If you're planning a more substantial solar setup and are comfortable adding a DC-to-DC converter, a 24V system is a great middle ground. For large, full-time setups requiring high efficiency, a 48V system might be worth the investment, provided you're okay with the added complexity.
Small systems, such as those on an RV or boat, should use 12V systems, while larger solar arrays do best with 24V. A good rule of thumb is that if your energy needs are less than 1,000 watts, go for a 12V system. If you use between 1,000 and 3,000 watts, then a 24V system is best.
Since we have 24V batteries, we also want 24V solar panels. The amp output of a 24V 250-watt solar panel will be 10.4A. This is under ideal conditions, as variation in sunlight will affect the power output, and the amp output, of our solar panels. When wiring solar panels, you can choose to wire either in series or parallel.
Previously, with 12V systems, that meant adding more panels, larger capacity charge controllers, and huge battery banks, plus all that beefy wiring. Now, many solar consumers with higher energy demands are moving away from 12V and toward 24V and 48V systems for overall cost-space-benefit.
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