A charge controller is a key component of a power system in which battery charging is required. The charge controller, through optimal regulation, prevents the battery from overcharging. In a solar PV system, it regulates the voltage and current flowing from the solar panel to the battery and /or the load and ensures that the safety of the battery is not compromised.

The functions of charge controllers can be summarised as follows:

• Blocks reverse current from the battery
• Prevents overcharge
• Low voltage disconnect circuit to prevent over-discharging
• Automatic temperature compensation
• Overload protection to safely handle high currents
• Display and meter readings