PV newbie question - parallel connect 2 different panels (15.8 and 16.5 volts)?

normally it would not be an issue, and i would tell you to get a combiner box and do it like in this schematic

http://store.altenergystore.com/descfiles/kits2go/kitcabin1/cabin-170w.jpg

but, seeing how different the modules are, polycrystalline Si, and CIGS, their VOC and VMP are pretty different.  that combo would not be my first choice, but you could provided you used a charge controller at least, and hopefully a combiner box.

i would feel more comfy if you would add another global solar on the same controller like this
http://store.altenergystore.com/Solar-Panels/51-to-99-Watt-Solar-Panels/Global-Solar-60W-12V-Framed-Module/p5574/
that way, the voltages and cell types would match.

it is connecting modules in series that dont match that is the no-no.  although not ideal, connecting different modules in parallel that are the same nominal voltage is okay.  your connection of silicon and non-silicon modules is a new one, so maybe it is fear of the unknown on my part that makes me worried.

james
Alt-E staff

if  you like the advent cell unit or any other for that matter, you could always go with two charge controllers.  cigs and amorphous SI will take up more space than mono or poly modules.  since the 50 is of greater expense and if you wanted to expand later you could do so with smaller physical space with mono or poly and just hand me down the ss-10 when you upgrade to a larger controllers for your multiple larger modules.

btw, the morningstar is a good choice (perhaps by accident) because it can withstand higher open circuit voltages often from amorphous SI or Cigs.

james
Alt-E staff