I = P / VNo power factor needed for DC circuits.
Convert solar panel wattage to current in amps. Critical for sizing charge controllers, battery cables, and combiner boxes. Most solar systems are DC: use voltage 12V, 24V, or 48V depending on your bank.
Power factor varies by load. Use the equipment value when available.
I = P / VCustom voltage is always supported.
I = P / VNo power factor needed for DC circuits.
I = P / (V × PF)Single-phase AC — multiply voltage by power factor.
I = P / (√3 × V × PF)Three-phase AC — divide by √3 ≈ 1.732.
400 / 24 = 16.67 A. This is the maximum charge current. Size your charge controller at least 25% higher: 16.67 x 1.25 = 20.8 A minimum.
Use the panel's rated (STC) watts for calculations. Real-world output is typically 75-80% due to temperature, shading, and irradiance. Always oversize charge controllers by 25%.