I'm working with a solar array setup that includes a 250Ah 12.8V battery, two 300W mono solar panels, and a 60Ah POWMr MPPT charge controller, along with a 2000W Renogy inverter. Despite everything being correctly wired (no short circuits) and aimed directly at the sun, I'm only getting about 342 watts instead of the expected 600 watts. My previous setup with 100W panels was only producing around 70-75 watts each. I'm uncertain if I've done something wrong or if there's an issue I need to diagnose. Additionally, I have some questions about wiring: what gauge should I use from the inverter to the battery? I'm currently using 0 and 2 AWG for that and 10-12 AWG for the solar controller. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!
1 Answer
It's pretty common to get less than the rated output, especially considering environmental factors. The 300W rating is under ideal conditions, like being perfectly positioned and in peak summer sun. If you're further north or in winter, atmospheric conditions can reduce output significantly. Just don't be too hard on yourself; what you're experiencing isn't unusual when the conditions aren't perfect.