Connecting two solar panels together is a simple and effective way to increase solar power capacity. There are three ways to connect solar panels together, but which depends on the purpose.
Solar PV panels can be connected in series to increase the voltage (V) output or in parallel to increase the output current (A) value. Solar panels can also be connected together in series and parallel combinations to increase output voltage and current, producing higher power arrays.
Whether you are connecting two or more solar panels or 6 mm solar cable, as long as you understand, there will be more solar panels together. The basic principle of how to increase the power (electricity), and how each of these methods works, you can easily determine how many pieces of panels are connected together. After all, connecting solar panels together correctly can greatly improve the efficiency of your solar system.
First of all, if the solar panels of the same voltage and current power are connected in series and parallel, there is no problem. But what happens if you do this with different voltages or currents?
Solar panels of different voltages are connected in series.
For example: the first solar panel is 5V/3A, the second is 7V/3A, and the third is 9V/3A. When they are connected in series, the array generates a voltage of 21V at 3A, or 63W of power. Again, the output current number will remain the same as before at 3A, but the voltage output jumps to 21V (5 + 7 + 9).
Solar panels of different currents and voltages are connected in series
For example: the first solar panel is 3V/1A, the second is 7V/3A, and the third is 9V/5A. When they are connected in series, the voltages of the individual solar panels will be added together as before, but this time the current count will be limited to the value of the lowest panel in series, in this case 1A. The array will then produce 19V at 1A (3+7+9), or only 19W out of a possible 69W, reducing the efficiency of the array. Connecting solar panels with different current ratings in series can only be used temporarily, because the one with the lowest current rating determines the current output of the entire array.
Solar panels of different currents and voltages are connected in parallel.
For example: the first solar panel is 3V/1A, the second is 7V/3A, and the third is 9V/5A. Here, the current in parallel adds up as before, but the voltage is adjusted to the lowest possible value, in this case 3V. Solar panels must have the same output voltage to function in parallel. If a panel has a high voltage, it will provide a load current that will bring its output voltage down to the voltage of the lower voltage panel.
The above only shows some changes in power, voltage and current. In fact, there will be some problems with the safety of electricity. Please test in a safe environment.