As the name suggests the main task of a Charge Controller in a PV (Photo Voltaic) system is to regulate and control the energy that flows from the solar panel to the batteries connected to a grid or an inverter. Solar systems these days are not uncommon, owing their popularity to waste-less, energy efficient and easy to use renewable source of energy. A PV charge Controller is critical for the batteries’ life, as it stops the battery from getting under or over charged. As the batteries are connected to the solar panels to get the required energy to charge, the controllers optimize the power coming and going from them. Batteries too come in different types; lead acid types, dry batteries etc.

How it works?

Voltages coming from the solar panels are not regulated at all, that is there are loads of fluctuations in terms of voltage, amplitude etc. Typically a PV charge controller uses a technology called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to regulate the energy coming from the panels. The controllers also stop the reverse flow of energy when the sun goes down, or during overcast conditions when the solar panels do not produce energy and eventually start drawing power from the batteries eventually leading to complete draining of batteries. The Charge Controllers help in curbing that problem. The controllers also help in maintaining optimum level of charging among the batteries, thus avoiding heating problems arising due to over-charging or drainage in case of under charging.

There has been a phenomenal use of technological evolution in PV charge controllers. These days you would find most of the controllers showcasing LED panels, displaying the vital information pertaining to voltage, charge levels, etc. The controllers are also precision- checked by using micro-processors just like our desktop computers or notebooks.

What to look in a PV Charge Controller?

There are many companies that manufacture PV Solar Charge Controllers, but one must plan in advance before buying it. Factors such as automatic dusk/inclement weather detection, LED Display options, temperature detection and other safety facilities matter a lot. So, never be in haste while buying a charge controller for your PV system. After all, your PV investment is worth it!