What is the Difference Between Connecting Solar Panels in Series or in Parallel

By: Author James Smythe

Posted on 18th August 2023

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I am currently in the process of reviewing the EcoFlow 100W flexible solar panel, which I hopefully will end up using as part of the new Balcony Solar System that EcoFlow has developed and using in conjunction with the EcoFlow Delta 2 series as a DIY way to set up your own home solar system.

When you use multiple solar panels that use the MC4 type solar connectors, you can wire up multiple solar panels to work as one.

There are two ways to wire up solar panels, either in series or parallel. The two different methods have pros and cons, and some portable power stations only work with parallel connections, so you need to consider how you plan to wire up multiple solar panels.

Solar panels can be interconnected in two primary ways: series or parallel. Each approach comes with its unique advantages, tailored to varying setups and environments. Here’s a detailed comparison to guide your decision-making.

In a series configuration, solar panels are connected end-to-end. In this setup, the total voltage of the system sums up the voltage of each panel. For instance, if you use four panels, each with a voltage of 12 volts (V), your system's total voltage would be 48V (12V multiplied by 4). However, the current (amps) remains constant in a series connection.

In parallel wiring, solar panels are connected side-by-side. This is achieved by linking all positive terminals together and all negative terminals together. These combined terminals then connect to your power station. In this configuration, while voltage remains steady, the amps aggregate.

The decision between series and parallel connections hinges on your desired output, efficiency, energy needs, and other factors.

Harnessing solar energy is contingent on the sun's availability. Consequently, any shading can diminish your home solar system's efficacy.

Sunlight, though a plentiful and renewable source, is not uniform everywhere. The UK is known for its overcast skies and inclement weather. Obviously, any drop in exposure to the sunlight will reduce the performance of your solar panels.

While you can't change the sun's availability in your locality, you can optimize your panels' placement. Aim for obstruction-free areas, such as rooftops distant from towering trees.

If avoiding obstructions isn’t feasible, you can still tweak your setup to enhance efficiency. For panels that occasionally find themselves in the shade, parallel wiring is advisable. This configuration ensures each panel functions autonomously, enabling some panels to harness sunlight even if others are shaded. Thus, unobstructed panels still operate at their peak.

Therefore, in my scenario, I have opted to go with parallel wiring.

To set up solar panels in parallel, link the positive terminals from each panel to one another, and, similarly, connect all the negative terminals. In this configuration, the combined current will represent the total amperage of all panels in the array. Yet, the overall voltage will match the output of just one panel.

In order to do this, you will need to use a Y-branch parallel adapter which you can buy cheaply on Amazon.

I am a UK tech blogger and have been in the industry for over 10 years now, running Mighty Gadget and its sister sites and contributing to other sites around the web. I am passionate about all tech, including mobile, wearables, and home automation. I am also a fitness fanatic, so I cover as much fitness tech as possible.

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Last update on 2023-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Posted on 18th August 2023

Categories Power Stations & Solar