Installing Solar Panels On A Boat

Our marine solar panel design choices.

Installing solar panels on a boat.

These are dc wires for a 12 volt system so you need 2 sets of wires. The solbian panels are a tremendous option for those needing light weight high output per sq in and easy stowage. However there can be obstacles to installing solar on a boat perhaps the largest of which is available space. Fitting a solar panel to your narrowboat will give you much more freedom to explore the waterways and canals.

Ideally the installation will also be adjustable allowing you to turn the panels toward the sun periodically throughout the day which can increase power generation by up to 40 percent. Small panels maintain or trickle charge batteries while you re unplugged from shore power. Installing one or more photovoltaic solar panels on your boat is a great way to keep your batteries topped off and in larger installations replace the power consumed by house loads. Depending on the type of boat you have this space may be easy or difficult to come by.

While no sailboat has the perfect spot for a solar panel to 100 eliminate shading on this boat the bimini top was still the best bet. Mount your panel on your stern rail see photos details below. Tie up to the river bank to enjoy the peace of the countryside without having to worry about keeping the fridge cool or restarting the engine. In our installation we decided to mount three 185 watt 24 volt nominal.

Sticks put your lightweight solar panel on a sturdy backing panel and. Of course if you want to put glass panels on your hard top and don t mind the weight and bulk then go for it. Adding solar power to a sailboat panel positioning and wiring considerations. Ideally your solar panels can be installed in an area with uninterrupted sunshine.

Lifelines a simple place to hang panels. Run the wires into the main cabin this usually means drilling a small hole in the cockpit. Out of the way easily moved from side to side to follow the sun and quickly removed and stowed below. Attach marine grade copper wires to the panel.