Charge controllers
Discover our range of solar regulators to optimise your photovoltaic system. These devices monitor and regulate battery charging, ensuring sustainable use of solar energy. We offer two types: the PWM adjusts the panel voltage to charge the battery, while the MPPT constantly optimises the voltage for maximum efficiency, even in changing conditions.
Our regulators offer advanced features, guaranteeing a reliable power supply. Rely on our expertise in solar energy and equip yourself with the best regulators for your needs.
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Solar charge controllers: complete guide to choosing between PWM and MPPT
A charge controller is the component linking your solar panels to your batteries in an autonomous system. Its role: convert and regulate the current from the panels to charge batteries optimally without damaging them. Without a controller, a battery connected directly to panels would be overcharged whenever production exceeds consumption.
PWM vs MPPT: the honest comparison
PWM controller (Pulse Width Modulation)
- Principle: connects panels directly to the battery via a fast-switching electronic switch. Excess voltage energy is lost.
- Main constraint: panel Vmp must be close to battery charge voltage (e.g. 18V panels for 12V battery). If PV voltage is much higher, efficiency drops sharply.
- Advantages: simple, reliable, affordable. Ideal for installations ≤200W, emergency kits and tight-budget leisure projects.
- Typical efficiency: 70 to 80%.
MPPT controller (Maximum Power Point Tracking)
- Energy gain: 10 to 30% more energy recovered vs PWM, especially in non-ideal conditions (morning, evening, partial cloud cover, cold temperatures).
- Overpanelling: MPPT accepts PV input voltages well above battery voltage. You can connect panels in series to increase voltage and reduce cable losses.
- Wide input voltage range: a 48V MPPT can accept PV voltages from 100 to 450V depending on the model.
- Typical efficiency: 93 to 98%.
Essential parameters to check before buying
Battery voltage
The controller must be compatible with your battery bank voltage: 12V, 24V or 48V. Most modern MPPT controllers auto-detect battery voltage at first connection. Note: a 12/24V controller cannot work on a 48V bank.
Maximum charge current (A)
Simple calculation: max current = PV power (W) ÷ battery voltage (V). Example: 800W on a 24V battery = 800/24 = 33A → choose a 40A MPPT. Always add a 20% safety margin.
Maximum PV input voltage (Voc)
The most critical safety point. The open-circuit voltage of your series panels must NEVER exceed the controller's max input voltage — even briefly — risk of permanent destruction. Calculate Voc at minimum temperature (Voc increases as temperature drops). Our MPPT sizing guide provides detailed calculation formulas.
Brands available at Wattuneed
Victron Energy
The world benchmark for quality MPPT controllers. The SmartSolar MPPT range (75/10 to 250/100) covers all installation sizes. Key strengths: native Bluetooth (VictronConnect app), full Victron ecosystem compatibility (Cerbo GX, Battery Monitor, Multi...), 5-year warranty.
SRNE
Excellent value for standard off-grid installations. Robust, with integrated LCD and LiFePO4/AGM/GEL/OPzS compatibility. Good option for remote sites on a controlled budget.