48 Volt Solar Panels

48 Volt Solar Panels

In this article, we gathered all-inclusive information about 48V solar panels that will aid in the solar power system buying decision.

What are the 48v solar panels?

48 volts solar panels are the best solar panels to get to maximize the supply of solar energy to all home systems. However, if it is not possible to get panels of this voltage, it is recommended to connect solar panels with a lower voltage in series, which still ensures the voltage of 48 volts.

Don’t confuse a 48v solar panel with a 48 watt solar panel by accident. The power of a panel, which is measured in watts, equals voltage multiplied by current. Thus, the fact that the voltage of solar panels is 48v allows them to produce more energy than 12v or 24v panels. The most powerful PV modules are rated at 48 volts. However, it doesn’t immediately mean that you should always go for a 48 volt solar system. 

The choice whether or not you should opt for a 48 volt solar panel system or settle for 24 volt panels depends on your energy needs. Generally, if you want your system to produce more than 5 kW, it is best to go for 48v solar panels. Nowadays, big houses, especially off-grid, tend to use 48 volt solar panels. Keep in mind that your inverter has to be compatible with the voltage of this system to be used. A 48V solar panel can be used with a 12V system if you choose the right equipment for it — a controller and an inverter. The 48 volt solar panel price is generally a bit higher than the one of 24V modules which are currently more popular for residential installations.

The average price of 48V solar panels

On our website, you will find a vast variety of 48V solar panels that are suitable for any budget. The price range for this type of solar panel is from $175 to $550. Of course, the price of a 48V solar panel system highly depends on the brand.

While you can get a product of a good quality at a low price, keep in mind that solar panels are a long-term investment. On average, in the USA they pay back for themselves in 7-8 years, so don’t let 48v solar system cost discourage you. You can check out the 48V solar panel price list on our website by selecting all the necessary search filters for products. Contact our managers for all necessary information about 48 volt solar panels for sale.

Batteries suitable for 48v solar panels

All the batteries that we offer are suitable for 48v solar panels. They differ by their capacity and manufacturer. Check your battery and your 48v solar panel specifications to see if they can work well together.

48v solar panels connection

The wiring of several solar panels to each other can be performed in a few different ways depending on your situation.

In parallel

Solar panels are connected in parallel using special equipment: branch connectors and a combiner box. All negative terminals are connected to one connector and all positive terminals are connected to the other connector.

With this connection, the voltage of every solar panel stays the same. The amperage from all panels adds up. This type of connection allows to increase the amperage of the whole solar power system without raising the voltage. For example, parallel wiring allows a system of solar panels 48V to retain the voltage at 48 Volts.

In series

When connecting solar panels in series, the negative terminal of the first solar panel is connected to the positive terminal of the next solar panel, and so on.

With this type of wiring, the voltage of all panels adds up. The amperage of the system is equal to the amperage of the panel with the minimum amperage. For this reason, it is not recommended to connect solar panels with different values of the maximum current in series, since they will not work efficiently.

Series-parallel

This type of connection combines the two previous ones. Applying this method of wiring solar panels allows for regulation of the voltage and amperage within the solar power system and its most optimal mode of operation. For example, if you have a 48v solar system, series-parallel connection allows you to add a charge controller with a rather low maximum voltage threshold by increasing current.

In series-parallel connection, solar panels are connected in series and then combined in parallel.

How to choose the right 48v solar panel

Choosing the best 48v solar panel can be tricky. As with any solar panel, there are a few important factors that need to be taken into consideration before buying a 48V solar panel. All the 48V solar panels for sale available on the market differ according to the following criteria:

• The efficiency of the solar panel
• Power tolerance
• Low-temperature coefficient and performance in low irradiance
• Warranty
• The type of solar cells
• Price