 ✭✭✭
    Another advantage of using the larger amperage controller, is if you decide you want to generate more power, then you can add more panels. Let's say the panel you own now puts out 5amps.  With the 10amp controller you can only add 1 additional panel.  With the 20amp you could add 3.
    System 1) 15 Renogy 300w + 4 250W Astronergy panels,  Midnight 200 CC, 8 Trojan L16 bat., Schneider XW6848 NA inverter, AC-Delco 6000w gen.
    System 2) 8 YingLi 250W panels, Midnight 200CC, three 8V Rolls batteries, Schneider Conext 4024 inverter (workshop)