PV Gap

Natalie Said:

Why do people say solar panels are too expensive when in CA they lease/install at current electric bill rate?

We Answered:

That is all relatively new many people are not aware of the incentives.

Philip Said:

I have 18v solar panels and want to run a 12vdc system.?

We Answered:

Typically you will want 120% of the battery voltage to place a charge.
This is why a car with a 12V battery has a 14.4 vdc charging current.
There will be a voltage drop from the solar array to the charging controller to bring your 18 volts a bit closer. On a hot day the voltage may drop even closer.

Is this a DC only system or will you be inverting to AC?
2kW @ 18v is a lot of current at a low voltage. Putting the panels in series to build up the voltage would deliver power to the charge controller more efficiently.

How long do you want to be able to run on battery alone?
The length of time or days of autonomy will greatly effect battery bank decisions.

Zachary Said:

solar panels and mcs acceptance?

We Answered:

ya