This article is a comprehensive guide about MPPT solar inverters; keep reading to learn the magic of MPPT technology!
What is MPPT and How Does It Work?
MPPT optimizes solar panels' power output while adjusting their operating point to match the voltage and current for maximum efficiency, given fluctuating sunlight intensity and temperature. MPPT solar inverter systems attain this with a DC-DC converter, which monitors the panel's power curve and fine-tunes the load to the PV array.
On the other hand, it may increase the voltage during peak sunlight to balance voltage and current. Unlike simple fixed or step-based methods, MPPT employs algorithms, including Perturb & Observe or Incremental Conductance, which respond to changes in real-time in partially shaded conditions.
That's where multiple maximum power points can appear due to uneven shading across panels. It decreases energy losses, so the solar inverter can convert more of the DC to AC for the system's efficiency and yield without supplementary hardware in a standard PV setup.
Advantages of Multi MPPT Inverters
The Concept of Multi MPPT Inverters
A multi-MPPT solar inverter uses multiple MPPT inputs to extract power from multiple PV arrays, even when conditions vary across panels. Unlike single MPPT inverters, multi-MPPT inverters can manage individual strings of panels independently. It is important for installations where arrays face erratic shading, orientation, or tilt.
The Benefits of Multi MPPT Inverters
Multi MPPT solar inverters realize improved energy harvest by adjusting for shade or angle variations, a scenario in dense urban setups. It can increase total system output in regions with capricious weather patterns. Also, the inverters augment system reliability while isolating issues within a single MPPT channel.
Scenarios Where Multi MPPT Inverters are Particularly Advantageous for Indian Users
In India, rooftop solar installations may contend with complex layouts. Here, multi-MPPT solar inverters address challenges in urban and rural settings. E.g., partial shading is almost unavoidable in cities with dense, irregularly spaced buildings at certain times. However, multi-MPPT inverters preserve energy production while individually tracking each affected panel group.
Besides, in states with weather conditions, from the foggy winters of North India to the monsoons in the South, the inverters can adjust to fluctuations in sunlight to capture more energy for a stable output. Last but not least, multi-MPPT systems also aid rural electrification projects. Panels are set up in limited spaces with differing orientations due to land constraints; a single MPPT setup is impractical.
Sungrow's Multi MPPT Inverter
In designing the 125CX-P2 MPPT solar inverter, we accomplished a high yield with a 98.5% max efficiency using 12 MPPTs. Such granularity optimizes performance in larger, complex PV systems with mixed shading or orientations.
With IP66 and C5 anti-corrosion ratings, it suits challenging environmental conditions. We've integrated Type I+II and Type II surge protection for DC and AC sides alongside AFCI 2.0 to decrease risks from electrical faults. Likewise, our IV Curve Diagnosis guarantees inclusive, remote monitoring so users can spot efficiency drops before they impact the system's output.
The SG320HX MPPT solar inverter boosts power density with 16 MPPTs at a 99% efficiency for higher voltage, 1500 Vdc installations. Each MPPT handles up to 40A to integrate with 500Wp+ modules, which confirms output in high-power setups. Notably, the inverter's two-in-one DC connection decreases cabling complexity and increases energy flow.
Using PLC communication cuts wiring needs and expenses for solar farms. For ease of O&M, touch-free commissioning and smart string detection allow remote configuration and troubleshooting.
Conclusion
At Sungrow, we develop expert MPPT solar inverter technology for high efficiency and reliability in multiple scenarios. Smart cooling and grid-friendly functionalities boost energy collection and grid integration in our MPPT inverters, which approach 99% efficiency.
Besides, our liquid-cooled energy storage lowers operating costs and extends cycle life like the PowerTitan. We also pioneered floating PV systems for aquatic settings with special anti-corrosion and stability properties. Our R&D enables us to develop optimal uptime and lower TCO in solar and storage applications. Contact us now to embrace MPPT technology and more solar solutions!
Reference
[1] Renewable Energy. Available at: https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/renewable-energy. (Accessed: 10th, October)