Victron Smartsolar MPPT 100/50 12v

[Scotty79]

I am planning two pairs of 3 x 12v 100w solar panels in series and then connecting them in parallel so a 3s2p solar array.

Am I correct in thinking that my Victron 100/50 solar controller will be able to handle this setup? I've estimated it should be around 72.9v at 10.4a going into the charge controller maxing out at 600w.

My solar panels are these: https://uk.renogy.com/renogy-100-watt-12-volt-monocrystalline-solar-panel-compact-design/

SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Power at STC: 100W
Cell Efficiency: 22%
Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp): 20.4V
Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc): 24.3V
Optimum Operating Current (Imp): 4.91A
Short-Circuit Current (Isc): 5.21A
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 176°F
Maximum Series Fuse Rating: 15A
Maximum System Voltage: 600V DC (UL)

I will be using 2 x LiFePo4 12v 100ah batteries in parallel.

Any help or advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[mikefitz]

In theory 600 watts of solar at a 12v charge voltage is 50 amps, so the100/50 is a good choice. In practice the charge voltage will be in the mid to high 13 volts range over most of the charge period. This, with conversion losses and often less than ideal output from the panels suggests, a maximum around 40 amps.
The Victron Smart MPPT is a top grade unit, with comprehensive features acessible via the app.

Mike

 

[RV8R]

That is what I have @ my Cabin Victron 100 | 50 & 6 - 100W panels 3S2P

Works great for me ?

Got 600W out of it once;

 

[Bluedog225]

Another vote for the victron smart series. Good kit.

 

[chrisski]

The Victron 100/50 is a great choice for 6 x 100 watt panels.

Next year, when it’s not enough power,it will be a great choice for 12 x 100 watt panels. The only drawback, is it can’t do 48 volts, but if you don’t see yourself needing 24 x 100 watt panels, this is a non issue. Going to a 48 volt charge controller is a bit of a jump in price.

After you install it, you can get data and may be able to add more panels based off actual performance. My 6 x 100 watt panels flat in the roof of my RV do not deliver the same power as if they were tilted to the ideal angle, so actual performance means I could safely double the amount of panels installed.

 

[Scotty79]

Thanks for your advice, pleased it should be fine. Any ideas on how the 150/35 would work for the same setup? I bought that and will return it when the 100/50 arrives tomorrow. Thanks again.

 

[RV8R]

Thanks for your advice, pleased it should be fine. Any ideas on how the 150/35 would work for the same setup? I bought that and will return it when the 100/50 arrives tomorrow. Thanks again.

I did not look into the 150 | 35.

I assume the Victron numbering system is the same as the 100 | 50, which indicates 100 being the max panel voltage “in” & the 50 being the max charging amps out to the batteries.

So I think you purchased the right unit as the 150 | 35 I assume can take a higher array voltage, but only provide 35 amps of charge to your batteries.

The batteries I have can take a 50amp charge quite well. My limiting factor is “The Sun”.

That being said, these systems & their effectiveness & efficiency depend upon the design of the entire system & not just one component. Thus not one size fits all.

The nice thing(s) about the Victron 100 | 50 are;

User Programable & different battery chemistries
12v & 24v battery capable (700W @ 12v & 1400W @ 24v). So if you alter your components you might still be able to keep it in an upgraded system.

 

[Scotty79]

I did not look into the 150 | 35.

I assume the Victron numbering system is the same as the 100 | 50, which indicates 100 being the max panel voltage “in” & the 50 being the max charging amps out to the batteries.

So I think you purchased the right unit as the 150 | 35 I assume can take a higher array voltage, but only provide 35 amps of charge to your batteries.

The batteries I have can take a 50amp charge quite well. My limiting factor is “The Sun”.

That being said, these systems & their effectiveness & efficiency depend upon the design of the entire system & not just one component. Thus not one size fits all.

The nice thing(s) about the Victron 100 | 50 are;

User Programable & different battery chemistries
12v & 24v battery capable (700W @ 12v & 1400W @ 24v). So if you alter your components you might still be able to keep it in an upgraded system.

Since I started getting my setup together it's nothing but grey depressing skies in the UK :O(

 

[chrisski]

Thanks for your advice, pleased it should be fine. Any ideas on how the 150/35 would work for the same setup? I bought that and will return it when the 100/50 arrives tomorrow. Thanks again.

The 150/35 will work fine for your six panels, a bit overkill for a 12 volt system since it is if I remember right $100 more than to 100/50. Keep these numbers in mind for future upgrades. If your max out the controller with panels, not the six you have:

The 150/35 will charge up to:

-48 volts, which is 1680 watts
-24 volts, which is 840 watts
-12 volts which is 420 watts

The 100/50 will charge up to:

-48 volts, which is 2400 watts
-24 volts, which is 1200 watts
-12 volts which is 600 watts

I started my plan with 600 watts of panels, and currently have 2550 watts of panels, but I’d like to add at least 600 watts more.

 

[mikefitz]

There is no advantage using the 150/35 with your 6 off 100 watt panels as you will be loosing out on power yield under good solar conditions with a maximum of 35 amps Into the battery.
The 100/50 for less money, could deliver up to 50 amps.

Mike