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How to Use Our Solar Panel Configuration Calculator

Step 1: Get the Solar Panel’s Specification

First, you’ll need to locate the solar panel’s specifications. It’s usually found on a label on the back of the solar panel. The label contains crucial information about the panel, including its manufacturer, model number, and electrical characteristics such as:

• maximum power output (Pmax),
• voltage at maximum power (Vmp),
• current at maximum power (Imp),
• open-circuit voltage (Voc), and
• short-circuit current (Isc).

Step 2: Enter the Solar Panel’s Voltage

Next, enter the panel’s voltage (usually listed as Vmp or Voltage at Max Power) into the calculator.

Step 3: Enter the Solar Panel’s Current

Enter the panel’s current (usually listed as Imp or Current at Max Power) into the calculator.

Step 4: Enter the Quantity of Panels with that Specification

Input the number of panels with the same specifications. For example, for three 200W panels, enter “3”.

Step 5: Enter Additional Panel Specifications on Separate Lines

If your array includes panels with different specifications, enter each on a separate line.

Step 6: Interpreting the Results

The calculator will show multiple wiring configurations and their corresponding outputs. Use this information to choose the optimal configuration.

Maximum Total Power Output

This represents the maximum power the panels could produce in the best configuration.

All Panels Wired in Series

Displays output when all panels are wired in series. The % loss indicates any loss compared to maximum total power.

All Panels Wired in Parallel

Displays output when all panels are wired in parallel. The % loss indicates any loss compared to maximum total power.

Mixed configuration – Each spec wired in series, then all together in Parallel

Displays output when identical panels are first wired in series, then those series are combined in parallel. The % loss indicates any performance loss compared to maximum total power.

Mixed configuration – Each spec wired in parallel, then all wired together in Series

Displays output when identical panels are first wired in parallel, then those parallel arrays are connected in series. The % loss indicates any performance loss compared to maximum total power.

Consider Removing a Solar Panel

If one panel’s lower current hinders overall output, consider removing it to improve array performance.