MPPT controller for 1000W panels

[Emerald Sea]

Our array consists of 3x 327W modules linked in parallel to an Outback FM80 MPPT and is working soundly.

Steve
Emerald Sea

[monte]

Thanks guys, Ive learnt a lot that I thought I already knew enough about! Each of the controller providers has a string tool which will calculate if their controller is adequate for the number, size and type of panel and its interesting to play around with configurations to see what is recommended. It seems parallel wiring is necessary and the victron 85/150 would work, as would the morningstar 60, however the morningstar would effectively cut off at 60A output, which, although a rare occurance, would limit it. Morningstar states it would not harm the controller at all. Im having trouble sourcing the panels here in La Rochelle, although they are available there tends to be a 4-6 week wait.
The panel options are sunpower and BenQ which are both around 20% efficient. Classic style panels are usually around 16%, so an extra 25% W for the same area is worthwhile. Prices are around EURO1.10/W for the BenQ
Id be happy with 750 - 1000W as it would fit on the davits at 1550 deep x 2600 wide or 3150 wide for the larger array.
Emerald, did you put yours on the davits?
Thanks again for all the feedback..

[SVNeko]

Look at Sanyo. Almost as efficient as Sun power but a lot cheaper and more easily sourced.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Cruisers Sailing Forum mobile app

[Emerald Sea]

Monte,
We have a Lagoon 450 and Ive designed and had fabricated a frame thats mounted above the stern cockpit, not on the davits. I posted the dwgs in another CF post however if this is what your looking send me your email address and I can fwd the dwgs and tips. Dimensionally, the array was too large for the davits. This location offer a few additional plus's: sun and rain protection, unobstructed view from my back yard! We've added additional brackets for antennas (wifi, 3G), stern white light, backup GPS, spares.

[monte]

looks liek we will be comprimising as the sunpower and BenQ are hard to come by at short notice, but have a price for Q cell panels 280w (1m x 1.75m) about 18% efficient and just over 1 euro/W im parallel . We will probbaly put 4 on the coachroof and use the Victron 85/150. The maximum array output will be 93A but only in ideal conditions. The victron will handle the excess input and reduce it to 85A. I doubt I would ever see 85A going in anyway and I wouldnt care if I was losing 7A at that stage because the batteries would likely be full in 3 hrs anyway. Ill post a pic when its installed next week.