How Do You Calculate Charging Current For A Solar Module?
• Use the following formulas. • I=V/R – This is a formula we learned in high school, that still holds relevance today. Current is equal to voltage divided by resistance. • I=P/V – Current is equal to power (in watts) divided by voltage (in volts). If you have a 200 watt panel, with a Voc rating of 44v, you have a panel that is outputting 4.55 amps. • Series versus Parallel – If your panels are wired in parallel, the amperage will remain the same throughout the string. if your panels are wired in series, the amperage will compound throughout the string. • Let’s say you have six 200 watt panels, with a Voc rating of 44v each (44*6 = 264). Your current will still be 4.55 amps, which will be your charging current. • Your charging current can be lower depending on your specific charge controller. Use your charge controller’s specification sheet to determine proper string size to optimize your charge controller.
