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Originally Posted by DenverTransplant
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If I'd set up a series installation, 4 panels could generate 72 volts, which means about 5.6 amp in a single circuit. This allows smaller wire. However, in a series set up, shade on one of the panels can kill the whole string so I chose to stay away from series. In some larger installations, people will have 2 or 3 parallel circuits with multiple panels in series in each circuit.
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From a safety standpoint, I’d base voltage at maximum the panel can generate and not what it typically operates at. Manufacturers supply this data. With open circuit, voltage can easily go into mid 20s or higher depending on panel model, so 4 in series can get high enough to shock/kill.
About 60 Volts is maximum considered somewhat safe in case of shock, so many installations with 4 (typical) panels go with 2 X 2 (series and parallel) or all parallel. It’s important to look at maximum panel voltage because some are designed for even higher operating conditions (like those optimized for 48VDC systems).
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