We usually here these two terms of MPPT and PWM while purchasing a solar Inverter or while installing a PV solar system.
These two technologies are related to Solar Inverters. So what is the difference between these two technologies, let’s discuss in detail.
PWM:
PWM stands for Pulse Width Modulation.
PWM inverter efficiency is around 75%. PWM has been in the market for quite some time now. They are quite cheaper when it comes to their pricing. PWM charge controllers come with a limited range of Voltage and Current ratings.
MPPT:
MPPT stands for Maximum Power Point Tracking.
MPPT inverter efficiency is around 95%. MPPT technology is quite new to the market. They are quite costly as compared to other charge controllers. Their range for Voltage and Current rating is quite broad.
So now which one to buy. Decision of selecting one from the above two can be made depending on the following requirements.
Efficiency: MPPT are around 25-30% more efficient than PWM. When extracting maximum power is the need then MPPT can be considered.
Cost: PWM are quite less costly as compared to MPPT. Hence if there are cost constraints, then PWM can be considered.
Size: PWM can be used with lower capacity systems, but it is advisable to use MPPT for higher capacity systems.
Ratings and complexity: If system is complex then it’s better to go with MPPT than PWM since MPPT is suitable for wider range ratings as compared to PWM.
Hope these details help you while choosing the right technology.