Solar Energy Generation Systems – an overview by Specialized Solar Systems
4. DC-DC CONVERSION (MPPT OR PWM)
All solar panels supply energy in DC format. The DC-DC conversion is normally managed by one of two formats: MPPT (maximum power point tracking) or PWM (pulse width modulation). The difference between the two comes down to cost and efficiency. The MPPT format is typically more efficient. The purpose of this DC-DC control is to ensure that all the generated energy is utilized or stored effectively. If the solar panels are generating energy, the DC-DC control will analyse the condition of the battery storage and supply the generated energy into the storage cells within a fixed program (as designed) for the battery to accept this energy. In the event the batteries cannot accept this energy, then ideally the load consumption will be supplied. Many times this is where the system of energy flow fails. If there is not sufficient load and the batteries cannot accept the energy, then the DC-DC control will halt all energy from the solar panels, until it has somewhere to send this energy. With the correct understanding of your system you will be able to ensure that there will always be somewhere to direct the produced energy.
DC-DC control is programmed to ensure the maximum effect of energy from the solar panels.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SYSTEM?
1. MEASURING YOUR POWER AND ENERGY
Energy is an amount
Power x Time = Energy
(watts) x (hours) = (watt-hours or kilowatt-hours)
Energy is the actual work that is done by electricity. Energy is measured in watt-hours or kilowatt-hours (kWh). This is what a you pay for on your utility bill. Utilities charge for how
much power is consumed over a certain period of time.
