If I have 17 123 Watt Solar Panels?

Question

How many blocking diodes would I need to install to prevent backflow and battery drainage? And what Amps?

Answer 1

I am guessing that you have the Sharp 123 watt panels http://store.oynot.com/nd123wasopa.html.

All you need to do is put a good brand of a charge controller (really any brand) between the solar array and the battery bank. Which you better do anyway or you will warp the lead plates in the batteries. The charge controller protects the batteries from over charging and from back flow to the array.

You have about 2 kw of panels so here is a good controller that should handle your modules. http://store.oynot.com/mpptmx60.html But you will have to wire for a 48 volt system. A 24 volt system would require two charge controllers to handle that much power. Charge controllers max out at a 60 amp out put at 24 volts your panels would put out 87 amps. At 48 volts you would be putting out about 42 amps which would work out great because for your breakers and wiring.

Answer 2

you didn't provide enough data. choosing the diodes is done acording to the electric diagram and the panels caracteristic.

if not stated, by dividing power by nominal output voltage will get you the panel's output current. That's how many amps you'll need for the diode but.. depends on the schematic as i've said

Answer 3

1

Answer 4

A system of that magnitude deserves a well-designed power controller. Obviously no one can design such a controller without knowing your specifications and objectives.