Mixing Solar Panels (size, mfr, type etc.)

[Mistroma]

Can't seem to find much detailed information on mixing different panels so thought I'd ask if anyone had relevant technical data.

Short on mounting space (well almost every one is). I have a BP365J 65W panel and thought I could squeeze in a 30-50W panel. However, all the panels I've seen have different characteristics (including a BP350J).

Are there any problems mixing different panels and connecting directly to a single regulator? I have an HRDi controller for wind/solar charging and intended to parallel both panels into this unit.

I imagine that it would be best to try to match Vmpp values as closely as possible. But can imagine that panel performance curves could vary significantly due to combination of design and position.

1) Is it OK to just match Vmpp values as closely as I can & what are the tolerances?
2) Am I likely to have problems with back current between panels?

Other people must have tried to mix & match different panels but might have resorted to use of multiple controllers or some other solution.

Apologies for yet another Solar Panel thread. Hopefully it will remain focussed on issues of combining output from various panels.

 

[wazza]

We mixed and matched different makes and sizes of solar panels before one finally died (due to heavy object in contact with it at a great velocity) and had no problems as long as the regulator can cope and ours did I'm sure they'd still be working now.!

 

[noelex]

With non MPPT regulators matching the characteristics of different panels is not very critical, but the specifications for the BP365J do not look unusual. If you can match the Vmpp as close as possible preferably to 0.2 V you have the possibility of switching to a MPPT regulator later if you wish.

 

[V1701]

I have two different panels, each of which has its own inexpensive PWM regulator...