Solar Panel Installation on Board

Would you like to become more self-sufficient and less dependent on shore power in marinas? Installing solar panels on board offers an excellent solution. Solar panels provide greater freedom, allow you to generate your own energy while moored, and increase comfort on board.

More and more boat owners are choosing a smart and more sustainable energy supply on board. Solar panels can play an important role in this. De Drait recently received an assignment from the owners of a Safari Houseboat 1050 to install solar panels in combination with new house batteries. The aim was to make more energy available on board and reduce dependence on shore power.

A Complete System Tailored to Your Boat

On this boat, De Drait installed two Victron solar panels with a capacity of 365 Wp each. The solar panels are part of a complete energy system consisting of a charge controller, battery charger and battery monitor.

For energy storage, four WattCycle house batteries with a capacity of 314 Ah each were installed. This provides the boat with ample battery capacity for operating various electrical appliances on board. The system can be monitored via an app.

Generating Energy When the Sun Is Shining

Solar panels on a boat convert sunlight into electricity, which is then used to charge the batteries on board. When you are travelling for an extended period or staying in a location with limited access to shore power, you can make use of your own generated energy.

Solar panels therefore provide greater freedom when choosing a mooring location and allow you to enjoy being on the water for longer without depending on a shore power connection.

Here are some of the key benefits:

• Energy from sunlight – Solar panels generate electricity both while cruising and when the boat is stationary.
• Charging the batteries – The electricity generated can be used to keep the onboard batteries charged.
• Less dependence on shore power – Particularly useful when staying overnight in a quiet location or in nature.
• More sustainable boating – You use less electricity supplied through an external power source.
• Greater comfort while moored – You can continue using electrical appliances and onboard systems without constantly running the engine or generator.
• Ideal for longer cruises – When travelling for several days, the panels can help maintain the energy balance on board.
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Everything Clearly Visible in an App

Another advantage of this installation is that the energy system can be easily monitored. Using an app, the boat owner has direct insight into the electrical system. It is easy to see how much energy is being generated and what the current battery status is.

This gives you, as a boat owner, greater insight into your energy consumption on board and allows you to make optimal use of the system.