What is a 48V Solar Panel? 2025 Guide on 48-Volt Solar Panel Price, Benefits, and Wiring Process

A 48V solar panel is a modern photovoltaic module with a nominal voltage output of 48 volts. When sunlight falls on the solar cells in these panels, they create DC output. In a real system, this DC power goes to a 48V-class inverter for grid use or to an MPPT charge controller, which safely charges a 48V battery bank. The 48V label primarily indicates which inverters and controllers it is designed to work with. 

48 volts is the nominal voltage of these panels. Actual voltage varies with sunlight and temperature. The maximum power voltage (Vmp) under STC for 48V solar panels can range between ~41-45 volts, and the open-circuit voltage (Voc) can range between ~49-52 volts.

Simply put, a 48V solar panel is a module that reads about ~49-52 volts with no load (open circuit) and about ~41-45 volts at the MPPT’s operating point under Standard Test Conditions. Understanding solar panel voltage types is important because nominal voltages are used for classification purposes only, and the actual voltage a solar panel produces varies. 

48V solar panels differ from legacy 12V and 24V modules mainly in cell count and intended use. They are mostly made of TOPCon and modern PERC cell designs with half-cut silicon cells, to achieve a maximum power voltage (Vmp) ranging from ~41 to 45V and an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of ~49 to 52V. 

Unlike the common belief that a high-voltage solar panel is beneficial only for large solar systems used in businesses and industries, a 48-volt solar panel is equally suitable for rooftop solar panel systems for homes. They offer significant advantages, including reduced current flow, thinner cable requirements, lower installation costs, and improved system efficiency, all of which increase the return on investment for homeowners.

In this blog, we will explain what a 48V solar panel is, how it is used to design a 48V solar system, its specifications, working process, benefits, and tips to connect a 48V solar panel to a 48V solar inverter. We will also provide a walkthrough of the cost of installing a rooftop on-grid solar system using 48V solar panels and the savings it offers over 25 years.  

TL;DR Summary Box: Is There a 48V Solar Panel?

Yes, 48V solar panels are available as single modules, made using advanced mono-PERC and TOPCon cell technologies that use half-cut cell designs. These panels have a nominal voltage of 48 volts. Unlike the older polycrystalline panels available in lower wattages, such as 200 watts or 300 watts, 48V solar panels are high-wattage panels, typically ranging from 500 watts to 700 watts, depending on the cell technology used.

Here are the main topics covered in this blog in detail:

What is a 48V Solar Panel?

A 48V solar panel is a modern solar module designed to work with 48V solar systems. It uses newer cell technologies, such as PERC or TOPCon, to operate efficiently and minimize wire losses. The 48-volt label is only a nominal rating. It tells you which inverters and solar charge controllers the panel pairs well with. It does not mean the panel will always output exactly 48 volts.

In real life, voltage dwindles because sunlight and temperature constantly change. Under Standard Test Conditions, a typical 48V panel has a maximum power voltage (Vmp) of ~41 to 45 volts and an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of around 49 to 52 volts. 

The actual voltages can vary further in the real world from the stated Vmp and Voc, as the panel may produce 5-10% less voltage than Vmp on a hot afternoon and generate 5-10% more on a colder day, because voltage tends to increase as the temperature drops.

So, what exactly does a 48V panel actually do in a 48V solar power system?

Well, the panel converts solar radiation into DC power. That DC power then goes to one of two places, depending on your setup.

• In an on-grid solar system: The DC from the panel goes to a 48V-class MPPT solar inverter. The MPPT inverter ensures the panel produces maximum possible energy at any given time during the day, and converts the generated DC into AC power for your home and the grid.
• In an off-grid solar system: The DC first goes to an MPPT charge controller, which is sized for 48V lithium batteries. The controller safely charges the lithium battery bank. From there, the inverter draws power from the batteries to run the connected appliances.

In short, the panel itself does not charge a 48V battery directly. It feeds DC into a charge controller that manages charging in a battery-based solar system or converts the power to usable AC in an on-grid solar system. 

What is a 48V Solar System?

A 48V solar power system is a solar setup where most of the equipment, such as the inverter, charge controller, and battery, is designed to operate at a 48V voltage level. It can be built as on-grid, off-grid, or hybrid, depending on how you want to use and store the power.

• 48V on-grid solar system: The solar panels send DC power to a 48V solar inverter, which converts it into AC power for your home and the grid. These systems don’t have a battery.
• 48V off-grid solar system: The panels feed a DC output into a solar charge controller, which charges a 48V battery bank. An inverter then draws energy from the battery to power your home when the sun isn’t shining.
• 48V hybrid solar system: A hybrid solar inverter handles two jobs. It powers home appliances and the grid (if the DISCOM permits net metering), and also charges the battery bank through a built-in solar charge controller.

Here are the main components of a 48V solar system:

• 48V solar panels: They are usually wired in series to increase voltage and then in parallel to achieve the desired kW capacity of your solar system.
• 48V solar inverter: It converts DC power from solar panels or a battery to AC power for your home. 
• MPPT charge controller for battery charging in battery-based solar systems: It takes the higher array voltage and charges the 48 V battery safely.
• 48V battery bank in off-grid and hybrid systems: This battery bank stores the solar energy to keep the load running at night.

What Are the 48V Solar Panel Specifications?

A 48V solar panel has a nominal voltage of 48 volts, but maximum power voltage (Vmp) and open-circuit voltage (Voc) are different. Under STC, the Vmp of a 48V solar panel can range between ~41-45 volts,  and the open-circuit voltage (Voc) can range between ~49-52 volts. 

Let’s check out all the key 48V solar panel specifications in detail:

*Please note: These 48V solar panel specifications are only estimated ranges for mono-PERC or TOPCon half-cut panels and are meant as a guide. Actual numbers can vary by brand, model, and even by production batch. Remember that Vmp, Voc, Isc, and efficiency are rated at STC, while real-world values will be different. Temperature and sunlight fluctuate voltage and current throughout the day, resulting in varying readings. Always rely on the panel’s official datasheet for exact specifications, tolerances, and temperature coefficients. Always rely on the panel’s official datasheet for exact specifications, tolerances, and temperature coefficients. 

How to Wire Solar Panels for 48 Volts?

Solar panels are connected in series to make a string. Strings raise the DC voltage, ensuring the inverter or MPPT charge controller can operate within its optimal range. Since the panel strings usually run at voltages higher than 48 V, it’s essential to keep the string voltage within the inverter or controller’s working window and well below their maximum DC limit in all weather conditions. 

Since these panels generate direct current (DC), which can arc and cause serious injuries, it is highly recommended not to attempt wiring solar panels on your own. Always seek professional help for your safety and the safety of your solar equipment. 

That said, here’s the sequence of steps professionals follow when wiring solar panels to reach 48 volts:

• Step 1 – The system type is confirmed: It is decided whether the setup is on-grid, off-grid, or hybrid. This guides how the panels will connect and what the input needs to be.
• Step 2 – The device’s limit is checked: The working voltage window and the maximum open-circuit voltage are determined from the inverter or MPPT manual. The string must stay within these limits in all seasons.
• Step 3 – The panel data is noted: Vmp, Voc, and short-circuit current are taken from the panel label or datasheet. Temperature coefficients are noted for hot and cold checks.
• Step 4 – The panels per string are chosen: The number of panels in series is selected so that the working voltage is within the device’s optimal range for most of the day.
• Step 5 – The series links are made: The negative of panel 1 is linked to the positive of panel 2. The negative of panel 2 is linked to the positive of panel 3. This repeats until the string is complete. One free positive remains at one end and one free negative at the other. These two free leads are the string outputs.
• Step 6 – The strings in parallel are added if more power is needed: A second identical string is built the same way. Positives join to positives and negatives join to negatives through a combiner or Y-shaped MC4 connectors. Total input current is kept within the device limit.
• Step 7 – The connection to the device is made: The positive end of the string is connected to PV+, and the negative end is connected to PV- on the inverter or charge controller. Polarity is checked before tightening. 

How Do 48V Solar Panels Work?

48V solar panels work in the same way as any other solar panel. They use the photovoltaic effect to convert sunlight into solar electricity. In a mono-PERC half-cut panel, each full cell is divided into two smaller cells, and a special rear layer is incorporated that reflects some light into the cell. Cutting the cell reduces the current inside each path, which in turn lowers heat and loss. The panel is also divided internally into two sections to ensure that one side can continue working even if the other side is shaded. 

Let’s check out how 48V solar panels with mono-PERC half-cut solar cells work:

• Step 1 – Sunlight falls on the solar panels: Solar panels have silicon solar cells that capture photons present in the sunlight.
• Step 2 – Photons knock electrons loose and energize them: Photons free some electrons inside the cells. The empty spots they leave behind act like a positive charge.
• Step 3 – Charges are separated: A built-in electric field at the p-n junction pushes electrons in one direction and the positive charge in the opposite direction. The PERC rear layer helps by redirecting some light back into the cell, allowing for extra power to be produced.
• Step 4 – Cells build up the voltage: Each small cell makes a little voltage. The cells are linked in long series chains to build the panel’s voltage. In a half-cut design, the panel has two sections inside. Each section is its own chain. Bypass diodes in the junction box let power flow around a shaded section.
• Step 5 – Current flow out as DC output: All the linked cells produce a steady, one-way flow of current. 
• Step 6 – The DC output connects to the solar equipment: In an on-grid system, the DC power is sent to a solar inverter, which converts it to AC for your home and the grid. In a hybrid or off-grid solar system, the DC is managed by an MPPT charge controller or a hybrid inverter, which charges a 48 V battery.

Which is Better For Solar, 24V or 48V Solar Panels?

48V solar panels are the ideal choice for rooftop solar systems for housing societies, homes, commercial complexes, and industries because they pack more power per panel and operate at a higher working voltage. As a result, they carry less current for the same watts. 

Less current means thinner cables, lower wiring loss, and cleaner installations. Modern 48V solar panels also pair well with hybrid inverters, making it easier to scale from a few kilowatts to larger systems without much hassle.

Here’s a detailed table comparing the two types, proving why 48V solar panels are dominating residential and commercial rooftop systems in India:

Which Are the Best Solar Panels for a 48V System?

Mono-PERC and TOPCon solar panels with a half-cut cell design are the best solar panels for a 48V solar system, as they offer improved shade performance, lower temperature coefficients, and higher wattages. 

Let’s check out the multiple reasons why mono-PERC and TOPCon are the best solar panels for 48V solar power systems:

• They deliver higher wattage per panel: You will need fewer panels to reach the desired solar system size. This shortens install time and uses less roof space.
• Their working voltage is higher: It requires wiring fewer panels to reach the inverter’s working range. This makes designing the string simpler.
• They generate less heat and run cooler: Half-cut solar cells carry lower current in each path. This reduces heat and helps the panel hold its output.
• They handle shade better: The panel is split into two sections with bypass diodes. If one side is shaded, the other side can still produce power.
• They perform better even in low-light conditions: PERC and TOPCon capture more of the available light. Mornings, evenings, and cloudy hours add useful energy.
• Their temperature coefficient is lower: These panels lose less power as they heat up. Output stays closer to the rated value on hot afternoons.
• They reduce voltage drop on longer runs: Lower current means less loss when the output is being transmitted in the cables. As a result, most of the power generated by the panels reaches the inverter, rather than being lost as heat. Needless to say, this means you get better returns on your investment.
• They are widely available with long warranties: Many brands stock these models and back them with warranties that last for decades. Finding replacements later is simpler.
• Mono-PERC and TOPCon panels are available in bifacial designs: Bifacial solar panels capture light from both the front and the back, making them ideal for reflective roofs. This gives an extra energy boost.

Here are the most important specifications you should know about these two solar panel types: 

What’s the 48-Volt Solar Panel Price in India in 2025?

48-volt solar panel price in India varies significantly, not only based on whether the panel is TOPCon or PERC, but also whether it’s being used for residential or commercial solar systems. 

Let’s break down the cost into commercial and residential sections for simpler categorization. 

Solar Panel Price in India for Commercial and Industrial Installations in 2025

The cost of industrial rooftop solar systems can range between ~Rs. 42 per watt-peak* for solar systems less than 100 kW to ~Rs. 28 per watt-peak* for systems above 1 MW. 

Let’s check out the price list for solar panels for commercial rooftop systems in India in 2025 in detail:

*Please note: The cost of commercial solar panels listed above is indicative, and not fixed. The final cost of industrial solar systems can vary based on the type of solar panels you use (imported TOPCon and non-DCR solar panels have a cost variation of ~15%), type of solar inverter you choose (string inverters and optimizers have a cost variation of ~10-15%), type of solar system, whether or not you use a battery energy storage system (it increases the final cost by almost 30%), mounting structure height, type of after-sales service, roof height, etc. 

Solar Panel Price in India For Homes in 2025

The cost of installing a high-wattage solar panel, such as a 540Wp mono-PERC bifacial solar panel in India, can range between ~Rs. 80,000* in Lucknow to ~Rs. 1.35 lakh* in Bengaluru for a 2 kW solar system and ~Rs. 4.42 lakh* in Lucknow to ~Rs. 5.37 lakh* in Bengaluru for a 10 kW solar system with subsidy. 

*Please note: The above-mentioned solar panel price is indicative as of 4th October 2025 for the SolarSquare Blue 6ft variant. The final cost of installing an on-grid rooftop solar panel system at home depends on your DISCOM charges, product variant opted for, panel type, inverter type, mounting structure height, type of after-sales service, savings guarantee, roof height, etc. Prices are subject to change. 

The solar installation cost for homeowners has reduced further because the Indian government offers homeowners a subsidy under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. 

Let’s check out the cost of installing an on-grid rooftop solar system in India in 2025 with and without a subsidy: 

*Please note: The above-mentioned solar plate price is indicative as of 4th October 2025 for the SolarSquare Blue 6ft variant. The final cost of installing an on-grid rooftop solar panel system at home depends on your DISCOM charges, product variant opted for, panel type, inverter type, mounting structure height, type of after-sales service, savings guarantee, roof height, etc. Prices are subject to change. 

What Are the Benefits of 48V Solar Panels?

48V solar panels built with modern PERC or TOPCon half-cut cells carry lower current inside each cell path. As a result, they run cooler and waste less energy as heat. Running cooler also helps them hold more power throughout the day, as temperatures rise. They also tend to have lower temperature coefficients than many older 12V or 24V panels. Thus, they work better in hot weather.

Let’s explore all the major benefits of 48V solar panels in detail:

• They deliver higher wattage per panel: You will need fewer panels to reach the desired system size. This shortens install time and uses less roof space.
• They run lower current for the same power: Wires and connectors stay cooler and waste less energy. More of your panel power reaches the inverter.
• They hold power better on hot days: Their temperature coefficient is lower than that of many older panels. Thus, the output drops more slowly as the panels heat up.
• They handle shade better: The half-cut layout allows one side to continue producing power even when the other part is shaded.
• They are easy to source and replace: Many solar panel manufacturers offer long warranties and keep these models in stock, which makes replacements simpler.

What is the Minimum Number of Solar Panels Needed for a 48V Solar Power System?

The 48V label does not indicate the number of panels required. It only indicates the voltage class of the battery and inverter that should be used with these panels. The modules are still wired in series, so the inverter or charge controller sees the correct DC voltage, which is usually much higher than 48 volts. But the actual number of solar panels needed depends on the size of the module and the system capacity you’re trying to achieve. 

Here’s the simple formula you can use to calculate the number of 48V solar panels needed to achieve any system capacity:

Based on the formula above, let’s check out the number of 540Wp mono-PERC and 600Wp TOPCon solar panels needed to achieve different solar system capacities: 

How to Connect Solar Panels to a 48V Inverter?

When connecting solar panels to a 48V inverter, it’s imperative to turn off the PV isolator because it removes live DC from the inverter inputs, reduces the risk of a DC arc, and makes the terminals safe to handle. Before any work begins, confirm the exact inverter model and open its manual to note the PV input ratings, the PV+ and PV− terminals, and the required connection order. 

Do not attempt to connect panels to high-voltage equipment, such as the 48V inverter. That said, here are the basic steps that professionals follow to connect solar panels to a 48V solar inverter: 

• Strings are created: Panels are linked in series by joining the negative of one panel to the positive of the next. This continues until the planned count is reached. One free positive and one free negative remain as the string outputs. Identical strings are built the same way. Each string is labeled, and its open-circuit voltage and polarity are checked.
• PV strings are attached to the inverter: The two leads from each string are brought to the inverter or combiner. The positive lead lands on PV+ and the negative lead lands on PV−. Terminals are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque. If the inverter has more than one MPPT, identical strings are kept together on the same MPPT and unequal strings are placed on separate MPPT inputs.
• Earthing is completed: The panel frames and the inverter are connected to the earth wire. The ground path is tested to confirm it is safe and unbroken.

Why Install an On-Grid Rooftop Solar System in India in 2025?

On-grid rooftop solar systems are the most affordable of the three solar system types. Unlike hybrid and off-grid solar systems, which require lithium batteries that are expensive to install and replace, on-grid solar systems don’t need batteries. This makes them significantly cheaper. Moreover, they reduce reliance on grid electricity, lowering homeowners’ electricity bills by 90% or more.

Here’s why installing an on-grid rooftop solar system is beneficial for homeowners in India: 

• They make you eligible for a subsidy: Homeowners can claim a subsidy to install on-grid rooftop solar panel systems for homes. It makes them even more affordable than they already are.
• They reduce bills by 90% or more: When appropriately sized, on-grid solar systems can reduce bills by 90% or more, as they meet all the energy requirements at home. Many homeowners eventually receive zero bills.  
• They save tens of lakhs of rupees: A solar system, which can make your bills zero, will continue generating electricity for 25 years. All the money that you would have spent on paying electricity bills will now be saved. This accumulates to tens of lakhs of rupees across the system’s lifespan.

You can use SolarSquare’s free solar power calculator to estimate the cost of installing the right solar system in your city, as well as the solar savings this system will offer over its 25-year lifespan. 

To make things clearer, we’ve also created a snapshot table that provides the details of the estimated cost of installing a 5 kW solar system in India, as well as the savings it offers to homeowners over 25 years. Check for yourself and decide whether or not solar is worth your money: 

*Please note: The 5 kW solar panel price in India with subsidy mentioned above is indicative as of 4th October 2025 for the SolarSquare Blue 6ft variant. The actual solar plate price depends on your DISCOM charges, city, product variant opted for, panel type, inverter type, mounting structure height, type of after-sales service, savings guarantee, roof height, etc. Prices are subject to change. Additionally, when calculating savings, we have considered an annual tariff escalation of 3% and an annual degradation of 1%. The actual final savings from a 5 kW solar system depends on the types of solar panels you’ve installed and their efficiency, intensity of sunlight your rooftop receives, orientation of the panels and tilt angle, the pollution level and weather conditions in your city, the temperature, shadow on the roof, impact of dirt/dust, and how well you maintain your panels after installation.

Conclusion

48V solar panels, made using advanced cell technologies like PERC and TOPCon, offer higher power output since they’re available in higher wattages. They perform better in shade, have lower temperature coefficients, and run cooler as they carry less current.

While it’s easy to confuse 48V with their actual voltage, it’s the nominal voltage of these panels, which determines the battery or charge controller they’re made for. In reality, their maximum power voltage (Vmp) under STC can range between ~41-45 volts and their open-circuit voltage (Voc) can range between ~49-52 volts. 

If you’re looking to install rooftop solar at your place and have any doubts about it, you can book a free solar consultation call with SolarSquare today.

Calculate your savings

Forecast your savings with solar on your investment on the SolarSquare’s plant

Pin code *

Please enter a valid pincode.

Oh! We haven’t reached your location yet

We are not yet servicable at your location but we will soon!

City

Avg electricity bill

Min. 500 Max ₹10,000

Calculate now

FAQs

Q1. Can I use a 48V solar panel on a 12V battery?

Ans. Yes, you can, but it should not be connected to the battery directly. Use an MPPT charge controller that can take the panel’s higher voltage and charge a 12V battery safely.

Q2. How many solar panels are needed for a 48V battery?

Ans. It totally depends on your panel specifications and the MPPT limits. With modern 48V panels, one panel is not enough because their Vmp is about 41 to 45 V, but a 48V battery charges around 54 to 58V. In practice, many chargers need at least two 48V panels in series. You must also confirm that the cold-day sum of Voc remains below the controller’s maximum PV voltage and that your series count falls within the MPPT working range.

Q3. Which is better, a 12V or a 48V solar system?

Ans. For homes and businesses, 48V is better because it runs a lower current for the same power. So, losses and cable sizes drop, and scaling is easier. A 12V system is suitable for small DC setups, such as RVs and boats.