Wiring solar panels in series for a 24V system

Since off-grid solar panels are usually setup for 12 volt charging system, if you have a 24 volt system, you will need to wire two panels in series in order to generate this voltage. 

To wire panels in series: 

• Connect the positive terminal of one solar panel to the negative terminal of the other panel. 
  
• Grab the remaining positive and negative terminals from both panels, and connect to their corresponding terminals in the input of the solar regulator
  
• Your solar regulator should detect the solar panels and in sunlight will begin to charge your battery

You do of course have to make sure that your regulator is rated for 24 volts. Basic regulators such as the 5A LandStar are generally only available in 12 volt versions. We do however sell plenty of solar charge controllers that can charge a 24 volt system. We have models that can charge both 12 or 24V systems, such as the SeaStar regulator, and larger regulators such as the MorningStar Tristar range can be configured to run on either 12, 24 or 48 volt systems, while the Victron units have automatic battery voltage recognition (12/24V).

Need to know more? Take a look at:

• Wiring several panels in parallel for 12V systems
• Selecting the correct cables, fuses and connectors
  
• Wiring up an inverter
• Types of solar panel