Solar regulators, which are also known as solar charge controllers, regulate the solar panel's charging current to provide the most effective charge to the batteries without overcharging them. They also prevent the batteries from backfeeding into the solar panel at night.

All of the solar regulators listed below incorporate Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) regulation. This is the most effective means to achieve constant voltage battery charging by switching the solar system controller’s power devices. When in PWM regulation, the current from the solar array tapers according to the battery’s condition and recharging needs. Click here for more info on PWM.

Additional daily production can be gained through the use of Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPTs). These regulator / controllers allow the solar panels to run at a voltage where they produce the most power (generally higher than battery voltage) and perform a voltage conversion to a level suitable for battery charging, with a higher charging current. They periodically sweep / track the optimum voltage level throughout the day to maintain the highest output.

Steca solar regulators are designed in Germany and used throughout the world. We have found these units to be very user friendly, reliable and good value.

Morningstar Corp are a US based company manufacturing a range of quality solar regulators. Of particular interest are their epoxy sealed models with marine rated terminals. The Morningstar range are rated for 25% overloads. 

Plasmatronics solar regulators are manufactured in Australia. These versatile, high quality units are very popular for larger systems as they are fully programmable, offer a large amount of system monitoring information and incorporate data logging. The PL range supports external shunts to allow monitoring of external charging sources and high current loads, such as inverters.

Xantrex manufactures the XW SCC, a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charge controller. The XW MPPT algorithm constantly adjusts the operating points of the array to ensure it stays on the maximum power point. It does not stop energy harvest to sweep the array like some competing products. Utilising a large convection cooled (no fan) heat-sink, they deliver full current up to 45 deg C. Expect daily power production gains of up to 30%.

Outback Power Systems Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charge controllers are manufactured in the USA. Designed for larger systems, their sophisticated electronics allow the solar array to run at it's optimum voltage providing daily power production gains of up to 30%.

Blue Sky Energy (Solar Boost) are a US based manufacturer offering a range of high quality Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charge controllers including cost effective units for smaller 12V applications, through to larger units with networking capability. Expect increases in charge current of up to 30%. 

If you have a preference for other brands, please contact us for pricing.