Traditional PWM vs Morningstar’s TrakStar™ MPPT Technology

Morningstar’s MPPT charge controllers use the TrakStar advanced control MPPT algorithm to harvest maximum power from a Solar Array’s peak power point. It is generally accepted that even the most basic MPPT controller will provide an additional 10‐15% of charging capability, when compared to a standard PWM regulator. Besides this extra charge capability, there are several other important differences and advantages between PWM & MPPT technologies—these basic differences & advantages are outlined in this whitepaper.

Traditional PWM vs Morningstar’s TrakStar™ MPPT Technology

Environmental Considerations:

Environmental conditions will cause the Vmp of a solar array to fluctuate with partial array shading
and module temperature having the most impact. MPPT technology allows the system to track the
changing Vmp and maximize energy harvest in any environmental conditions.

Another noticeable increase in charging efficiency, or taking advantage of the voltage differential
“boost” will be seen in colder temperatures. As solar modules drop in temperature, their Vmp
increases (see Appendix). Using a standard PWM regulator, a decrease in temperature would
correspond in almost no change in power. Since the array current stays the same the charging current
picks nothing up from the increased voltage. However, an MPPT controller tracks the increasing Vmp
and converts the excess voltage being produced into additional charging current. In general, any rise in
Vmp will increase an MPPT controller’s harvest relative to a PWM controller. (Conversely, any drop in
Vmp will decrease an MPPT controller’s harvest relative to a PWM controller).

As seasons change, the angle of the sun striking a solar module will change as well (assuming
stationary modules). The greater the angle of incidence, the less power a module will ultimately
produce. During times of the year where the angle of incidence is greatest (and relative power output is
decreased), MPPT technology is very useful for harvesting the maximum amount of energy.

MPPT controllers can play a big role in helping improve system performance, especially autonomy
considerations, for keeping the batteries charged during the winter months with less daylight hours
and sometimes poor incident angle. Again, the additional “boost” is the greatest when it may be
needed the most.

Array Sizing for PWM Regulators:

The first consideration in sizing the array for a PWM controller is open circuit voltage (Voc). Every
controller has a maximum input voltage rating. The array must have a temperature compensated (see
Appendix) Voc less than the controller’s maximum input voltage rating. During PWM switching
cycles, the controller input is exposed to the array open circuit voltage. Using an array with a
temperature compensated Voc greater than the controller input rating will damage the controller.
Next, consider the maximum power voltage (Vmp). The Vmp of the array needs to be higher than
the battery’s maximum charging voltage.

Recommended values for Vmp are listed below:

• 12V systems: Vmp > 15V
• 24V systems: Vmp > 30V
• 36V systems: Vmp > 45V
• 48V systems: Vmp > 60V

A PV module’s output current will decrease significantly at voltages higher than Vmp and will be 0
Amps at Voc. Therefore, the temperature compensated Vmp of the array should be higher than full
battery voltage to ensure effective charging over the entire battery voltage range.

NOTE: The Vmp of the array should be higher than, but as close to, the maximum battery voltage as possible. Vmp
significantly higher than max battery voltage reduces efficiency and puts more stress on the switching components of the
regulator. Typically, for proper performance, 36 Cell or 72 Cell off‐grid modules (Vmp ≈ 17 to 18 V for every 12V nominal
battery voltage) should be used with PWM controllers.

Finally, the current output of the array is considered. Unlike MPPT controllers, standard PWM
controllers are not able to “boost” the amount of charging current by converting excess input voltage
into amperage. This means that the input current from the solar array will be equal to the output
current delivered to the battery. The solar array must be sized so that the short circuit current (Isc) does
not exceed the nameplate current rating of the controller being used. An array with Isc greater than the
current rating of the regulator may consistently trip overcurrent protections or damage the unit.

IMPORTANT: Local code may require additional reductions in maximum input Isc levels.

NOTE: Morningstar offers a String Sizer tool to assist in the proper sizing/configuration of your solar array with
Morningstar controllers. Users may choose between a selection of pre‐populated module data or input their own module
specifications. This tool also allows adjustment of design parameters such as range of expected battery voltages and min/max
temperatures at the site. A link to the String Calculator can be found on the Morningstar homepage:
mstarmarketing.wpengine.com.

Array Sizing for MPPT Regulators:

As with PWM regulators, the most basic concern when sizing an MPPT solar array is open circuit
voltage (Voc). The temperature compensated (see Appendix) Voc of the array must be less than the
maximum input voltage rating of the MPPT controller. Higher Voc has the potential to damage the
unit.

For a given MPPT current rating and nominal system voltage, there is an effective maximum
solar array wattage that can be used. Morningstar MPPT controllers have current ratings which specify
the maximum battery charge current the unit can support. NOTE: The battery charge current will be
lower than the solar input current due to the MPPT’s ability to “boost” charging amperage. The MPPT
output current rating multiplied by the battery voltage is the maximum amount of power which can be
used for charging the batteries. Any amount of power in excess of this could be lost when the controller
limits the charging current to the maximum output current level:

1. Example #1:
   • A 15A MPPT controller is being used in a 12V nominal system (actual battery voltage
     between 10V and 15V).
   • Multiplying current rating and battery voltage gives about 200W (15A * 13.3V = 200W).
   • The recommended maximum array wattage for this system is therefore 200W.
2. Example #2:
   • A 15A MPPT controller is now being used in a 24V nominal system (actual battery voltage
     between 20V and 30V).
   • The recommended maximum array wattage will therefore be 400W (15A * 26.6V = 400W).

It is important to note that exceeding the maximum array wattage for a given
controller/nominal voltage combination will not damage the controller.

It is important to note that exceeding the maximum array wattage for a given controller/nominal
voltage combination will not damage the controller. Any wattage in excess of the max array
wattage will simply be lost. (i.e. Using a 300W array in a system where the max array W is only 200W
will not damage the controller, but the 300W array will have an operating power of approximately
200W maximum).

IMPORTANT: MPPT controllers can be used with off‐grid or grid-tied modules. PWM controllers
should only be used with off‐grid modules.

Maximizing Efficiency:

Morningstar TrakStar™ MPPT controllers will operate at slightly different efficiencies depending
upon the nominal battery voltage being used, the Vmp of the array, and the total wattage of the
array. These efficiency curves are printed in the appropriate manual for every Morningstar MPPT
controller. This data can be used to optimally size your solar array for best performance and
maximum energy harvest.

NOTE: Morningstar offers a String Sizer tool to assist in the proper sizing/configuration of your solar array with
Morningstar controllers. Users may choose between a selection of pre‐populated module data or input their own module
specifications. This tool also allows for the adjustment of design parameters such as range of expected battery voltages
and min/max temperatures expected at the installation site. A link to the String Calculator can be found on the
Morningstar homepage: mstarmarketing.wpengine.com.

Maximizing MPPT Boost with a Morningstar MPPT Controller:

Morningstar’s TrakStar MPPT technology sets itself apart from other less effective MPPT solar
controllers on the market. Because of the following advantages Morningstar maintains consistently
better output power which translates into more MPPT Boost:

• Consistently higher efficiencies under all operating conditions
• Lower self-consumption power losses
• No fans (lower efficiency power losses get turned into heat so fans are needed to use up
  additional charging power)
• Staying on Track. (Operates at MPPT levels more of the time)

This additional energy translates into a more consistently larger MPPT Boost. Given an MPPT
boost of 10%, just 1% higher efficiency would mean 10% more MPPT boost.

PWM Over MPPT:

The preceding discussion of PWM vs. MPPT may cause some to wonder why a PWM controller would
ever be chosen in favor of an MPPT controller. There are indeed instances where a PWM controller can
be a better choice than MPPT and there are factors which will reduce or negate the advantages the
MPPT may provide. The most obvious consideration is cost. MPPT controllers tend to cost more than
their PWM counterparts. When deciding on a controller, the extra cost of MPPT should be analyzed
with respect to the following factors:

1. 1. Low power (specifically low current) charging applications may have equal or better energy harvest
   with a PWM controller. PWM controllers will operate at a relatively constant harvesting efficiency
   regardless of the size of the system (all things being equal, efficiency will be the same whether using
   a 30W array or a 300W array). MPPT regulators commonly have noticeably reduced harvesting
   efficiencies (relative to their peak efficiency) when used in low power applications. Efficiency
   curves for every Morningstar MPPT controller are printed in their corresponding manuals and
   should be reviewed when making a regulator decision. (Manuals are available for download on the
   Morningstar website).
2. 2. As explained in the Environmental Considerations section, the greatest benefit of an MPPT regulator
   will be observed in colder climates (Vmp is higher). Conversely, in hotter climates Vmp is reduced. A decrease in Vmp will reduce MPPT harvest relative to PWM. Average ambient temperature at the
   installation site may be high enough to negate any charging advantages the MPPT has over the PWM. It would not be economical to use MPPT in such a situation. Average temperature at the site
   should be a factor considered when making a regulator choice (See Appendix).
3. 3. Systems in which array power output is significantly larger than the power draw of the system loads
   would indicate that the batteries will spend most of their time at full or near full charge. Such a
   system may not benefit from the increased harvesting capability of an MPPT regulator. When the
   system batteries are full, excess solar energy goes unused. The harvesting advantage of MPPT may
   be unnecessary in this situation especially if autonomy is not a factor.

Technology Comparison
PWM Charge Control	MPPT Charge Control
PV array & battery voltages must match	PV array voltage can be much higher than battery voltage
Operates at battery voltage so it performs well in warm temperatures and when the battery is almost full	Operates above battery voltage so it is can provide “boost” in cold temperatures and when the battery is low.
Typically recommended for use in smaller systems where “boost” benefits are minimal.	170W or higher to take advantage of “boost” benefits more
Must use off-grid PV modules typically with Vmp ≈ 17 to 18 Volts for every 12V nominal battery voltage	Enables the use of lower cost/grid-tie PV Modules helping bring down the overall PV system cost
PV array sized in Amps (based on current produced when PV array is operating at battery voltage)	PV array sized in Watts (based on the Controller Max. Charging Current x Battery Voltage)
Simpler series switching charge control circuit	Additional Energy Harvest by operating at PV peak power point rather than battery voltage

Morningstar’s MPPT Controllers:

Morningstar presently offers five MPPT controllers: SunSaver MPPT™ for small PV systems and four
TriStar MPPT™ controllers for larger PV systems, as summarized below:

Morningstar MPPT Controllers Specifications Summary
MorningstarController	SunSaver MPPT	TriStar MPPT	(30 Amp, 45 Amp, 60 Amp versions)	TriStar MPPT-600V(with & without DB)
Maximum Battery Current	15 Amps	30 Amps	45 Amps	60 Amps	60 Amps
Nominal Maximum Operating Power for 12 Vdc batteries	200 Watts	400 Watts	600 Watts	800 Watts	NA
Nominal Maximum Operating Power for 24 Vdc batteries	400 Watts	800 Watts	1200 Watts	1600 Watts	1600 Watts
Nominal Maximum	Operating Power	for 48 Vdc batteries	NA	1600 Watts	2400 Watts	3200 Watts	3200 Watts
Maximum PV Open Circuit Voltage	75 Volts	150 Volts	150 Volts	150 Volts	600 Volts
Communication Ports for MeterBus	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Communication Ports for RS-232	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Communication Ports for EIA-485	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Communication Ports for Ethernet	No	No	No	Yes	Yes

Wrap-Up:

The Solar Charge Controller is the Heart of a Stand-alone PV System. So what should you consider to
choose the right solar charge controller? Here is a Charge Controller Checklist that may help:

• PWM or MPPT
• Environmental Conditions
• Accurate Fixed or Adjustable Regulation Set Points
• Protections:
  • Lightning & Voltage Transient
  • Environmental (Tropicalization)
  • Electronic
  • Electrical Isolation
• Communication Protocols & Interfaces:
  • Open (or Proprietary)
    • Modbus TCP/IP, SNMP & SMTP
    • Ethernet, EIA-485 & EIA-232
    • Self-Diagnostic Capabilities
    • Information – LEDs, Meters, Alarms, Data Acquisition & Communication Ports
• Temperature Compensation
• Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD)
• Battery, PV & Load Status
• Low Self Consumption
• Overall Quality (Automated or Hand Production):
  • Operating Life (MTBF & FIT Rates)
  • ISO 900x
  • Certifications: CE, UL, Class 1 Division 2, FCC Class B Part 15, etc…
  • 5 Year Warranty
  • Proven Track Record
• Ease of Use:
  • Large Wire Terminals
  • Clear Product Labels
  • User Friendly Documentation
• Commercial:
  • Delivery Time
  • Inventory Levels
  • Variety
  • Post-Sales Support
  • Technical Support

Appendix – Temperature Compensation:

It is important to take into account temperature compensation and understand how it relates to
both the output voltage and output current of a solar module.

Solar modules have performance ratings under standard test conditions (STC); normally a cell
temperature of 25°C and 1000W/m2 irradiance. Actual operating conditions will, of course, vary from
STC. Manufacturers publish temperature coefficients which can be used to determine module output
current/voltage under expected conditions. The two most important are the Voc and Isc Temperature
Coefficients.

The Voc temp coefficient, specified in volts per °C (or °F), is a negative value. This indicates
that the open circuit voltage of the module has an inverse relationship with temperature (Voc decreases
with increasing temperature and increases with decreasing temperature). When determining if the Voc
of an array is appropriate for the controller’s maximum input voltage, it is essential to take into account
temperature effects. In warm weather, the Voc of a module may be low enough to use with a certain
controller. However, as seasons change and temperature drops, the Voc may rise past a voltage safe to
use with that controller.

Worst case temperature effects should always be used when sizing an array. For example: the
Voc of a module under STC (25°C) is 21V. The Voc temp coefficient is ‐0.05V/°C. If the record low
temperature for the area in which the module will be placed is ‐10°C, the worst case (highest) Voc will
be 22.75Voc:

10°C – 25°C = 35°C
35°C * 0.05V/°C = 1.75V
21V(@STC) + 1.75V = 22.75V(@-10°C)

The Isc temp coefficient, specified in amps per °C (or °F), is a positive value. This indicates
that the short circuit current will rise with increasing temperature and fall with decreasing
temperature. Normally, the Isc coefficient is small enough to be neglected.

Revised 3/13/2015