Hey all -
I'm trying to figure out how to make a situation work (if possible). I know there are some
very smart folks here that can probably come up with an answer fairly quickly, if it's possible.
I had a great deal and purchased a pallet (30) of some Trina solar modules for an off-grid installation at our second home. I only needed 20 for my needs at the house, so I'd like to make use of some of them for other projects, including my Van. I can easily install one on the roof.
Here's a link to the Spec sheet on the TrinaSolar.com site:
https://static.trinasolar.com/sites/..._Apr2018_C.pdf
I have the 305 Watt modules - part # TSM-DD05A.05(II)
A couple of the pertinent numbers from the specs are Voc=40 Volts and Isc=9.85 Amps
It has an MC4 connector.
I also have an Inergy Kodiak (
https://inergytek.com) self-contained lithium battery with a built-in PWM charge controller. Similar to a GoalZero. Here's a link to the manual/specs:
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/16...98442003063061
My hangup with using the Trina module with the Kodiak is that in the manual it states a couple times that (from page 10):
Quote:
(B) Charge Port 2: High current charge input for use with the Inergy Quick Wall charger, Solar Storm Solar Panels, and Predator Solar Panels. MAXIMUM INPUT: UP TO 600 WATTS, NOT TO EXCEED 26 VOLTS DC (OPEN CIRCUIT, ABBREVIATED AS VOC). Connector Type: Neutrik Speakon connector.
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So, max of 26 volts, while the Trina can output as much as 40 volts. No go, apparently.
I contacted Inergy and they pretty much said I'm out of luck to use these two together and I could brick my Kodiak.
It *seems* (in my civil engineering mind, that is) that I could install a DC-DC Voltage Regulator/Step Down Buck Transformer/Converter similar to one of these (for example) between the Trina module and the Kodiak:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...521484310&th=1
or
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0..._1p_14_lm?th=1
Another thought I had would be to install a Renogy or Victron MPPT charge controller, but my solar guy warned against it - that installing a second charge controller in series could "confuse" things between the controllers.
Any thoughts? Really looking for enlightenment here.
If so, I'd appreciate any recommendations from the smart electrical guys here on a converter/regulater that could work.
Thanks in advance
Phil