Panel array sizing question for Inergy Flex power station

[Garage Solar]

Hi all -

The Inergy Flex 1500 with two batteries has about 2000wh capacity. The MPPT controller in the unit has a 90v limit, and limits input amps to 30. What is an ideal wattage/voltage/series-parallel panel array? The Flex with one battery has a "kit" option with four 100-watt 12v panels. I want to set up an efficient set of panels for recharging a Flex with two batteries, but eight 100-watt panels seems like a lot to deal with in terms of space and wiring.

What about three 200-watt 12v panels, rated at 11.6 amps/17-18v? Both series and parallel hookups seem to be within the Flex's voltage/amp limits.

All suggestions appreciated!

GS

 

[svetz]

Watts is watts, so as long as you get what you need and don't exceed the MPPT's capabilities you should be good. Having all the same panels will make things easier too.

These threads might be of interest:

• What does it mean to have solar panels in parallel and series?
• How to figure out how much Solar and inverter wattage is needed to charge a battery
• Figuring out how many panels in series and parallel based on your MPPT

 

[Garage Solar]

Thanks, svetz, that helps. "Watts is watts", I'll remember that.

It seems that it's okay to "overpanel" as long as you stay within the voltage input limits of the controller. With the Flex 1500, 90v is the limit for a unit with a single controller, but they say that you can exceed the 30-amp input limit without any harm - it won't charge faster, but the extra amps just don't do any good.

 

[MaximusSolar]

Hello I’m new to the forum and very interested in purchasing the flex. Is the main unit of The flex a battery with 500 and the battery pack is 1000 for a total of 1500 battery power? I already ordered the BLUETTI AC200 but after I also heard about the flex with 10 year battery warranty. So I’m thinking of getting both so my other question is what would be the best solar to mount on a small shed to power both the Blueetti AC200 and the Flex 1500. Since I would like to alternate charging as backup power supply. Thanks

 

[Garage Solar]

Hi Maximus,

The Flex battery is completely separate from the controller/output console. The "1500" designation is for the inverter rating (1500 watts continuous running, 3000 watts momentary surge).