MPPT Charge Controller: Definition, Working, & Difference from PWM

An MPPT charge controller is a DC-to-DC converter that constantly adjusts the voltage and current so the solar panels give the maximum possible power at that moment and charges the battery faster.

If you want to invest in a battery-powered off-grid solar system, you'll need to ensure it has a high-quality and compatible solar charge controller. The primary function of a controller is to regulate the battery and prevent potential damage caused by overcharging. There are two popular types of solar charge controllers: PWM and MPPT.

While PWM charge controllers serve as a more cost-effective option, MPPT charge controllers are constructed using advanced technology and offer higher efficiency. Jackery offers a wide range of portable power stations featuring an MPPT charge controller to ensure enhanced security during the charging process.

AI Takeaways 

• MPPT charge controllers make a big difference by ensuring solar power is captured efficiently, which means faster charging of power stations and better use of renewable energy.
• An MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) charge controller works by constantly monitoring the voltage and current from solar panels and using a DC-to-DC converter and algorithms to find and operate at the “maximum power point.”
• MPPT charge controllers are generally more efficient, especially in varying light conditions, as they can convert excess voltage into increased current for charging the battery. On the other hand, PWM controllers are simpler and more affordable, making them suitable for smaller, less demanding solar setups.
• What are the Jackery Portable Power Stations with MPPT charge controllers.

What Is An MPPT Charge Controller 

An MPPT charge controller (Maximum Power Point Tracking charge controller) is a smart device that optimizes and adjusts the energy transfer from the solar panels to the power station. Without an MPPT charge controller, you’d lose a lot of the power your panels could actually produce.

Solar power panels collect and convert the sun's energy into electrical energy, which you can store in batteries to charge appliances. However, solar panels produce higher output than your batteries can handle. This is where the role of the solar charge controller MPPT starts.

MPPT solar charge controller monitors the solar panel and determines the maximum power point voltage for the current conditions. But what is an MPPT charge controller? It is a DC-to-DC converter designed for solar power systems. Also known as Maximum Power Point Tracking, its role is to receive voltage from solar panels and convert it for battery charging at appropriate levels.

Here are a few reasons why an MPPT solar charge controller is of utmost importance:

Overload Protection: When solar panels transfer more power than what a battery bank can safely handle, it leads to battery malfunctioning. Solar charge controllers ensure only appropriate current flows to the battery.

Low Voltage Disconnects: The low-voltage disconnect feature of the charge controllers ensure you are not drawing power from the dead battery. Once you've depleted the charge, the charge controller will reconnect the battery to the power source for recharging.

Block Reverse Current: Solar charge controllers work like a valve to create a one-way path for current to travel.

Even though you can purchase an MPPT separately, it's better to choose a solar generator with an in-built solar charge controller. Jackery Portable Power Stations have high-quality MPPT charge controllers built into their system to safely support the power needs of appliances like ACs, refrigerators, CPAP machines, etc.

How MPPT Charge Controller Works

An MPPT charge controller works by using a high-frequency DC-to-DC converter and intelligent algorithms to continuously find the maximum power point (MPP) of the solar panel array, which is the ideal voltage and current combination for maximum power output. It then converts this power to the optimal voltage and current to charge the battery.

MPPT solar charge controllers are DC-to-DC converters that transform the voltage and current from the solar power panels to appropriate levels for battery banks. It monitors the solar panel output and battery bank input to adjust the duty cycle. In simple words, the MPPT controller finds the correct balance between voltage and amperage to efficiently generate maximum power from your solar panel.

MPPT Vs. PWM Charge Controller 

PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) controllers are less advanced and cost-effective technology. They function by slowly reducing the current while charging the battery. One important thing to note is that these PWM controllers are suitable only for small systems and may not perform well in low sunlight or in cold temperatures.

Let us take an example of a nominal 12V system to understand better. In this case, the battery voltage will be around 10-15 VDC, and the nominal solar modules will have a Vmp (STC) of about 17V.

Whenever a solar array is connected to the battery for charging, the solar batteries pull down the output voltage. That means instead of operating at the most efficient voltage of 17V, the array operates somewhere between 10 and 15V.

Below is the graphical illustration of the example:

PWM and MPPT are popular solar charge controllers used when charging batteries using solar energy.

While the PWM controllers are generally smaller and operate at battery voltage, MPPT controllers use advanced technology to operate efficiently at the maximum power voltage.

PWM controllers are usually used with solar arrays that match the battery voltage. This eventually limits which modules can be used with these controllers.

For instance, 60-cell modules have a maximum power voltage of about 30V. These solar arrays can be used with MPPT controllers. However, they are less suitable with PWM.

Why MPPT Over PWM Charge Controller

MPPT charge controllers are known to improve the efficiency and performance of solar generators. These highly efficient controllers can convert excess voltage into more amps, leading to 30% more power generation. Below we include a few more reasons why you should choose MPPT over PWM controllers.

Fewer Module Restrictions

MPPT controllers can be used with a wide variety of solar modules and array configurations, all thanks to their ability to operate arrays at voltages greater than the solar battery voltage. Furthermore, these solar charge controllers MPPT support systems with small wire sizes, making them more convenient.

Supports Oversized Arrays

Unlike PWM controllers, MPPT can efficiently support oversized arrays by limiting the array's current intake during the day.

Less Energy Dependent

On cloudy days, the maximum power point keeps changing throughout the day. If the solar system does not operate with the optimal balance, it will be less efficient. The MPPT controller helps your solar system adjust to environmental changes and maintain the best possible output.

High Return on Investment

Even though there is a high upfront cost for an MPPT controller compared to a PWM, you gain much more functionality. When your solar energy system is highly efficient, it helps you reduce energy costs and carbon footprint.

Jackery Portable Power Stations with MPPT Charge Controller

Jackery is a pioneer in manufacturing solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels. All the Jackery Portable Power Stations feature a built-in MPPT controller for efficient solar charging. The foldable and lightweight solar panels transform the sun's energy into electrical power, which is then stored in a battery.

The portable power stations from Jackery can help you run essential indoor or outdoor appliances for long hours. Whether you are preparing for blackouts or want to keep essential appliances powered during outdoor adventures, the Jackery Solar Generators have got your back. Thus, these solar generators are suitable for long camping trips, off-grid living, emergency home backup, etc.

Jackery Explorer 5000 Plus Portable Power Station 

The Jackery Explorer 5000 Plus Portable Power Station is a powerful and essential home backup solution that can keep core appliances running during blackouts or power outages. It can easily handle big loads like ACs or HVAC systems and even supports dual voltage (120V and 240V). It can be paired with the highly efficient Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panels to refuel the power station faster. 

Appliances Working Hours 

• Refrigerator (300W) = 12.2H
• TV (150W) = 21.4H
• Microwave (800W) = 5.0H
• Coffee Machine (800W) = 5.0H
• Portable Heater (1500W) = 2.8H

Who Should Buy This 

If you are a homeowner looking to reduce your electricity bills or keep core appliances powered during outages, then the Jackery Explorer 5000 Plus Portable Power Station has got you covered.

Customer Review 

Exactly what we needed to power our home. Especially nice to have a 240-volt option to run the well pump. Also nice to be able to "accessorize" as finances allow.

— Richard Wamsley.

Jackery HomePower 3000 Portable Power Station 

The Jackery HomePower 3000 Portable Power Station is an advanced essential home backup solution that can power everyday appliances, such as fridges, WiFi, fans, and lights. It's the world's lightest and smallest 3kWh LFP power station, so you can move it wherever needed. It features ZeroDrain technology, which ensures that 95% of its power remains intact even after a full year of storage. 

Appliances Working Hours 

• Refrigerator (300W) = 8.1H
• TV (150W) = 15.2H
• Microwave (800W) = 3.2H
• Coffee Machine (800W) = 3.2H
• Portable Heater (1500W) = 1.7H

Who Should Buy This 

If you are looking for an essential home backup solution that can keep appliances powered during outages and can also be taken on the road, the Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000 is a reliable solution.

Customer Review 

This Jackery HomePower 3000 is a game-changer and a breath of fresh air for me. I drive a Chevy Silverado, so there’s plenty of room for this thing in the back. The Jackery HomePower 3000 powers EVERYTHING I need (and then some) as a nomadic traveler.

— Trin B.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station 

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station is a home battery backup that can be expanded as the needs grow. It has a LiFePO4 battery that can be expanded up to 24kWh to power appliances for long hours or even days. It features a pull rod and double wheels that ensure easy movement wherever you go.

Appliances Working Hours 

• Refrigerator (300W) = 5.3H
• TV (150W) = 10.0H
• Microwave (800W) = 2.0H
• Coffee Machine (800W) = 2.0H
• Portable Heater (1500W) = 1.1H

Who Should Buy This 

If you are looking for a battery backup solution that can act as a reliable choice for outdoor adventures and short power outages, you can consider going ahead with the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station.

Customer Review 

I bought 2 of these units and connected them with the Jackery cord that allows for 240v. Connected them to a transfer switch. I can power my well and fridge with this system in case we have a power outage.

— Paddy hiker.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station 

The Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station is ideal for lighter needs, such as short-term outages or brief outdoor trips. It features a foldable handle and compact design for easy transportation wherever you go. Similar to the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station, this model can also be expanded up to 5kWh with the addition of compatible battery packs.

Appliances Working Hours 

• Refrigerator (300W) = 3.3H
• TV (150W) = 6.2H
• Microwave (800W) = 1.3H
• Coffee Machine (800W) = 1.3H
• Computer (200W) = 4.8H

Who Should Buy This 

If you want a home battery backup that can also act as an outdoor battery backup to run core appliances, you can consider going ahead with the Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station.

Customer Review 

Love this pack. Not too heavy. Charges fast. Expandability is a major plus. Customer support is fantastic. Great for our little cabin that loses power frequently.

— Paul.

MPPT Charge Controller FAQs

How to choose the best MPPT charge controller?

Not all MPPT charge controllers are compatible with your solar array. That's why it's important to analyze a few factors and evaluate its compatibility and performance.

Rated Charge Current: The maximum current the charge controller can charge the battery is called rated charge current.

Battery Voltage: The number refers to the compatible nominal battery voltage and is usually available on the system. Most popular MPPT systems are compatible with 12V and 24V batteries; therefore, they are known as 12/24V.

Maximum PV Voltage: When finding the best MPPT charge controller, always ensure it has a maximum PV voltage greater than the maximum open circuit voltage of the solar array.

Maximum PV Input Power: Charge controls usually have different maximum PV input power ratings for various voltages. It's vital to check the maximum solar array wattage you can connect to your controller for maximum efficiency.

Is the MPPT charge controller worth it?

Yes, an MPPT charge controller quickly gets you a positive ROI by helping you generate solar energy efficiently. The best part about these solar charge controllers is that they provide more power, especially in cold temperatures.  

How big of an MPPT charge controller do I need?

The formula to calculate the size of an MPPT charge controller is multiplying the number of panels and the wattage of each solar power panel. This will give watts (or kilowatts) of your solar array. You can divide the number with your battery bank voltage to get amps. Lastly, add 25% of the number if you live in a colder climate.

If you are confused about which MPPT charge controller suits your solar system, consider purchasing Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations. These battery backups have an in-built MPPT controller and can efficiently operate to power most of your appliances. You can connect these battery backups for homes or outdoor adventures with Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels for efficient charging.

Does Jackery 500 Have MPPT?

Yes, the Jackery Explorer 500 has a built-in MPPT charge controller. MPPT extracts the maximum power from the solar panels to recharge the power station faster.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a solar generator system with an MPPT controller for your home can not only help you reduce the cost of your high electricity bills but also positively impacts the environment. However, choosing the compatible MPPT charge controller for your solar array can be arduous for many users.

Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations feature MPPT solar charge controllers. The advanced MPPT technology ensures a high solar charging efficiency, so you no longer have to worry about power outages or blackouts. These power stations are also portable, making them a great companion for outdoor adventures.