What You Need to Know About Multi-facing Solar Panel Installations

Its not uncommon to have your solar panel installed on different facings of your roof.  If this is you, then you should be well aware of the MPPT Inverters.  (Maximum Power Point Tracker)

A standard inverter is designed to have a single string of solar panels which are installed facing the same direction, and the same pitch.

A MPPT or Duel Tracking Inverter is designed to take two strings of solar panels, each string can face a different direction, be on a different pitch or both.

So what would happen if you installed two strings of panels, each string facing a different direction wired into a standard inverter?

The system would still technically work however each panel would only output roughly the same amount of Watts as what the weakest panels are outputting.

If you install an MPPT Inverter, then the inverter will automatically select which string has the maximum power point.  This means that you will not suffer any losses like you would if you installed a standard inverter.  It’s almost like having two inverters built into one.

Each installation is different and should be treated differently by your CEC Accredited installer.  Make sure that you ask for a copy of the diagram as well as the quote.  Check out the diagram below.  It matches the installation for the photo at the top of the page.

The Author

Darryn Van Hout

I developed an interest in the Australian energy and construction sectors more than a decade ago and have since closely followed the trends, technologies and developments shaping both industries. My involvement in the Australian solar market began in 2008, and over the years I have built strong connections with professionals, businesses and organisations across the construction, solar and renewable energy sectors in Australia and internationally. These connections include solar panel and inverter manufacturers, electrical and construction industry professionals, software developers creating tools to quote, monitor and manage solar power systems, and media organisations that closely follow developments across energy, construction and renewable technologies. Today, I continue to contribute as an industry advocate, author and commentator, sharing practical insights and information to help Australian consumers and businesses better understand solar power, energy technologies, construction-related developments and the changing Australian energy landscape.