In India, our energy consumption behaviour is characterized by many families that rely on inadequate and non-renewable energy sources. Therefore, the path to India’s progress and development in terms of energy production is one of sustainability. Solar energy is a well-known sector that contributes to India’s long-term viability for sustainable energy production. Primarily because of its location in the tropical region, India has a huge potential for solar energy.
Using renewable energy for our homes is the next best step to a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle. This is where solar systems help us live a more sustainable lifestyle as such systems eliminate the use of fossil fuels in power generation. Additionally, it also reduces the electricity bills, as you can generate your own power using solar panels and other components of a solar system. The solar panels store and convert direct sunlight into electricity that people use for appliances.
The best part is – installing a solar power system is as simple as it gets. All you need to do is buy the ideal solar power system and ensure that you have some space on your rooftop to install it. While it may seem that investing in a solar power system is expensive, in reality, your investment provides you steady return in the long term. How so? Well, your investment enables savings on electricity bills.
Nonetheless, if you are not in a position to buy a new solar power system, what options do you have? In such a case, it is best to purchase a solar charge controller.
What Is A Solar Charge Controller?
In the simplest of terms, a solar charge controller is a regulator that ensure your battery is not overcharged. Typically, all batteries have a voltage capacity rating, and exceeding that voltage can result in long-term battery degradation and loss of performance. This is where solar charge controllers operate as a restriction gate for your battery storage system, ensuring that it is not overloaded.
Charge controllers are installed majorly in rural areas where there is minimal or no electricity available and can be used to run DC appliances..
Types Of Charge Controllers
There are two types of charge controllers that are present in the market: PWM (pulse width modulation) controllers and MPPT (maximum power point trackers).
PWM charge controller is usually reasonably priced and suitable for smaller solar systems. Meanwhile, the MPPT solar charge controllers are more advanced and priced on a slightly higher side. However, they enable maximum output from the solar panel and are suitable for large capacity solar systems.
The type of charge controller which is best for you depends on your requirement of capacity and size is. First, let us look at some of the top-selling charge controllers by reputed brands like Luminous that are available in the market.
- Solar Charge Controller – SCC1206NM
This solar charge controller by Luminous boasts of 98% efficiency, and comes backed with inbuilt low voltage disconnect (LVD) technology. In addition, this solar charge controller also features an automatic battery selection function and has a USB port for DC load connection. Providing you with protection against overcharge and reverse current, this solar charge controller is also reasonably priced.
Specifications:
- Warranty- 12 months
- Maximum supported power panel- 125Wp@12V
- Charge controller rating- 6A@12V
- Solar Charge Controller – SCC1220NM
The solar charge controller shows 98% efficiency with its inbuilt low voltage disconnect technology. This charge controller prevents the battery from overcharging and from charge flowing in the opposite direction back towards the solar panel. It also halts the solar system from going into deep discharge modes during low light situations and makes for an economical option.
Specifications:
- Warranty- 12 months
- Maximum panel capacity supported- 400Wp at 12V and 800Wp at 24V
- Net weight- 0.35 kg
It’s safe to say that solar energy is the next step towards moving to a more green and sustainable world. And, solar charge controllers are a device that allows us to begin our journey with renewable energy at minimal costs and investments. So, what are you waiting for? Explore your options today!
