☀️ Solar panels connected in series produce more energy in ideal conditions.
☀️ Solar panels connected in parallel are better protected against obstructions.
☀️ Most solar panel systems feature both types of connections.
Solar panels are becoming more affordable every day, so now is a great time to switch to solar power – but before you can enjoy free, clean electricity, your installer will determine how to wire your solar panels in series, in parallel, or both.
In this blog post, I’ll explain how series and parallel solar panel connections differ, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and why your installer may suggest a combination of the two different types of connections.
If you want to get your own solar panel system installed, we can help you with a free no-obligation quote and solar PV system design tailored to your individual energy requirements, just ‘Contact‘ us to start your solar journey today!
What does it mean to install your solar panels in series or parallel?
Solar panels can be connected to each other in two different ways: series and parallel.
Each solar panel has a positive and negative terminal, similar to the batteries you use at home, and the way they’re connected determines whether your system is in series or parallel.
A series connection is when you wire the positive terminal of one panel to the negative terminal of another. This boosts the system’s total voltage – and thus its output – while keeping the amperage the same as one panel.
Parallel connections are the opposite – they involve wiring all the positive terminals together, and all the negative terminals together. This will keep the system’s voltage low, while raising its amperage.
A series connection is more vulnerable to disruptions – for example if something shades your solar array – which will reduce the energy production of every panel in the system.
On the other hand, panels in a parallel connection will work independently of each other, regardless of what happens to the rest of the system.
Imagine you’ve hung up a string of fairy lights. If one bulb suddenly goes out and they’re wired in parallel, the other lights will remain on – but if they’re in series, they’ll all go out.
It’s also fairly common to use a mix of series and parallel connections, to make sure your system reaches the optimal voltage and amperage without overloading your inverter.
It’s essential your installer chooses the right way to connect your panels, as the wiring method will have a huge impact on how much electricity they generate.
Why would you install your solar panels in series?
Solar Panels in Series Pros
- Produces more energy than in parallel
- Makes the most of any and all daylight
- Lower amperage means lighter and cheaper cables
Solar Panels in Series Cons
- Shade can severely affect the output
A series connection can boost the system’s output if your solar panels are not blocked by anything.
The high voltage will usually produce more solar energy at all times of day, which means you can use the low light in the early morning or at dusk, as well as when the sun is bright.
A series connection also helps your system to match a powerful inverter’s voltage needs – and if you have too many panels for the inverter, you can wire the extra panels in series separately, then connect them in parallel.
However, your output will drop significantly if a single panel is shaded by a stray breeze moving a tree.
Why would you install your solar panels in parallel?
Solar Panels in Parallel Pros
- If one panel’s obstructed, the others will continue working normally
- Occasional shade won’t slash your output
- You can use a less powerful solar inverter
Solar Panels in Parallel Cons
- Produces more energy than in series
- Higher amperage means heavier, more expensive cables
A parallel connection could work well if some of your solar panel system is often shaded.
Parallel wiring means the other panels will function normally if one of your panels is blocked.
A parallel connection also raises the amperage without increasing the voltage, which is good if your inverter can’t deal with a high voltage.
How will installing your solar panels in series or parallel affect your savings?
A series connection will produce more energy and save you more money, if your system is always clear of shade.
But if your panels are often in the shadow, the situation is different.
Then you’ll want to wire your system in parallel, which will make sure all your unshaded panels keep making the same amount of energy.
The choice between a series and parallel connection can mean hundreds of pounds in savings, depending on how bad your shade problem is.
Are solar panels installed in the UK usually in series or parallel?
Most solar panel systems use a combination of series and parallel connections.
Your solar panel installer will usually suggest splitting your panels into two groups, connecting each group in series, then wiring them in parallel.
This is because most roofs are free of overhead obstacles like trees, so you can benefit from the higher output that panels in series can generate.
The parallel connection between the two sets of panels is meant to safeguard you against any unexpected issues, like a loft extension on your neighbour’s house that casts shade on your panels for part of each day.
Using both series and parallel connections also lets you boost the voltage and amperage at the same time, enabling you to produce the most energy possible.
Should you install your solar panels in series or parallel?
The best option for your solar panels is to wire them in series and parallel.
This will help you match the highest voltage and amperage that your inverter can handle, and thus generate the most solar energy.
But if your panels will be shaded often, you may prefer to wire your solar panels in parallel only.
Or if you have few panels and they won’t be in shade at all, you may choose to wire them in series only.
Conclusion
You now have all the knowledge you need to discuss with your installer about their choice to wire your solar panels in series, in parallel, or both.
But in the end, you should mainly follow your installer’s advice.
If you want to find a solar panel installer who can help you make the best decision for your home, the best first step is to get multiple quotes.
NXTGEN Energy are MCS Certified Solar PV and Battery Storage Installers
Remember not all Solar Panel Installers are MCS Certified! NXTGEN Energy Ltd. are proud to be both MCS Certified Solar PV (Panel) Installers and also MCS Certified Battery Storage Installers. We are 1 of only 10 Solar Installers in Essex who are certified on both Solar PV and Battery Storage. This means we can install your complete Solar PV System to the high quality, performance, and safety as required by MCS Certification in the UK. Have you checked your installer on mcscertified.com?
If you are thinking of installing solar panels, solar battery storage or both, contact us here at NXTGEN Energy for a free no-obligation quote and solar PV system design on 01268 928 690, email: info@nxtgen.ltd or by clicking on the ‘Enquire Now’ button below. Think Solar? Think NXTGEN Energy!
NXTGEN Energy – Your Trusted Solar Energy Solutions Partner 💚
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar Panels in Series or Parallel
Wiring solar panels in series and parallel is usually the best option. If you have two groups of panels connected in series and wire them with parallel wiring, you can reach the highest voltage and amperage possible – which means making as much solar energy as you can. And if one group of panels is shaded at any point, the other group will keep working as usual.
Solar panels in series make energy faster than panels in parallel, when the sun is bright. But if something blocks your panels from the sun – like a tree branch – parallel wiring is better, as each panel will keep making energy no matter what happens to the others. Panels in series, however, can only make as much energy as the weakest panel in the system.
Connecting solar panels in series has a big downside: if even a tiny bit of shade falls on them, their energy output gets seriously messed up. Imagine one pesky tree or branch blocking the sun and ruining all your electricity generation! But don’t worry, there’s a way to fix this problem. By using a mix of series and parallel connections in your solar panel system, you can avoid this issue altogether.
Latest MCS Certified Posts
- Solar Panels: Pros, Cons, and Whether They’re Worth It
☀️ Solar panels can cut your energy bills by up to 70%, and surplus electricity can be sold back to the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Scheme. ☀️ They reduce your carbon footprint, require minimal maintenance, and can last over 30 years, making them a long-term eco-friendly investment. ☀️ Upfront costs are… Read more: Solar Panels: Pros, Cons, and Whether They’re Worth It - UK Schools and Hospitals to Receive £180 Million Solar Investment
☀️ Solar Investment: The UK government, through Great British Energy, is investing £180 million to install solar panels on 200 schools and 200 hospitals as part of its net-zero carbon strategy. ☀️ Benefits: This initiative aims to cut energy costs, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. ☀️… Read more: UK Schools and Hospitals to Receive £180 Million Solar Investment - Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency
☀️ Solar panels convert sunlight to electricity through photovoltaic cells, storing extra energy for later use. ☀️ There are three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. ☀️ Monocrystalline panels lead in efficiency (20%+), but new technologies are improving performance continuously. ☀️ Solar panels save money, boost property value & reduce environmental impact,… Read more: Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency - How SolaSkirt Can Protect Your Solar Panels
🐦⬛ Pigeon Issues: Pigeons under solar panels damage cables, leave guano, spread disease & create noise. 🔲 SolaSkirt Fix: Aluminium barrier that blocks pigeons, enhances panel look, and installs without damage. 🏆 Top Benefits: Durable, weatherproof, maintenance-free, and improves aesthetics & efficiency of panels. 💷 Cost-Saving: An affordable pigeon proofing solution that prevents expensive future… Read more: How SolaSkirt Can Protect Your Solar Panels - Are Brits Turning Their Backs on Solar Panels?
☀️ High upfront costs: Deter many Brits from installing solar panels despite falling prices & financing options. ☀️ Myths debunked: Solar panels work in cloudy weather, need minimal maintenance & can last 25–30 years. ☀️ Financial & Environmental benefits: Solar panels cut electricity bills by up to 70% & lower carbon footprints. ☀️ Government support… Read more: Are Brits Turning Their Backs on Solar Panels? - Choosing the Best Solar Panel System Installer
☀️ Choose MCS certified installers with Solar PV and Battery Storage Certificates for quality & incentives. ☀️ Pick local installers familiar with Essex, Kent, and London’s weather and building regulations. ☀️ Look for full-service solar installers from consultation to maintenance with MCS certification. ☀️ NXTGEN Energy offers tailored solar panel systems for homeowners in Essex,… Read more: Choosing the Best Solar Panel System Installer - Solar Panel System Maintenance in the UK
🛠️ Regular Maintenance: Ensures optimal performance, maximizes energy efficiency & prevents costly repairs. 🐦⬛ Common Issues in the UK: Dirt, debris, bird droppings & ice build-up require regular cleaning & inspections. 🧼 Best Practices: Clean panels with soft cloth & water, monitor performance & schedule maintenance visits. 🌸 Seasonal Tips: Spring cleaning, summer heat protection,… Read more: Solar Panel System Maintenance in the UK - Are solar panels worth it? NXTGEN Energy’s guide to getting started
☀️ Installing solar panels can significantly reduce electricity bills, with prices dropping in recent years. ☀️ Solar panels are a good investment for those with the space, daytime electricity usage & a south-facing roof. ☀️ Consider financing options carefully, as borrowing can be expensive; paying outright provides better returns. ☀️ Solar batteries store energy for… Read more: Are solar panels worth it? NXTGEN Energy’s guide to getting started - How Amazon is Preparing for the Energy Needs of the Future
☀️Amazon has over 600 renewable energy projects globally, with 230+ in Europe. ☀️These efforts support Amazon’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. ☀️Amazon remains the top global and European corporate renewable energy buyer for the fifth year. ☀️Key achievements include 46 new projects in Europe, doubling Japan’s capacity & 53 projects in India. Discover… Read more: How Amazon is Preparing for the Energy Needs of the Future - How Solar Panels Are Installed
What you can expect from a solar panel installation ☀️ Solar panel installations typically take about a day to complete, depending on the complexity of the system. ☀️ Solar panel installations require scaffolding, fixing brackets, wiring, inverter & interconnection to the grid. ☀️ Solar panel installations need to be done by MCS Certified installers, who… Read more: How Solar Panels Are Installed - How Solar Panels Increase Property Value
☀️ Solar panels can boost your home’s value by an average of £2,000 & command a price premium of 0.9% to 2%. ☀️ Homes with solar panels have better EPC ratings, which can increase property value by up to 14%. ☀️ Eco-friendly homes are in high demand, making solar-powered homes more attractive to buyers. ☀️… Read more: How Solar Panels Increase Property Value - Did You Know That Solar Costs Have Fallen by 82%?
☀️ Solar panel costs have dropped by 82% since 2010, making solar energy more accessible for UK homeowners. ☀️ Factors to consider before switching to solar include initial investment, energy savings, and roof suitability. ☀️ Government incentives, such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, can help offset the initial costs. ☀️ NxtGen Energy offers… Read more: Did You Know That Solar Costs Have Fallen by 82%?
