Wire

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jACKr
jACKr Registered Users Posts: 16 ✭✭
Aloha!
Back about 20 + years ago, wire for PV panels was a different requirement? 6 gauge was the normal.
And, it wired directly to back of panel. 
Now I see 10 gauge on much higher output panels.
Has anyone had to downsize to accommodate the newer technology ? What problems would larger gauge experience, if any?
Mahalo!
jACKr

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  • littleharbor2
    littleharbor2 Solar Expert Posts: 2,046 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Back before MPPT controllers and when 12 volt systems were the norm we were sending high current / low voltage power off the roof from parallel wired array's. Now we can wire all our panels into a single, high voltage / low current string and send it to our MPPT controllers on small gauge wire . There's really no problem using oversized wire between the PV array and Controller or Combiner box as long as it fits into the connectors.

    2.1 Kw Suntech 175 mono, Classic 200, Trace SW 4024 ( 15 years old  but brand new out of sealed factory box Jan. 2015), Bogart Tri-metric,  460 Ah. 24 volt LiFePo4 battery bank. Plenty of Baja Sea of Cortez sunshine.