What is MPPT? The Complete Guide to Maximum Power Point Tracking

If you’re considering solar panels for your home or business, you’ve probably come across the term “MPPT” – Maximum Power Point Tracking. But what exactly is it, and why should you care? Let’s break down this crucial solar technology in simple terms.

Why Solar Panels Need “Tuning”

Think of solar panels like athletes running in changing weather conditions. They perform best under specific circumstances, but real-world conditions are constantly shifting due to:

The Constant Challenges Solar Panels Face

Sunlight Fluctuations: The Daily Rollercoaster
Solar panels are at the mercy of Mother Nature’s schedule:

Morning and Evening: Low sun angle means less direct light
Cloud Cover: Can reduce output by 50-90% in seconds
Seasonal Changes: Winter sun provides less energy than summer sun
Weather Patterns: Rain, snow, and dust all reduce performance

Temperature Swings: The Hidden Enemy
This might surprise you – solar panels actually work better in cooler conditions:

Hot Weather Penalty: For every degree above 77°F (25°C), efficiency drops 0.5%
Summer vs. Winter: A cold winter day might produce more power than a hot summer day
Roof Heat: Panels on hot roofs can lose 10-20% efficiency

Partial Shading: One Bad Apple Spoils the Bunch
Even small amounts of shade can cause massive power loss:

Single Leaf: A small tree branch can reduce an entire panel’s output by 50%
Chimney Shadows: Fixed structures create permanent shading issues
Neighbor Buildings: Growing trees or new construction can gradually worsen performance

Natural Aging: Everything Wears Out
Like any technology, solar panels degrade over time:

Annual Degradation: 0.5-1% less power each year
25-Year Warranty: Panels should still produce 80-85% of original power after 25 years
Maintenance Issues: Dirt, bird droppings, and wear can accelerate losses

The Cost of Not Optimizing

Without MPPT technology, solar systems waste significant energy:

Typical Loss: 15-30% of potential energy goes unused
Real-World Impact: That’s like buying a $100 item but only getting $70-$85 worth of value
Cumulative Effect: Over 20 years, this adds up to thousands of dollars in lost savings

How MPPT Works: The Science Simplified

Core Components

MPPT systems have three main parts:

1. Sensors: The Eyes and Ears
These are like the sensors in your car that monitor speed, temperature, and engine performance:

Voltage Sensors: Measure electrical “pressure” (like water pressure in a pipe)
Current Sensors: Measure electrical “flow” (like water flow in a river)
Temperature Sensors: Track how hot the panels are getting
Frequency: These measurements happen hundreds of times per second

2. Processor: The Brain
This is the decision-maker that processes all the sensor data:

Microcontroller: A small computer that runs the MPPT algorithms
Memory: Stores historical data and operating patterns
Communication: Talks to monitoring systems and other components
Speed: Makes decisions in milliseconds to respond to changing conditions

3. DC-DC Converter: The Muscle
This component actually implements the brain’s decisions:

Electronic Switching: Rapidly turns power on and off (thousands of times per second)
Voltage Adjustment: Can increase or decrease voltage as needed
Efficiency: Modern converters are 97-99% efficient
Flexibility: Can work with different input and output voltages

The Optimization Process

The process is surprisingly simple:

Step 1: Measure (Like Taking Your Pulse)
The system constantly checks vital signs:

Voltage Reading: “How much electrical pressure am I producing?”
Current Reading: “How much electrical flow am I generating?”
Power Calculation: “My power output is Voltage × Current”

Step 2: Calculate (Like a Doctor Analyzing Your Health)
The processor analyzes the measurements:

Trend Analysis: “Is my power going up or down?”
Optimization Check: “Am I operating at peak efficiency?”
Comparison: “How does this compare to previous readings?”

Step 3: Adjust (Like Adjusting Your Workout)
Based on the analysis, the system makes changes:

Voltage Tweaking: Small adjustments to find the sweet spot
Resistance Matching: Changes how the panel “sees” the load
Continuous Fine-Tuning: Never stops optimizing

Step 4: Repeat (Like Continuous Health Monitoring)
The process never stops:

Loop Cycle: Completes the entire process 100-1,000 times per second
Adaptation: Responds instantly to changing conditions
Learning: Some systems remember patterns for better performance

Understanding the Key Electrical Concepts

MPP (Maximum Power Point) – The Sweet Spot
Think of this like your car’s most fuel-efficient speed:

Definition: The exact voltage and current combination that produces maximum power
Location: Changes with every environmental condition
Importance: This is what MPPT is constantly hunting for

I-V Curve (Current-Voltage Relationship)
Imagine water flowing through a pipe at different pressures:

Shape: Starts high current/low voltage, ends low current/high voltage
Peak: The MPP occurs at a specific point along this curve
Movement: The entire curve shifts with changing conditions

P-V Curve (Power-Voltage Relationship)
This is where the magic happens:

Hill Shape: Looks like a mountain with one clear peak
The Goal: Find the top of this hill (the MPP)
Dynamic Nature: The hill changes shape and moves around

MPPT Algorithms Compared

Different “hunting strategies” to find the peak power point:

1. Perturb and Observe (P&O) – The Trial and Error Method

How It Works
Like feeling your way in the dark to find a light switch:

Make a small adjustment to voltage
Check if power increased or decreased
If power increased, keep going in that direction
If power decreased, reverse direction
Repeat continuously

Advantages

Simple Implementation: Easy to program and understand
Low Cost: Doesn’t require expensive processors
Widely Used: Powers about 80% of residential systems
Reliable: Proven technology with decades of use

Disadvantages

Oscillation: Never settles perfectly – keeps wobbling around the peak
Confusion: Can get confused during rapid cloud changes
Energy Loss: Small but continuous energy loss from oscillation
Direction Errors: May hunt in wrong direction during fast changes

Best Applications

Budget-Conscious Installations: Where cost is the primary concern
Simple Roof Layouts: Unshaded, uniform conditions
Residential Systems: Most common home solar applications

2. Incremental Conductance – The Mathematical Approach

How It Works
Uses calculus principles to find the exact peak:

Calculate instantaneous conductance (I/V)
Calculate incremental conductance (ΔI/ΔV)
Compare the two values
When they’re equal, you’re at maximum power
Make precise adjustments to maintain this condition

Advantages

Precision: Finds exact MPP without oscillation
Fast Response: Quickly adapts to changing conditions
Stable Operation: No continuous hunting around the peak
Scientific Accuracy: Based on mathematical principles

Disadvantages

Complex Processing: Requires more powerful computers
Higher Cost: More expensive hardware and software
Noise Sensitivity: Measurement errors can cause problems
Implementation Challenge: More difficult to program correctly

Best Applications

Commercial Installations: Where maximum efficiency is critical
Complex Systems: Multiple panels with varying conditions
High-Value Applications: Where every watt matters financially

3. Global Scanning – The Complete Survey Method

How It Works
Like scanning an entire landscape to find the highest mountain:

Systematically scan the entire voltage range
Map out all power peaks (including false ones)
Identify the global maximum (true highest peak)
Lock onto that point for optimal operation
Periodically rescan to check for changes

Advantages

Complete Analysis: Finds the absolute best operating point
Shade Resilience: Works perfectly with partial shading
No False Peaks: Won’t get trapped on local maxima
Maximum Recovery: Gets the most power from shaded conditions

Disadvantages

Time-Consuming: Takes longer to complete full scans
Temporary Loss: Power output drops during scanning periods
High Processing: Requires sophisticated algorithms
Cost Premium: Most expensive implementation method

Best Applications

Heavily Shaded Installations: Trees, buildings, or complex rooflines
High-Value Systems: Where shade losses are financially significant
Commercial Applications: Large systems where optimization pays off

Where MPPT Lives in Solar Systems

1. String Inverters (Most Common)

How They Work
Think of this as having one smart controller for a group of panels:

Single Controller: One MPPT unit manages 8-20 panels connected in series
Centralized Inversion: Converts DC power from multiple strings to AC power
Cost-Effective: Lower per-watt cost than distributed solutions
Simple Installation: Fewer components and connection points

Advantages

Lower Upfront Cost: Most affordable MPPT option
Simplified Maintenance: Fewer components to service
Proven Technology: Decades of reliable operation
Good for Uniform Roofs: Excellent performance on simple, unshaded roofs

Disadvantages

String-Level Optimization: Entire string limited by weakest panel
Shading Vulnerability: One shaded panel affects whole string
Orientation Limitations: Mixed roof directions reduce efficiency
Limited Monitoring: Only string-level performance data

Best Applications

Simple Roof Layouts: Uniform, unshaded conditions
Budget-Conscious Projects: Where initial cost is primary concern
New Construction: Clean slate with optimal panel placement

2. Microinverters (Panel-Level Optimization)

How They Work
Each panel gets its own personal trainer:

Individual Inverters: Dedicated MPPT and inverter for each panel
Independent Operation: Each panel works at its optimal point
AC Output: Each microinverter produces AC power directly
Networked Communication: All units communicate for system monitoring

Advantages

Complete Shading Immunity: Shaded panels don’t affect others
Maximum Energy Harvest: Each panel produces peak power
Detailed Monitoring: Individual panel performance tracking
Enhanced Safety: Low DC voltage reduces electrical hazards
Easy Expansion: Simple to add more panels later

Disadvantages

Higher Cost: 30-50% premium over string inverters
More Components: Increased potential failure points
Complex Installation: More wiring and mounting required
Heat Management: Individual units can get hot on roofs

Best Applications

Complex Roof Layouts: Multiple orientations, chimneys, trees
Existing Homes: Where shading is already present
High-Value Installations: Where maximum energy production is critical
Monitoring Requirements: When detailed performance data is needed

3. Power Optimizers (The Hybrid Solution)

How They Work
Best of both worlds approach:

DC-DC Optimization: MPPT at each panel level
Centralized Inversion: One main inverter converts DC to AC
Module-Level Electronics: Each panel has optimization electronics
String Inverter Benefits: Simpler AC conversion and fewer components

Advantages

Shading Mitigation: Individual panel optimization prevents losses
Cost Balance: Mid-point pricing between string and microinverters
System Monitoring: Panel-level performance data available
Flexibility: Can mix optimizer and non-optimizer panels
Reliability: Fewer complex components than microinverters

Disadvantages

Moderate Cost: More expensive than basic string inverters
Partial Solution: Still uses centralized inverter technology
Installation Complexity: Requires both optimizer and inverter installation
Technology Lock-in: Often tied to specific manufacturer ecosystems

Best Applications

Moderate Shading: Some obstacles but not severe shading
Budget-Conscious Projects: Want shading benefits without premium cost
Professional Installations: Where installers prefer hybrid approach
Growing Systems: Plans to expand solar installation over time

4. MPPT Charge Controllers (Off-Grid Essentials)

How They Work
Critical for battery-based systems:

Battery Charging Optimization: Adjusts charging for battery chemistry
Load Management: Balances charging and power consumption
System Protection: Prevents overcharging and deep discharge
Energy Management: Prioritizes loads based on available energy

Advantages

Charging Efficiency: 20-30% faster battery charging vs. older technology
Cold Weather Performance: Better operation in low temperatures
Deep Discharge Recovery: Special algorithms for severely discharged batteries
Multi-Stage Charging: Proper bulk, absorption, and float charging
Load Control: Can manage multiple loads and priorities

Disadvantages

DC-Only Output: Cannot directly connect to AC loads
Battery Dependency: Requires compatible battery chemistry
Limited Grid Integration: Not suitable for grid-tied systems
Specialized Knowledge: Requires understanding of battery systems

Best Applications

Off-Grid Homes: No utility grid connection
Remote Locations: Cabins, RVs, boats, and remote sites
Backup Power Systems: Emergency power with battery storage
Hybrid Systems: Grid-tied with battery backup capability

Why MPPT is Non-Negotiable: 5 Key Benefits

1. 10-30% More Energy

The Numbers Game
This isn’t just theoretical – it translates to real money:

Average Home System: 6kW system gains 600-1,800 kWh/year
Financial Impact: $100-$300 annual savings (varies by location)
20-Year Value: $2,000-$6,000 additional savings over system life
Payback Period: Typically pays for itself in 3-7 years

Real-World Example
A homeowner in California with a 7kW system:

Without MPPT: Produces 9,500 kWh/year
With MPPT: Produces 11,500 kWh/year
Annual Gain: 2,000 kWh = $500 savings
20-Year Savings: $10,000 additional value

2. Superior Shade Resilience

Handling Real-World Challenges
Shade is inevitable, but MPPT systems handle it gracefully:

Basic Systems: Lose 50-90% of shaded panel’s output
MPPT Systems: Recover 50-70% of shade losses
Partial Recovery: Even heavily shaded systems maintain reasonable output
Dynamic Adaptation: Instantly respond to moving shadows

Practical Benefits

Tree Growth: System performance degrades gracefully as trees grow
Seasonal Changes: Better performance during winter low-sun periods
Building Shadows: New construction or additions don’t devastate performance
Maintenance Windows: System continues producing during cleaning or repairs

3. Faster Battery Charging

Critical for Off-Grid Systems
In battery-based systems, every minute of charging matters:

Charging Time Reduction: 1-2 hours faster daily charging
Winter Performance: Crucial during short daylight hours
Battery Health: Proper charging extends battery lifespan
System Reliability: More consistent power availability

Real-World Impact
An off-grid cabin in Colorado:

PWM Controller: 4 hours to fully charge batteries
MPPT Controller: 3 hours to fully charge batteries
Daily Benefit: 1 extra hour of usable daylight
Winter Critical: Makes difference between power and no power

4. Mixed Panel/Orientation Support

Flexible System Design
MPPT enables creative and practical system designs:

East-West Roofs: Combine different roof orientations without penalty
Panel Mixing: Use different panel types or ages in same system
Expansion Flexibility: Add panels to different roof sections
Space Optimization: Make use of every available roof area

Design Freedom

Complex Roofs: Utilize every square foot effectively
Future Expansion: Easy to add more panels later
Replacement Flexibility: Replace individual panels without system impact
Optimization: Get maximum value from irregular roof layouts

5. Extended Equipment Life

Gentle on Components
MPPT systems are easier on all connected equipment:

Battery Longevity: Stable voltage reduces battery stress and extends life
Component Reliability: Less electrical stress on all system components
Thermal Management: Better power conversion reduces heat buildup
System Stability: Consistent operation reduces wear and tear

Long-Term Benefits

Reduced Replacement Costs: Longer equipment lifespan means fewer replacements
Lower Maintenance: More reliable operation requires less service
Warranty Benefits: Better performance often comes with extended warranties
Peace of Mind: More predictable, reliable system operation

Real-World Impact: Case Studies

Case Study 1: Suburban Home with Trees

The Challenge
A family in Oregon with a beautiful tree-lined property:

Property Features: Large oak trees casting moving shadows
Roof Layout: Complex with multiple orientations
Energy Needs: Standard family home with typical electricity usage
Installation Size: 8kW system on 2,200 square foot roof

Without MPPT Technology

Energy Loss: 30% output loss when shadows moved across panels
Daily Variation: Performance fluctuated wildly with cloud movement
Seasonal Impact: Winter performance severely degraded by low sun angle
Financial Impact: $400 annual energy loss ($8,000 over 20 years)

With Microinverter Solution

Shade Loss: Reduced to <8% loss from tree shadows
Consistent Performance: Stable output despite moving shadows
Winter Improvement: Better cold-weather performance
Payback: Premium cost paid back in 4 years through energy gains
20-Year Savings: Additional $12,000 in energy production

Key Takeaways

Investment Protection: Trees enhance property value while MPPT protects solar investment
System Reliability: Consistent performance despite environmental challenges
Future-Proofing: System adapts as trees grow and conditions change

Case Study 2: Commercial Warehouse

The Challenge
A manufacturing facility in Texas with a large, complex roof:

Building Features: Multiple roof sections, ventilation pipes, and equipment
Energy Demand: High electricity usage with peak demand charges
Installation Size: 150kW system across 15,000 square feet of roof
Business Impact: Energy costs directly affect profitability

The Problem

Moving Shadows: Ventilation stacks created dynamic shading patterns
Temperature Issues: Hot Texas summers reduced panel efficiency
Peak Demand: Need to maximize energy production during high-rate periods
Monitoring Needs: Required detailed performance data for energy management

The Solution

Power Optimizers: MPPT per panel with centralized inverter
Global Scanning: Advanced algorithms to handle complex shading
Real-Time Monitoring: Individual panel performance tracking
Predictive Maintenance: Early detection of underperforming components

The Results

Energy Gain: 12% higher annual yield vs. traditional string inverters
Peak Performance: 15% better performance during critical demand periods
Maintenance Savings: $15,000 annual savings from reduced maintenance
ROI: Premium paid back in 3.5 years, $200,000 additional value over 20 years

Business Impact

Operational Efficiency: More predictable energy costs and production
Competitive Advantage: Lower energy costs improve product pricing
Sustainability Goals: Better performance supports corporate environmental commitments
Asset Value: Enhanced building value through superior energy infrastructure

Case Study 3: Off-Grid Cabin

The Challenge
A remote vacation home in Colorado mountains:

Location: 9,000 feet elevation with harsh winters
Energy Needs: Basic electricity for lights, refrigerator, and communications
System Requirements: Must operate reliably year-round with minimal maintenance
Charging Window: Short winter days make every watt crucial

The Setup

Panel Array: 3kW system on south-facing roof section
Battery Bank: 48V lithium battery system (8kWh capacity)
Loads: LED lighting, small refrigerator, satellite internet, water pump
Backup: Propane backup for heating and cooking

PWM Controller Performance

Charging Time: 4 hours to fully charge batteries on good days
Winter Limitation: Often couldn’t fully charge during short winter days
Temperature Issues: Hot summer days reduced charging efficiency
Reliability: Required daily monitoring and manual adjustments

MPPT Controller Upgrade

Improved Charging: 3 hours to fully charge batteries (25% faster)
Winter Performance: Consistently charged batteries even in December
Cold Weather: Better low-temperature voltage adaptation
Automatic Operation: No daily monitoring or manual adjustments needed

Real-World Benefits

Energy Security: Never ran out of power during winter months
User Convenience: Set-it-and-forget-it operation
Cost Savings: Eliminated need for backup generator usage
Peace of Mind: Reliable power for critical communications and safety systems

Cost vs. Value Breakdown

Understanding the Investment

Initial Cost Comparison

System Type	Relative Cost	Typical Price Range	MPPT Included
Basic PWM	1.0x (Baseline)	$1,500-2,500 for 6kW	No
String Inverter	1.2x-1.3x	$1,800-3,200 for 6kW	Yes
Power Optimizers	1.3x-1.4x	$2,000-3,500 for 6kW	Yes
Microinverters	1.4x-1.5x	$2,100-3,800 for 6kW	Yes

Long-Term Value Analysis

Factor	Basic System	MPPT System	Value Difference
Upfront Cost	$2,500	$3,500	+$1,000
Annual Energy	8,000 kWh	10,000 kWh	+2,000 kWh
Annual Savings	$1,200	$1,500	+$300
Payback Period	N/A	3.3 years
20-Year Value	$24,000	$30,000	+$6,000

Break-Even Analysis

Typical Payback: 3-5 years for most residential installations
Value Addition: Often exceeds premium cost within first decade
Market Impact: MPPT systems command 5-10% higher resale value
Total Ownership: MPPT systems typically deliver $3,000-$10,000 more value over 20 years

Regional Variations

Energy value varies significantly by location:

High-Energy-Cost Areas (California, Hawaii): Faster payback (2-4 years)
Moderate-Cost Areas (Texas, Florida): Standard payback (3-5 years)
Low-Cost Areas (Washington, Idaho): Slower payback (4-7 years)
Net Metering States: Better financial returns through energy sales

Incentive Considerations

Many regions offer additional benefits:

Tax Credits: Federal and state incentives apply to total system cost
Rebates: Some utilities offer MPPT-specific rebates
Performance Incentives: Programs that pay for actual energy production
Property Value: Increased home value often exceeds system cost

The Future: Next-Gen MPPT

1. AI Predictive Tracking

Smart Forecasting
Future MPPT systems will be proactive rather than reactive:

Weather Integration: Use weather forecasts to pre-optimize settings
Learning Algorithms: Systems learn your roof’s patterns over time
Predictive Adjustments: Anticipate conditions rather than just responding
Performance Optimization: Continuously improve based on historical data

Expected Benefits

Energy Gain: Additional 2-5% annual energy production
System Longevity: Better stress management extends equipment life
User Experience: More predictable and reliable system operation
Maintenance Reduction: Predictive maintenance reduces service calls

2. Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Silicon Carbide (SiC) Transistors

Next-Generation Electronics
New semiconductor materials enable better performance:

Higher Efficiency: 99.3% vs. today’s 97-98% efficiency
Faster Switching: Thousands of times per second vs. hundreds
Better Thermal Performance: Reduced heat generation and better cooling
Smaller Size: More power in smaller, lighter packages

Practical Impact

Energy Savings: Additional 1-2% system efficiency
Cost Reduction: Smaller, lighter systems reduce installation costs
Reliability Improvement: Better thermal management extends lifespan
Performance Enhancement: Faster response to changing conditions

3. Blockchain-Enabled Monitoring

Transparent Performance Tracking
Distributed ledger technology for solar system management:

Immutable Records: Permanent performance data that can’t be altered
Smart Contracts: Automated performance guarantees and payments
Peer Comparison: Compare your system to similar installations
Verification: Third-party verification of system performance

Benefits for Owners

Performance Guarantees: Automated compensation for underperformance
Market Transparency: Better understanding of system value and performance
Investment Security: Permanent records for warranty and resale purposes
Grid Integration: Better coordination with utility grid management

4. Voltage Scalability for Utility-Scale Systems

High-Voltage Advantages
Future systems will operate at much higher voltages:

1,500V Standard: vs. today’s 600V-1,000V systems
Reduced Current: Lower current reduces losses and cable size
Cost Savings: Smaller cables and connections reduce balance-of-system costs
Efficiency Gains: Better performance in high-temperature environments

Large-Scale Impact

Utility Installations: Massive cost savings for large solar farms
Commercial Systems: Better economics for large rooftop installations
Grid Integration: Easier connection to high-voltage transmission systems
Future-Proofing: Systems ready for next-generation grid requirements

Key Takeaways

1. MPPT is Mandatory for Modern Solar

No More Compromises: Basic PWM controllers are obsolete technology
Standard Requirement: All new installations should include MPPT
Code Compliance: Many building codes now require MPPT technology
Industry Standard: Professional installers no longer offer non-MPPT options

2. Panel-Level Optimization Beats String Systems in Shade

Shade Reality: Most installations have some shading challenges
Performance Impact: Panel-level optimization delivers measurable benefits
Investment Protection: Future-proofing against changing conditions
Value Proposition: Premium cost justified by energy gains

3. Global Scanning Algorithms Are Essential for Complex Installations

Shading Complexity: Modern roofs rarely have uniform conditions
Algorithm Selection: Choose technology appropriate for your situation
Performance Optimization: Advanced algorithms deliver superior results
Long-Term Benefits: Better performance in challenging conditions

4. The 20-40% Premium Pays for Itself Within 3-7 Years

Quick Payback: Energy gains typically exceed premium cost quickly
Long-Term Value: 20-year value often exceeds premium by $3,000-$10,000
Market Recognition: Resale value reflects MPPT investment
Risk Management: Better performance reduces system risk

5. New Technology (AI/GaN) Will Push Efficiencies Above 99%

Continuous Improvement: Technology advances deliver ongoing benefits
Future-Proofing: Early adoption positions systems for next-generation improvements
Performance Gains: Ongoing efficiency improvements add value over time
Innovation Pipeline: Multiple technology advances coming to market

Making the Right Choice for Your System

Questions to Ask Your Installer

What type of MPPT technology do you recommend for my specific situation?
How will shading on my property affect system performance?
What monitoring capabilities come with the system?
What is the expected payback period for the MPPT investment?
Are there any local rebates or incentives for MPPT systems?

Signs You Need MPPT Technology

Your roof has any shading from trees, chimneys, or buildings
You have a complex roof layout with multiple orientations
You live in an area with significant temperature variations
You’re planning to expand your solar system in the future
You want detailed monitoring of your system performance

Final Thoughts

The Perfect Analogy

MPPT is like an automatic transmission continuously shifting gears to maintain optimal RPM. Basic solar is a fixed gear bike – MPPT transforms it into a Tesla with intelligent performance tuning.

Investment Perspective

Think of MPPT as insurance for your solar investment – it protects against energy losses and ensures you get maximum return on your solar installation.

Decision Framework

When choosing solar technology:

Assess Your Conditions: How much shade do you have?
Calculate Value: What’s the energy value in your area?
Consider Future: Will conditions change over time?
Evaluate Options: Compare different MPPT implementations
Make the Investment: Choose technology that maximizes long-term value

The Bottom Line

For any solar installation – residential, commercial, or off-grid – MPPT isn’t an “extra.” It’s the cornerstone of efficiency that typically adds more value than it costs. The question isn’t whether you can afford MPPT technology – it’s whether you can afford not to include it in your solar installation.