I have a 20W 5V solar panel (real output more like 10W in bright sun). Would like to harvest as much solar power as possible to a power bank to power a bluetooth speaker (< 5W consumption). Bright clear skies are a luxury where I am. The panel voltage fluctuates depending on the clouds etc, – damaged the circuit of a powerbank. Need something to act as a buffer.
I am considering a circuit using super capacitors (2 in series 2.7V 500F) as energy collectors / buffer — let the voltage build up to ~ 4.5V. Switch on the circuit at 4.5V and a boost/buck circuit mops up the power to charge a power bank. The switch is on till the voltage drops to ~2V. When the voltage drops to ~2V the switch turns off and stays off till the voltage rises up to ~4.5V again.
Are such configurable switching circuits available where one can set the upper and lower voltages? Or Is it easy to make one?
Or should I try a different approach altogether?
Looking forward to your suggestions.
simulate this circuit – Schematic created using CircuitLab
PS – Apologies, I am a newbie in the world of circuits.
Best Answer
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) will extract the maximum amount of power available from your solar panel. For this small amount of power output you probably want the best efficiency you can get. Using a supercap won't give you 5 volt regulation if that's what you're trying to achieve.