Silma

Even if I went by Vmp it would still be over 20A (20.68A). My understanding is that panels can produce over the Vmp due to temperature and edge of cloud effect. So a safety factor is always needed. But we are all agreed that a 30A controller is needed. The controller on bimble can handle 150V output from the panels so my max of 67V is well within the limit. Thanks very much for the help, it is much appreciated

Great, thank you for the replies. You guys have convinced me that a MPPT is the way to go and will be worth the extra money. So the follow up question is can you recommend and controllers/makers? Some quick calculations with my panels wired in series Voc = 22.09 * 3 = 66.27V Stepped down to 14.5V would give Imp = 24.36A So I need a 30A controller that can handle 300W max PV input. There is one on Bimble Solar that seems to fit the bill and it has good reviews on Amazon. It is a cheap chinese one though... http://www.bimblesolar.com/offgrid/mppt/30amppt

Hello, So I have read a lot on forums about how PWM and MPPT charge controllers work and their pros and cons. There seems to be a lot of disagreement whether a MPPT controller is worth the extra money for systems in the 200-500W range. This is where my chosen panels lie. My system is: 3 x 100W panels each at Vmax = 18.75V Voc = 22.09V Imp = 5.33A feeding 3 x 110ah leisure batteries So what I am asking is has anyone got any experience/advice on each type of charge controller and is an MPPT worth the extra money? I guess I should also say that the boat is a live aboard mostly in and around London. Thanks in advance