Victron Energy Basics: MPPT, MultiPlus, SmartShunt and Cerbo GX
Victron is the default choice for serious DC systems because every part reports over Bluetooth or VE.Direct and the parts work together. Here's what each one does.
SmartSolar MPPT: solar charge controller
Size the amps as panel watts ÷ battery volts × 1.1. For example, 400 W on 12 V needs ~37 A, so a 100/50. Make sure the panels' cold-weather Voc stays under the first number.
- Victron Smartsolar MPPT 75/10 Solar Charge Controller $74.27
- Victron Smartsolar MPPT 100/30 UL Approved $136.94
- Victron Smartsolar MPPT 100/50 UL Approved $196.36
MultiPlus-II: inverter/charger
It turns battery DC into 120 V AC, charges from shore power or a generator, and switches over automatically. 3000 VA on 12 V can pull ~250 A DC, so the cabling and fusing must match.
- Victron Multiplus-II 12/3000 120-50 2X 120V UL Approved $1,102.40
- Victron Multiplus-II 24/3000 70-50 120V UL Approved $1,010.25
SmartShunt: battery monitor
It counts amp-hours in and out for a true state of charge. Every lithium bank should have one.
- Victron Smartshunt 500A/50MV Bluetooth Battery Monitor $113.82
- Victron Smartshunt 500A/50MV IP65 Bluetooth Battery Monitor $125.40
Orion DC-DC: alternator charging
It protects your alternator when charging lithium and isolates the start and house banks.
Cerbo GX: the brain
Shop solar, inverter/chargers and inverters. Planning a full system? Get free system design help and we'll spec the parts list.
FAQ
What do the two numbers on a Victron MPPT mean?
For example, 100/30: 100 V is the maximum PV open-circuit voltage (cold-corrected), and 30 A is the maximum charge current into the battery.
Do I need a Cerbo GX?
Not to make power. It's the hub that ties MPPTs, inverter/chargers and shunts together for remote monitoring (VRM) and coordinated charging. It's worth it on systems with three or more Victron devices.
MultiPlus vs MultiPlus-II?
The II is the newer platform, with a wider range of models, a built-in ESS/grid-assist feature set and easier GX integration. For new builds, choose the II.