Inverter/charger with Generator

Used to power loads like a fridge, small pumps, and small motors. This system can be used with a generator. You will see that a 24V system is not cost-effective for higher power systems.

 

Description

This system uses 4x 325W solar panels in a 2S2P configuration. A lithium battery at 24V and 200Ah for a total storage capacity of 5,120Wh. A 2000W inverter/charger with a 50A charging current for the generator.

We need a 60A Charge controller:

365W ×4 solar panels =1,460W

1,460W/28.8V =51A charging current

The solar panel specs are:

  • Power: 365W
  • Open Circuit Voltage (VOC): 48 V
  • Short Circuit Current (ISC): 9.83 A
  • Maximum Power Voltage (VMP): 39.10 V
  • Maximum Power Current (IMP): 9.33 A

 

The maximum input voltage is:

48Voc ×2 panels in series ×1.25= 120V

Let’s say the distance to the charge controller is 70 feet or 20 meters.

We need 8 AWG PV cables to keep the voltage below 3%.

The maximum current the system will draw is:

2000W/24V =83A

The total capacity of the battery is:

25.6V×200Ah=5,120Wh

To recharge the battery in one day, we need a total of:

5,120Wh/(365W ×4 panels)= 3.5 sunhours

This makes the system correctly sized. You need to be able to recharge the battery in one day, which equals 3 or 4 sunhours (1000W/m²).