Victron Solar

Victron Solar in Annapolis

Marine Electric Systems sells and installs Victron Energy equipment in Annapolis, Maryland. Browse Victron SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers and BlueSolar PWM controllers — the right way to integrate solar into a marine DC system tied to a Victron Cerbo GX.

Solar belongs on every cruising boat. Call (410) 263-0807 for array sizing and bimini integration. We serve Annapolis, Baltimore, the Eastern Shore, Northern Virginia, and the greater Washington DC area.

Victron Solar FAQ

Should I choose an MPPT or a PWM charge controller?

An MPPT (maximum power point tracking) controller converts extra panel voltage into extra charging current, so it harvests more energy and lets you wire panels in series at higher voltage. A PWM controller costs less but only works well when the panel voltage is closely matched to the battery. For most cruising boats with more than a small panel, MPPT is the better fit. See solar array installation for how we plan arrays.

How do I size an MPPT controller?

Check two numbers. The controller's maximum PV input voltage has to be higher than your array's open-circuit voltage, with margin for cold weather, when panel voltage rises. The output current rating should cover the array's wattage divided by your battery voltage.

Should my panels be wired in series or parallel?

Series wiring raises voltage and lowers current, so you can run smaller wire, but shade on one panel drags down the whole string. Parallel wiring handles partial shade from booms, rigging, and radar arches better, though it carries more current. Many boats use parallel wiring or a separate controller per panel for that reason.