solar on a sailboat

Yachting Monthly

Digital edition

Sailing with solar power: A practical guide

Duncan Kent
November 13, 2020

The latest solar technology makes self-sufficient cruising much more achievable. Duncan Kent gives the lowdown on everything you need to get your boat sorted

SOLAR POWER ON BOARD

Solar power is fast becoming the most popular and economic method of keeping the batteries charged on a boat.

Particularly now that the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels, charge controllers and batteries is improving every day.

Furthermore, the latest technology in regulators and charge controllers has brought about a noticeable increase in useable power output, so the problems of shading and non-alignment can be compensated for more easily.

Not only has PV equipment become more efficient and cost-effective, but many of the modern devices we want to use on a boat have become less power hungry.

This means it is now far easier to provide your entire yacht’s electrical needs, both 220Vac and 12/24Vdc, from natural energy resources – particularly solar power, even if you are planning on a fully electric boat .

Thinking carefully about how much power you need and how much your boat can accommodate is key to planning a solar array. Credit: Graham Snook

WHAT DO YOU NEED?

For instance, a boat with two new, good quality, deep-cycle house batteries of 100Ah each would supply 100Ah of energy to consume between charges, if you only use the recommended 50% of available charge between each charge cycle to protect the batteries.

From this you could run:

a modern 12Vdc fridge (approx. 1.5Ah, or 36Ah over 24hrs),
all LED lighting (say 20Ah per day),
various small device chargers (20Ah)
and a number of other items such as water pumps, TVs and stereos (25Ah/day)
Totalling around 100Ah.
For this you’d need 400W of solar capacity.

Of course, if you like to run a lot of AC devices off-grid such as hair dryers, microwaves, toasters and the like, then you’re going to need a DC/ AC inverter, which will take you to another level in power consumption terms.

But even then, with careful planning, solar could provide a large portion of the power you need before resorting to engine charging or a generator.

THE AVAILABLE SPACE

In practical terms, a modern 40ft monohull would have the space for around 1,200W of PV panels (cockpit arch, sprayhood top, deck), maybe 1,500W with the addition of a few portable panels for use at anchor.

The 1,200W of fixed position solar array could produce around 360Ah on a sunny summer’s day (zero shading) or more likely 250Ah on the average UK summer’s day.

So that’s enough for your 100Ah general DC consumption plus another 150Ah of AC consumption via the inverter.

Of course, to do this you’ll most likely need to increase your battery capacity to around 400-500Ah for maximum flexibility (you’ll need to store as much as possible during daylight hours), a typical figure for a 40-50ft offshore cruising yacht these days.

Get your solar charging right and you may never need to hook up to shore power

Typical daily inverter loads for a cruising yacht off grid might be:

induction cooking plate (20min) 60Ah
microwave (15min) 30Ah
coffee maker (20mins) 25Ah
hair dryer (5min) 15Ah
laptop charger (2h) 10Ah
or around 140Ah in total.

The trick is to monitor the batteries’ state of charge (SOC) at all times and vary your use of the inverter to suit.

For example, you might want to cook supper mid-afternoon, when solar is in abundance, and then reheat it in the evening when you want to eat it.

In some cases, when you’re cruising in warm climates such as the Med, you might end up with excess charge from your solar panels .

In this situation, many long-term cruisers devise a method of ‘dumping’ the extra energy by heating water for showers.

Do bear in mind if you’re planning to live aboard full time , then it’ll be a whole different story on cloudy days and during the winter, when inverter use might need to be knocked on the head entirely.

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POWER DISCREPANCIES

There’s often confusion as to how much power you can harvest from a solar installation.

A PV panel is nearly always advertised stating its theoretical peak output power (Pw).

But in reality, on a yacht where there are limited areas in which to mount them, they will more likely produce a maximum of 60% of their peak output if mounted horizontally, increasing to 80% if tilted towards the sun and regularly adjusted.

The latter is rarely achievable on a boat, however, as even at anchor it can swing through an arc of 180° in wind or tidal shifts .

Flexible panels can be mounted on sprayhoods or awnings to add power when it’s needed at anchor or in harbour

INSTALLATION

Having trawled through hundreds of ‘deals’ to get the best price on the most efficient panels you can afford you now need to know how to install them to best fulfill your energy generation needs.

The output, even from the highest quality photo-voltaic array, will only be as good as the installation itself.

So following our guidelines should ensure you extract every last drop of energy from your investment.

PANEL MOUNTING

Sailing boats are not the ideal structure on which to mount wide, flat PV panels.

So before you go ahead and purchase what looks like the biggest and best, take a few minutes to decide on exactly where you can mount them, as this will affect what size and type of panels you should buy.

In many cases the first choice would be on an arch, davits or gantry aft, especially if you already have, or plan to fit one.

Dinghy davits, particularly on multihulls, can support a huge solar capacity

These allow a solid metal framework to be constructed that will be strong enough to take the heavier, more productive rigid PV panels.

You can also build in some form of adjuster to the framework that will allow the panels to be orientated towards the sun for the best performance.

With luck (or careful planning) a gantry will also keep them aft of the boom, thereby eliminating loss of output caused by boom shading.

The next most popular position for mounting the panels is on a cockpit sprayhood or bimini, although this will often mean using the flexible or semi-flexible panels, which are generally less efficient than the rigid ones for the same area.

ELEVATED MOUNTING

Alternatively, there are kits available for mounting panels onto lifelines, which can allow their elevation to be manually adjusted to a certain degree.

Pole-mounted panels can be used for maximum adjustability

Finally, panels can be fitted directly onto the deck by either gluing them down using mastic or attaching them onto a rigid support frame.

Once again you will probably need to use semi-flexible panels – especially if the deck surface is curved.

Rigid, glass-coated panels will obviously not be suitable for deck mounting in an area that is frequently walked over.

Don’t be tempted to drill through the panels, even along the edges, as this will invalidate the warranty and possibly damage the panel.

With solid panels, the ability to adjust the angle can add significantly to output

It might seem obvious, but the key to an efficient system is to avoid shading wherever possible.

It’s no good fitting expensive, high-efficiency PVs right under the boom as they’ll perform little better than the cheaper types.

Saying that, in good quality panels each cell will be isolated from the next by a series of diodes (one-way electrical valves), so that if one cell is shaded at least it won’t drag down the other cells within the same panel.

Older panels often didn’t have these, so the slightest partial shading caused the output of the entire panel to cease.

OVERHEATING

Another important factor that is often ignored when installing the panels is that of overheating.

If a PV panel gets too hot, which is quite likely if mounted directly onto a flat surface without an air gap behind, its output will drop quite noticeably.

To allow for some air circulation behind the panels it’s best to apply mastic adhesive in numerous large dabs.

This is best achieved by placing wooden spacer strips between the dabs until the mastic has completely cured, after which the spacers can be removed.

You might need some form of trim around one or more of the outside edges, though, if they are positioned where sheets and other lines might get caught under them.

Raising the panels up will also help water to drain off and thereby helping to avoid possible delamination from sitting in water for too long.

CHARGE CONTROL

A PV module cannot supply an electrical device directly due to the changeability of the sunlight, which in turns varies the current it can produce.

Therefore, it has to be connected to a battery, which stores and smooths its output.

Whatever the size of your solar array you will need to fit a regulator, or charge controller as they are now more commonly known, to the system in order to control the output and to help extract as much power from the panels as possible.

There are two types of PV charge controller.

The older designs, called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) types, were fairly basic voltage regulators and simply output volts at just above battery level.

The latest controllers use Multi Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology and can accept much higher input voltages (up to 240Vdc).

MPPT controllers can be up to 30% more efficient as they use the peak output of the panels to charge the batteries, even compensating for partial shading.

BEWARE FAKE GEAR

If you buy online do be careful to ensure you’re getting what you pay for.

There are a huge number of fake MPPTs out there, which are simply the much cheaper PWM dressed up with fake labels.

It’s hard to tell which is which, but the old adage of ‘if it looks too good to be true, it usually is’ makes good sense.

MPPT controllers are usually bigger and heavier than PWMs, but if in doubt call or email the supplier to discuss the pros and cons of their kit before buying.

If they’re not happy to chat and advise you then I would steer clear of their gear.

Some good MPPTs are made in China, but unless they have a UK supplier, I wouldn’t bother with them as you’ll have no follow-up advice.

To calculate what size controller you need simply divide the panel’s peak power in Watts (Wp) by the battery voltage, which will give you the maximum current (Amps) they could theoretically supply.

For example 240W/12V = 20A. Although it’s unlikely you’ll ever get near the peak output from any PV panel, it’s best to go for the maximum possible.

Induction cooking is now a reality on board, even without shore power

PV panels come with a short length of cable, usually around 1m long.

Some are supplied with MC4 connectors already attached but most only provide bare wires.

The latter can be easily extended using proper waterproof connections but thought must be given as to the current rating and voltage drop (usually max 3%) for the size of cable you intend to use.

If in doubt, bigger is better!

Panels can sometimes be ordered with the wiring on the back so that the cable can go straight below deck through a hole under the panel.

You may need to fit extra battery capacity if you want to run an inverter from solar charging

SERIES OR PARALLEL?

A commonly asked question is ‘should I wire my PV panels in series or in parallel?’

The simple answer is, if there’s any danger of frequent shading to one or more of the panels then install them in parallel.

If wired in series the shading of a single panel will drag down the output from all of the others in the same series.

PARALLEL IS PREFERRED

Most commonly, multiple panels are wired together in parallel to a single charge controller, with diodes protecting each panel from discharging the others should one become partially shaded.

With the advent of MPPT controllers, however, there can sometimes be a benefit to wiring two or more identical panels into a series bank, thereby presenting a higher voltage to the controller.

It’s worth noting that, like batteries, wiring PV panels in series increases the voltage only – the current capacity of the array remains the same as for a single panel.

‘Where’s the benefit of wiring them in series then?’ you might ask.

Well, the higher the voltage fed into the MPPT, the more consistent it will be with its output, which could, in some cases, prove more efficient than a parallel installation with PWM controllers.

It’s also likely to be necessary if you have a 24V domestic system.

SERIES WIRING

Series wiring is usually only done when the cable runs are long, as it helps negate the voltage drop caused by the resistance of the cable.

While a decent controller will have no problem handling the output from four or even five panels wired in series, it is often inappropriate for sailing yachts as shading just one of the panels will reduce the output of the entire series array.

If you need to do so in order to reduce cable runs then it’s best to split the panels between each side of the boat – a series bank on each side.

If you do this, then you would ideally fit a separate controller to each series PV bank and then connect their outputs together in parallel to the battery bank.

Note, however, that panels wired in series must all be the same types with an equal number of cells per panel.

Furthermore, the charge controller needs to be sized for the total of all panel voltages added together and the current rating of one individual panel.

Differently rated panels can be connected together in parallel but only if each panel has its own controller.

The outputs of the individual controllers can then be joined together to go to the battery bank.

BATTERY BANK QUESTION

Another frequently asked question is ‘Can I connect another charging source to the battery bank while the solar array is charging?’

The answer is yes.

Any decent PV controller will be protected against feedback from other charging sources.

Think carefully about where shade from mast, boom and rigging will fall. Credit: Graham Snook Photography

CABLE SIZE AND CONNECTORS

A frequent cause of reduced output from PV arrays is wiring that is too small.

The resistance of a wire conductor increases in direct proportion to its cross-sectional area, so go as big as is practicable for the least cable loss.

Each panel should be supplied with the correctly sized cables for its own maximum output.

But if you’re combining panels, either in parallel or in series, you will clearly need to rate the single feed cable to suit the maximum current available at theoretical peak solar output and to minimise voltage drop.

Likewise, the cable from the controller to the batteries should be sized to suit the controller’s maximum output current and protected with a fuse.

For outside it’s important to use exterior grade cable, which is double- insulated and UV-proof.

WEATHERPROOF CONNECTORS

And wherever possible use compatible weatherproof connectors (usually MC4) to those found on the panels rather than cutting off the plugs and hard-wiring them.

Field- assembly MC4 plugs are available, so you don’t have to drill large holes in the decks or bulkheads when feeding the cables through.

When joining more than one panel together try to use the approved multiway connectors; not only do they keep the wiring neat and tidy, but they also offer a greater contact area than budget terminal blocks.

If you have to use screw-type connectors make sure to fit proper ferrules to the wire first to avoid any stray wires in the multistrand shorting across the terminals.

When feeding a cable from above to below deck, try to go through an upright bulkhead where possible to minimise ‘pooling’ of water around the access hole.

Also, use a proper watertight deck seal that matches the cable you’re using.

If drilling through a cored deck you need to drill a larger hole first, fill it with epoxy resin and then drill the required size hole through the epoxy to ensure no water gets into the deck core.

Ideally, the charge controller should be mounted no further than 2m from the battery bank.

If you need to go further, you’ll require larger cabling to reduce the voltage drop.

A generous solar array will keep you self- sufficient indefinitely. Credit: Graham Snook Photography

CONTROLLER LOAD TERMINALS

There is often confusion over the ‘load’ output of a charge controller (often depicted by a light bulb) and what can safely be connected to these terminals.

Rarely explained in the manual, the load terminals should be pretty much ignored in a marine installation as the output on these terminals is usually very limited (10A max).

Some attach an LED light to them to indicate the controller is operating, but all your usual electrical loads should remain connected to the batteries with the battery terminals on the controller connected directly to that battery bank via a fuse.

It is possible, though, to control a high-current switching relay in certain conditions.

Parallel installation is more resilient to shading, but a series installation will increase peak charging outputs. A combination of the two offers some of the benefit of both

CIRCUIT MONITORING

Unlike most cheap PWMs, the majority of good quality MPPT charge controllers come with an alphanumeric LCD screen to let you know what is going on.

This can either be a remote display or simply one on the front of the box.

It’s obviously a lot better to have a proper numerical display than to rely on a few flashing LEDs to tell you when something’s not right.

So if your chosen controller doesn’t have one be sure to fit a battery monitor (the shunt type) into your solar circuit between the controller and the batteries.

It doesn’t have to be a very ‘smart’ monitor, just one that can display the voltage and current being supplied by the panels.

For smartphone addicts there are several wifi apps that will do the job remotely on your phone or tablet.

DEVICE PROTECTION

All good quality PV panels feature built-in diode protection between each cell to prevent a shaded cell from dragging down the productive ones.

In addition, there will be internal blocking diodes on the final output to protect the panel from polarity reversal and to ensure that the batteries can’t discharge back into the panel during the night.

The latter can be added externally, the former can’t, so check before you buy.

A fuse, rated just above the maximum current available, should be fitted between each panel and the charge controller.

Another fuse should then be installed between the charge controller’s output and the batteries.

In the case of multiple arrays, this second fuse will be rated higher than the individual panel fuses and should match the maximum current rating of the cable.

With this protection installed other charging devices can be connected in parallel at the battery, meaning the solar can be left connected even when you are hooked up to shore power and the battery charger is operating.

In some circumstances, however, this arrangement can affect the sensing of the battery by the charger, causing it to fall back into float mode.

If this becomes apparent it can be overcome by installing a manual/auto switch to disconnect the solar array when on shore power.

Check the flex of the solar panel is sufficient for your deck

EXCESS POWER DUMPING

A solar charge controller works by disconnecting the supply from the PV panels when the batteries are fully charged.

But for some full-time liveaboards in sunny climates that can be considered a waste, when the excess power could be put to good use – heating water, say.

This is commonly done using an inverter to supply AC power to the heating element.

Alternatively, you can now buy a 12Vdc element for your calorifier (hot water tank) and supply this directly from your battery bank.

Both of these methods would require a voltage sensitive relay (VSR) to disconnect the element should the battery voltage drop below a pre-set level.

Don’t expect boiling hot water, as there will probably only be enough spare power to take the chill off it before your battery bank reaches its lower threshold voltage.

A 600W/12V element will draw some 50A, from the batteries, whereas a 1kW AC element run through an inverter will need close to 100A.

A small, semi-flexible panel will be sufficient for keeping batteries trickle charged, but not for heavy use

RIGID, FLEXIBLE, OR SEMI FLEXIBLE?

Despite massive recent improvements in semi-flexible panels in recent years, the solid glass panels still offer a higher power density.

That said, they are heavier, more awkward to mount and can’t be walked on, so unless you have a dedicated gantry aft, you’re better off choosing the more rugged semi-flexibles.

Modules incorporating monocrystalline cells also have a better output than those with polycrystalline cells (that’s cells made from a single slice of silicon as opposed to layers of smaller pieces).

Output voltage also depends on the number of cells on the panel.

In the past this has commonly been 32, but now some 36 and even 40 cell panels are available.

That said, they’re larger, of course, so an array of interconnected smaller panels might be a better solution.

Module efficiency is now more often around the 20% mark, as opposed to 12-15% for older models and semi- flexible (up to 20° bend) are usually better than flexible (up to 180° bend).

A rigid panel is more efficient, but less robust

There are a huge number of panels on the market, but many use the same cells.

Sunpower Maxeon cells are exceptionally good, as are the Panasonic HIT range and LG, but they are pricey.

If the maker is offering a 25-year guarantee instead of a 3-5 year one, you can be pretty confident they’re good.

When it comes to charge controllers it’s definitely worth paying a little more for a decent MPPT.

A cheap PWM might be okay just to keep a small starter battery charged with a 30W panel, but the MPPT will give you much more when it comes to heavy service.

Victron are probably top of the range, while cheaper brands like MakeSkyBlue and EPever are also good value – but treat imports of unclear origin with care.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Duncan Kent has been evaluating and reviewing yachts and marine equipment for the past 30 years

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Adding Solar Power to a Sailboat

By Emily Fagan
Updated: October 18, 2019

During our nearly four-year cruise of Mexico, my husband, Mark, and I lived almost exclusively on 555 watts of solar power charging a 640-amp-hour house battery bank. We anchored out virtually every night aboard our 2008 Hunter 44DS, Groovy , and relied on the sun for power. During one 10-week stretch, while we waited for a replacement engine alternator to arrive, our boat’s solar panels were our sole source of power. We had no backup charging system to turn to, and yet we lived and sailed comfortably the entire time. Mounting solar panels on a sailboat was not difficult, but a few key decisions made a huge difference in how effective our panels were.

A solar-power installation on a sailboat is made up of two independent systems: one system to charge the batteries, and another system to provide 120-volt AC power for household appliances. In the charging system, the solar panels convert sunlight into electrical current and deliver it to the batteries via a solar charge controller. Similar to a voltage regulator, the charge controller acts as a gatekeeper to protect the batteries from receiving more current than they need as they are being charged. In the AC power system, an inverter or inverter/charger converts the 12-volt DC power in the battery into 120 volts AC whenever it is turned on.

Panel Positioning and Wiring Considerations

One of the biggest challenges for sailors installing solar power on a sailboat is finding a place on the boat where the panels will be shaded as little as possible. Just a few square inches of shade on one panel can render that panel all but inoperable. Unfortunately, between the mast, radome, spreaders and boom, shadows cross the deck all day long, especially as the boat swings back and forth at anchor.

What’s worse, if the panels are wired in series rather than in parallel, this little bit of shade can shut down the entire solar-panel array. When we installed solar power on Groovy , we had already lived exclusively on solar power in an RV for over two years. Our RV solar panels had been wired in series, and we had witnessed the array shutting down current production when just half of one panel was shaded.

Choosing whether to wire the panels in series or parallel on a boat affects the wire gauge required, which is why many solar-power installers lean toward wiring the panels in series. Panels wired in series can be wired all the way to the solar charge controller with a thinner-gauge wire than those wired in parallel. This is because the voltage of panels wired in series is additive, while the current remains constant, so the current flowing is just that of a single panel. In contrast, the current flowing from panels that are wired in parallel is additive, while the voltage across them is not. This means that in a parallel installation, the current going to the charge controller is several times higher and requires much thicker cable to avoid any voltage loss over the length of the wire.

Not only is thinner-gauge wire less expensive, but it is also more supple and easier to work with, making the job of snaking it in and around various crevices in the boat and connecting it to the solar charge controller much less of a struggle. Thus the choice between series and parallel wiring boils down to a trade-off between system performance, expense and ease of solar system installation.

Luckily, the size of the wire can be reduced if higher-voltage solar panels are chosen. Since watts are determined by multiplying volts by amps, a higher-voltage panel that generates the same watts as a lower-voltage panel will produce less current. Therefore, selecting nominal 24-volt panels instead of 12-volt panels allows for the use of thinner wire sizes no matter how they are wired.

Our Marine Solar Panel Design Choices

In our installation, we decided to mount three 185-watt, 24-volt (nominal) Kyocera solar panels high above the cockpit, well aft of the boom, as far away as possible from potential shade. Our Hunter came with a big, solid stainless-steel arch, and we turned to Alejandro Ulloa, a brilliant metal fabricator at Baja Naval Boatyard in Ensenada, Mexico, to build a polished stainless-steel solar-panel arch extension onto the existing structure. He designed the arch extension with integrated telescoping davits to hoist our dinghy as well as support the solar panels. These davits were strong enough — and the lines and blocks had enough purchase — that either of us could lift our light Porta-Bote dinghy with its 6-horsepower outboard without a winch.

We spaced the panels about a half-inch apart and wired them in parallel. Using two twin-lead wires, we snaked the three positive leads and one common ground down through the inside of the arch tubes so they wouldn’t be visible, and placed wire loom over the exposed wires under the panels.

The junction points for the three parallel panels were on positive and negative bus bars inside a combiner box, all mounted in a cockpit lazarette. Inside the combiner box, we installed three breakers, one for each panel. This gave us the ability to shut off any or all of the panels if we needed to (we never did).

We mounted a Xantrex solar charge controller (model XW MPPT 60-150) in a hanging locker, as close to the batteries as possible, in a spot where it was easy to monitor and program. We ran twin-lead wire from the combiner box to the charge controller and from there to the batteries.

Our boat came with three new 12-volt Mastervolt 4D AGM house batteries, all wired in parallel, for a total of 480 amp-hours of capacity. We wanted a bigger house battery bank, and because it is best for the age, type and size of the batteries to be matched, we added a fourth new Mastervolt 4D AGM house battery, which brought our total to 640 amp-hours. Our batteries were installed at the lowest point in the hull, below the floorboards, and they ran the length of the saloon, from just forward of the companionway stairs to just aft of the V-berth stateroom door.

The best way to charge a bank of batteries that are wired in parallel is to span the entire battery bank with the leads coming from the charge controller. We did this by connecting the positive lead from the charge controller to the positive terminal of the first battery in the bank, and the negative lead from the charge controller to the negative terminal of the last battery. By spanning the entire bank, the batteries were charged equally rather than having the charging current focused on just the first battery in the bank.

We feel that AGM batteries are superior to wet cell (flooded) batteries because they can be installed in any orientation, don’t require maintenance, can’t spill (even in a capsize), and charge more quickly. Our Mastervolt batteries, like almost all AGM batteries on the market, are dual-purpose, combining the very different characteristics of both deep-cycle and start batteries. Our batteries work well, but if we were doing an installation from scratch today, we would consider the new Trojan Reliant AGM batteries. These batteries are engineered strictly for deep-cycle use and have been optimized to provide consistent current and maximize battery life.

Our boat came with a Xantrex Freedom 2,500-watt inverter/charger wired into the boat’s AC wiring system with a transfer switch. The inverter/charger performed two functions. While the boat was disconnected from shore power, it converted the batteries’ 12-volt DC power into 120-volt AC power, allowing us to operate 120-volt appliances, like our microwave. When the boat was connected to shore power, it charged the batteries.

Because this inverter/charger was a modified-sine-wave inverter, mimicking AC current with a stair-stepped square wave, we also had a 600-watt pure-sine-wave inverter to power our potentially more sensitive electronic devices. We chose Exeltech because its inverters produce an electrical signal that is clean enough to power medical equipment, and they are NASA’s choice for both the Russian and American sides of the International Space Station. For simplicity, rather than wiring the inverter into the cabin’s AC wiring, we plugged ordinary household power strips into the AC outlets on the inverter and plugged our appliances into the power strips. Like the charge controller, the inverter must be located as close to the batteries as possible. Ours was under a settee.

Shade’s Impact on Sailboat Solar Panels

Once our solar installation was completed on our sailboat, we closely observed the effects of shade on our solar-panel array. We were often anchored in an orientation that put the panels in full sun. Just as often, however, we were angled in such a way that shade from the mast and boom covered portions of our panels. It was fascinating to monitor the solar charge controller’s LCD display whenever the sun was forward of the beam — the current from the panels to the batteries fluctuated up and down as we swung at anchor.

Taking notes one morning, we noticed that the charging current was repeatedly creeping up and down between 9.5 and 24.5 amps as the boat moved to and fro. When the entire solar-panel array was in full sun, it generated 24.5 amps of current. When we moved so the mast shaded a portion of one panel, the array generated 15 amps. When it shaded portions of two panels and only one was in full sun, the array produced just 9.5 amps. Of course, it would have been preferable to see a steady 24.5 amps all morning, but this sure beat watching the current drop to zero whenever a shadow crossed a panel.

We discovered that shade makes a huge impact while sailing, too. Surprisingly, it is far worse to have the panels shaded by the sails than to have the panels in full sun but tilted away from its direct rays. One afternoon, we noticed that while we were on a tack that tilted the panels away from the sun, they generated 24.5 amps of current, whereas on a tack where the panels were tilted toward the sun but two of the three were partially shaded by the sails, the current dropped to a mere 10 amps.

Reflections On Our Solar Panel Installation

A wonderful and surprising side benefit of our large solar panels and arch system was that the setup created fabulous shade over the jumpseats at the stern end of the cockpit. Our metal fabricator, Alejandro, placed a support strut at hand-holding height, and sitting in those seats feels secure and comfortable while sailing, no matter the conditions.

After living on solar power for eight years of cruising and land-yacht travel, we’ve learned that you can never have too much solar power. Groovy’s 555 watts was enough to run all our household appliances as needed, including our nearly 4-cubic-foot DC refrigerator, two laptops, a TV/DVD player, and lights at night. However, it was not quite enough power to run all that plus our stand-alone 2.5-cubic-foot DC freezer during the short days and low sun angles of the winter months without supplemental charging from the engine alternator every few days. For the 10 weeks that we did not have a functioning alternator, our solution was to turn off the freezer, which enabled our batteries to reach full charge every afternoon.

Solar power made a world of difference in our cruise. Not only did it allow us to live comfortably and with ample electricity for weeks on end when our engine alternator went on the blink, but as a “set-it-and-forget-it” system, it also gave us the freedom to anchor out for as long as we wished without worrying about the batteries. In our eyes, the solar-panel arch enhanced the beauty and lines of our boat, giving her a sleek and clean appearance. It was true icing on the cake to discover that the panels and arch system also provided much-needed shade over the cockpit and helm from the hot tropical sunshine. If you are preparing for a cruise, consider turning to the sun for electricity and outfitting your sailboat with solar power.

The Installation:

Emily and Mark Fagan offer cruising tips and share their stories and photos on their website, roadslesstraveled.us . They are currently enjoying a land cruise across America aboard an RV.

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Sailboat Solar Systems and How-To

Sunshine on a Sailboat - Solar Energy Solar Panels

Solar on a sailboat goes together like hands and gloves, but sailboat solar systems can be installed in a variety of ways. The solar components themselves create an infinite combination of possibilities for off-grid sailing. Victron Energy chargers, Renogy Panels, Sunpower Yachts, BlueSea Systems, and many more brands have entered the marketplace, and that’s not including the lithium battery companies.

To simplify things, we’ve compiled three sailboat solar systems videos to give you an overview of what’s possible. And to help you decide on your own simple solar panel setup for sailing.

How-To Install Solar Panels on Your Sailboat

This system from Zingaro shows flexible panels summing 300w of power on a 38′ catamaran.

300W Solar System:

Three 100w solar flexible panels
1 MPPT Solar charger controller

View on Amazon >>

100W HQST Flexible Solar Panels $100-$200

20amp Solar Charge Controller by Victron Energy $150-$200

Simple Sunpower Solar System

This simple solar system from The Fosters shows a quick and easy setup with limited space on top of a bimini.

Sunpower Solar Panels are considered by most in the industry as the gold standard. They use the highest-efficiency solar cells and have top-notch build quality. In this simple installation, three 50w panels are just enough to get you started. Plus, it’s the most affordable installation!

150w Starter Solar System

Three 50w Flexible Solar Panels
A Single 15amp solar charge controller

50W Sunpower Solar Panels $150-$200

75v/15amp Solar Charge Controller by Victron Energy $100-$124

Victron Energy Smart Solar Charge Controller

Off-Grid on a DIY Solar Powered Sailboat

Here’s a special installation that turned a derelict sailboat into an off-grid sailing machine!

Simon has transformed this derelict sailboat into an epic off-grid solar-powered and fossil-fuel-free cruising catamaran. He’s been living aboard and renovating the boat for the past 3.5 years We’re excited to show you the transformation as well as how he plans to propel the boat without the use of diesel or fossil fuels!

5280w Solar System for Electric Powered Catamaran

16 Rigid solar panels (330w each)
20kwh of Lithium Batteries

240W Rigid Solar Panels $250-$300

200AH Lithium 4d Battery $1200-$1200

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9 Best Solar Panels for Sailboats

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site.

Solar panels have become game changers when it comes to supplying power while off the grid. Marine solar panels can charge anything from batteries to computers to bigger electronic appliances. What are the best solar panels for sailboats?

The 9 best solar panels for sailboats are:

Renogy Flexible Solar Panel
Newpowa Solar Panel
SunPower Flexible Sol ar Panel
Eco-Worthy Off-Grid Solar Panel
Rich Solar Polycrystalline
Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel
HQST Monocrystalline Solar Panel
WindyNation Solar Panel Complete Off-Grid
DOKIO Solar Panel Kit

This article will explore everything you need to know about the best marine solar panels.

Table of Contents

Solar Panels on Sailboats: An Overview

Before exploring the best solar panels, it is helpful to consider how solar panels on sailboats work and how many you need. Solar panels sit on different parts of a sailboat’s surface and absorb the sun’s rays, converting them into energy. This energy is used to power chargers, fridges, cooking stoves, and other electronics you need for self-sufficient sailing.

Worth noting is that today we will only discuss solar panels and not the batteries, which of course is an essential part of a complete system; we will also not discuss charges or charge controllers.

The products in this post will get you started in the right direction, but if you’re looking for a high-output system, then I suggest you contact someone that can help you calculate your energy requirements.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need for My Sailboat?

You will need between 2-8 solar panels for your sailboat. The exact amount depends on your sailboat’s space and how many electronics you need to power. Most solar panels can absorb between 100-300 watts per hour. On average, you will need approximately 1500 watts of power each day.

If your solar panels absorb 1500 watts daily, here’s what they can power on your sailboat:

A laptop charger
A microwave
A coffee maker
An induction cooker

If you want to power more heavy-duty electronics like a washing machine or a television, look for solar panels that absorb 400 watts. For heavy-duty electronics, try installing 5-8 solar panels.

Flexible vs. Rigid Solar Panels

The three main types of solar panels are rigid panels, flexible panels, and semi-flexible panels.

Rigid panels are surrounded by aluminum and made with sturdy tempered glass. They are resilient against various weather conditions but require flat space to install.

Semi-flexible panels can be slightly bent to fit the shape of the installation surface. However, they can’t absorb a lot of power.

One very common type of solar panel used on boats is the flexible panel . Flexible panels are thin and lightweight, and, as their name suggests, they can be added to a wide variety of surfaces.

Here are the pros of flexible panels:

They are thin and light. Flexible panels are approximately one-eighth the weight and size of rigid and semi-flexible panels. This allows you to add them to various sailboat sizes and surfaces. It also reduces the load on your sailboat.
They are easy to install. Flexible panels are easy to work with and can be self-installed by following the instructions that come with the panels. Meanwhile, rigid and semi-flexible panels may require expert installations.
They’re sturdy. Despite being light, flexible panels can bear a lot of pressure – you can easily walk over them.

However, there are also some drawbacks to using flexible solar panels:

May fly away . As flexible panels are fragile, they can easily be dislodged and fly away, especially in strong winds.
Vulnerable to scratches . While flexible panels can bear much weight, they may get scratched more easily. Over time this may affect their functionality.
Not easy to reposition. Flexible panels are generally adhered to the surface of a sailboat using a specially prepared adhesive. Because of this, it is challenging to reposition the solar panels when there is a change of season.
Less efficient. Flexible solar panels don’t convert energy to electricity or rigid panels. It may be harder to power heavy-duty appliances from a flexible solar panel.

How Many Panels Can I Fit on a Sailboat (Catamaran and Monohull)?

The amount of panels you can fit on your sailboat depends on the size of the panels and the surface space you have available.

You can fit at least two 400W panels on a Monohull and at least four on a Catamaran around 35ft in length. You will be able to fit 4-8 more solar panels if you add a solar panel bracket at the stern.

Renogy Flexible Solar Panel 100W

Renogy is a popular solar panel producer that designs high-quality solar panels. The Renogy Flexible Solar Panel is specially designed for marine vehicles, including sailboats.

Here are the best features of this solar panel:

Flexibility . These solar panels are fragile, making them flexible and easy to mount on served surfaces.
Easy to install. These are made with high-quality Monocrystalline, allowing them to be easily bent and easy to install.
Lightweight. One solar panel weighs only 4 pounds, ensuring that no extra pressure or weight is displaced on your boat.
Durability . User reviews have noted that these panels are highly durable and can last you a few years.
Users have noted that these panels do not have the best outputs. They also can’t be stacked, which impacts their accessibility. To ensure that these panels can be connected, you may purchase extra extension cords.

Newpowa Rigid 160W Solar Panel

The Newpowa Right Solar Panel is a new design with a maximum power of 160W. It is weather-resistant and can be used on various surfaces and vehicles.

Here are the pros of the Newpowa Solar Panel:

Weatherproof . The design features of this solar panel ensure that it survives under a range of different weather conditions. It has a heavy-duty frame preventing it from strong wind and waves. Its mainframe has a further layer of protection for the Junction box.
Long warranty . Newpowa offers a 25-year transferrable output power warranty.
Easy to install . These solar panels are made with mono cells and bypass diodes. Consequently, the solar panels can be immediately unpacked and are ready to install.
High wattage. As these solar panels have 160 Watts of power, you need less of them to power all the devices on your boat.
If you are planning on buying the Newpowa Solar Panel, you should note that they only make rigid panels. As a result, you may find it to be difficult to install them on curved spaces.

SunPower 110W Flexible Solar Panel

SunPower’s Flexible Solar Panels are made with high-quality materials ensuring durability. They are especially ideal for sailboats as their warranty also covers saltwater damage.

Here are the standout features of the SunPower 110W Flexible Solar Panel:

Flexibility . This solar panel can be bent up to 30 degrees, making it easy to install on various surfaces.
Easily portable. These solar panels are incredibly lightweight (4.4 pounds or 2 kilograms) and can be easily uninstalled and transported.
Extended warranty . SunPower offers a five-year warranty on power and a two-year warranty on the product. The warranty includes damage caused by saltwater which many other solar panel warranties do not.
Some users have noted that the output quality of these solar panels deteriorates over time. However, you can use the extended warranty to address any quality deterioration.

ECO-WORTHY Rigid 25W Off-Grid Solar Panel

This is a rigid, 25-watt solar panel that is waterproof, making it ideal for your boat. It is highly durable and has inbuilt indicators that highlight the battery’s status. Its low output makes it only suitable for charging phones or smaller electronics.

Here are some notable features of the Eco-Worthy Solar Panel:

Ease of use. This solar panel is easy to install and requires no maintenance.
Warranty. Eco-Worthy offers one year of warranty on all of its products and free maintenance if needed.
USB control. This solar panel is attached to a USB control panel, preventing it from overcharging and getting damaged.
Waterproof. All solar panel parts are entirely waterproof and can handle exposure to both saltwater and freshwater.

Some of the drawbacks to this solar panel include:

Low watt absorption. Unlike many of the other solar panels on this list, this one can only absorb up to 25 watts of power at a time. So, it can only power smaller devices like batteries.
Instruction manual. Some users have noted that the instructions to set up the Eco-worth solar panel are confusing for beginners. If you have never installed solar panels before, it’s best to call in an expert to help.

RICH SOLAR 100W Rigid 12V Polycrystalline

This 100W rigid solar panel is designed to absorb energy even in low light conditions. It is easy to install and ideal for marine environments.

Here’s why you should consider buying Rich Solar Panels:

Works well in low light. This solar panel has been tested in various low light conditions, including cloudiness and during sunrise and sunset. It is certified to be able to harvest energy in low light conditions.
Extended warranty. Rich Solar Panels offers a 25-year warranty on limited power output and a five-year warranty on quality.
Water and weatherproof . The Rich Solar panels have used selective design elements to ensure they are water-resistant. They have high transparency and are made with tempered glass to withstand high winds and water pressure.
Cost-effective . These are significantly cost-effective, making it easy to equip your sailboat fully.
While solar panels can easily resist strong winds and water, they can be vulnerable to hail. Hail storms can cause dents on the solar panels, which can eventually cause damage.

Topsolar Flexible 100W Solar Panel

Topsolar provides premium flexible solar panels that are easy to move and install. They are ideal for installing on water vessels like sailboats with waterproof materials.

Here are some of the pros of choosing the Topsolar Flexible Solar Panel:

Flexibility . The arc radius of this solar panel is 16 inches (40 centimeters) and can be bent to fit several curved surfaces allowing your solar panel to harvest the most sun.
Efficiency . These solar panels are made with ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) materials. They are extremely energy efficient and can rapidly convert energy.
Some users have noted that these solar panels don’t have as long a life as other panels. In addition, some panels may only be able to absorb up to 75 watts of power at a time.

HQST Rigid 100w Monocrystalline Solar Panel

This is a 100-watt solar panel that has been specially designed to perform well in low light. It is made with high-quality materials and is ideal for sailing boats as it is durable even in unfavorable weather conditions.

Here are the pros of installing the HQST Solar Panel:

Durability . These solar panels are designed to withstand strong winds and snowfall. They’re made with tempered glass and aluminum and are resistant to corrosion, ensuring longevity.
Testing and warranty. Each solar panel is quality tested before it is distributed. It also comes with a three-year warranty.
Easy to install . While these are rigid solar panels, they have pre-drilled holes, making them easier to install.

WindyNation 100W Solar Panel Complete Off-Grid

As its name suggests, this solar panel is designed for off-the-grid living and is helpful if you need to access power when you’re in the middle of the sea.

Here is why you should consider the WindyNation Solar Panel:

Includes a charge controller. This controller lets you quickly see the amount of power the solar panel has absorbed.
High power. Several positive user reviews have indicated that this solar panel is highly efficient in absorbing and converting power.
This solar panel is more expensive than many others on the market.

DOKIO 300W 18V Portable Solar Panel Kit

If you are looking for a heavy-duty solar panel, the Dokio Solar Panel Kit is excellent. It can absorb a lot of energy and power a wide range of appliances on your sailboat.

Here’s why you should consider this solar panel:

Versatile and flexible. While this is a rigid solar panel, it can be folded, making it easy to transport and install.
High efficiency. This solar panel is highly efficient at converting energy into power. As it absorbs up to 300 watts, you can install just two of these panels to get significant energy.
Some users have noted that this solar panel does not work well in low-light conditions. You may want to have a backup solar panel for days when it’s rainy and windy.

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books: For getting started, I really like Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication: Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations, check out this resource that I made for you!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

Are solar panels on sailboats necessary?

Whether or not you should be installing solar panels on your boat is a matter of choice, not out of necessity. Sailboats get their power from the wind, by harnassing it in their sail. So if you plan to be sailing for the afternoon you probably don’t need solar panels.

You could charge a battery pack from the marina and that will probably see you through several trips. The problems only really start to arise if you are planning to be on your sailboat for longer periods, or even permanently. If you plan to live on your sailboat year-round, even if you spend 80% of it in a marina, you would be better off with some solar panels. Even if it is just as a backup source of power.

Are solar panels on boats safe?

Solar panels are generally pretty safe. They have no moving parts and typically have a very strong protective cover over them so you never come in contact with the electrics themself. So, as a source of power, they are generally pretty safe. The only time they may become unsafe is if they are badly damaged.

Solar panels are often covered by glass plating that keeps them safe. It also helps them absorb sunlight and warmth. This is great, except when the glass breaks. If the glass protective cover on your solar panels should crack and splinter you are at risk of serious injury from sharp shards of glass. Not only is the glass itself dangerous at this point, so are the electronic components inside. They have powerful currents running through them, and if you come in contact with them you may be in for a shock.

Furthermore, if these electronics get wet they can become deadly. Electricity and water do not mix well at all. Being as you are on a sailboat, at sea, the chances of them getting wet is very high. Luckily, the chances of them breaking in the first place are slim to none. The only real way they would break, besides vandalism, is by debris hitting them during a bad storm. There is not often debris at sea, so this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

What are the benefits of having solar panels on a sailboat?

There are so many great benefits of having solar panels on a sailboat. They can be a lifesaver if you find yourself at sea for a long time. There benefits range from trivial comforts to being the difference between life and death. Here are some of the benefits you might not have considered about having solar panels installed on your sailboat.

Money-saving

Solar panels are not cheap, it is far cheaper to just run a generator or charge your batteries from the marina the whole time. At least, it is in the short term. Over time, it can start to become very expensive. With solar panels, you are looking at a big initial cost (the solar panels themself) and then it’s smooth sailing. You don’t need to pay for power again. Solar panels last for about 40 years before they start to become too inefficient at producing power. The cost of a few solar panels upfront compared to 40 years of marina fees and gasoline for a generator is the financially savvy move.

Emergency power

If you find yourself at sea, the wind dies down (or becomes too strong), and you find yourself stuck bobbing around waiting for more favorable conditions you may run into trouble. Depending on how long you are out there, you may find yourself with dead electronics. Be it a satellite phone, radio, or secondary engine (depending on the boat). Having a set of solar panels and a power bank can be a genuine lifesaver in these situations.

Comfort amenities

Whether you are day sailing or making a week-long voyage, having access to the comforts in life can make the whole journey so much more enjoyable. The amenities may not be available to you without having a constant source of power at sea. Having access to a kettle, tv, videogame system, radio or microwave oven may be the only thing keeping you going at rougher times. As exciting as sailing can be, when you aren’t sailing and are just bobbing around it can be quite dull. The sea is beautiful, but there is only so much time you can spend looking at the water before you miss the comforts of land. With solar panels, you can bring those comforts with you.

Eco-friendly

There are only two alternatives to solar panels. A gasoline generator, and taking power from the grid. Neither of these is good for the environment. Luckily, solar panels are a great third option. Solar panels are completely eco-friendly and are great for the environment. This is not just great for the earth, and your conscience, but for the journey itself. If you are running a gasoline generator at sea you are going to be listening to it thrumming away and smell the burning gasoline. Wouldnt you prefer silence and nothing but the smell of the sea breeze?

How much do solar panels cost?

How much solar panels cost is almost entirely tied into both their voltage/wattage and whether or not they are portable panels. Portable solar panels are great for people who don’t spend a lot of time on their boat or are happy enough living off the marina’s power grid. Permanent solar panels, the kind that may need to professionally installed, can end up costing far more. They are also likely to be far superior and you can pretty much forget about them once they are installed.

Portable solar panels will cost just a few hundred dollars each. You will need a few to be sustainable, but that’s not going to be much of a problem. These portable solar panels can just be rolled out on the deck of your boat, weighed down, and then hooked up to a battery pack. The battery itself here is going to be the most expensive part of the whole set up. A decent-sized battery could set you back a $1000. But, when charged fully it will last days. Even with constant use.

Permanently installed solar panels can cost one or two thousand dollars in some cases. The advantage here though is once they are installed that’s it, you can forget about them. You don’t have to put them up, take them down, and find somewhere to stow them every time they need using. They too will need to be hooked up to a battery, the battery is still only going to cost you $1000. If you are installing permanent solar panels because you plan to be making long voyages, it is ideal to have two or perhaps even three large batteries hooked up to your boat. One to run off, one or two for emergencies.

How do I maintain my solar panels?

Solar panels, unlike gasoline generators, are generally pretty easy to maintain. They have no moving parts and are thus pretty self-sufficient. They don’t need taking apart and they last as long as 40 years. That being said, if they do break they need repairing as soon as possible. The exposed electrics can be deadly when water is thrown into the mix. Which, on a boat, is almost always. The glass cover will need replacing and the electronics inside may need repairing, though not always. Don’t ever attempt to do this yourself unless you are experienced at making these repairs. The cost of hiring someone to do it for you is preferable to being dead. Solar panels have very powerful electric currents, that when in contact with water and yourself can be fatal. As mentioned above, these panels rarely break so you will likely not ever run into this problem. If you do, hire a contractor.

Do my solar panels need cleaning?

Solar panels work by converting the light and heat of the sun into useable power. The process itself is rather complicated but the results are simple to understand. That being said, there are some reasons that your solar panels will stop working as effectively. They all revolve around a lack of sunlight. It could be because it is night time. It could be because it is very cloudy. Or, it could be because they are dirty. If solar panels become too dusty, dirty, and become too covered in grime they stop operating at maximum efficiency. This is not as much of a problem at sea, the sea spray stops dust settling. The biggest thing you will need to clean off your solar panels is salt build-up and slime. This is easy enough to do with some warm soapy water. Freshwater, not seawater. You want to be removing as much salt as possible. Salt is corrosive to electronics, so removing it is important. Never clean your solar panels using pressure washers as they can crack the glass.

Which are the best solar panels for sailing?

There are so many options on the market at various price points. Here are three very different options that will all make good choices, depending on your needs. It is important to consider not just price but power output. Spending a lot of money on solar panels now might not feel ideal, but it is the most cost-effective decision.

1. Renogy Starter Kit

This starter kit is going to be perfect for installing on almost any sized boat. There are four solar panels, each can be fitted permanently to the boat. They can be mounted (and unmounted) easily, for your convenience. They do require a flat surface, but they are small enough that that likely won’t be too much of a problem. This starter kit is very middle of the pack price-wise but should provide enough power for a small to medium-sized vessel easily. It is also possible to buy extra panels individually should you need them.

Wattage: 400/4 (100 per panel)

2. Nature Power Rigid

The nature power rigid is a large, powerful, single solar panel. If you are looking for the right panels to power your entire boat comfortably, these are the ones for you. They are very large so they will need a large flat surface area. alternatively, they can be hung vertically from rails. This is an inefficient way of using them, so you would need to buy more this way. Nature power makes various solar panels so you could find some smaller ones of the same brand to supplement it. This one is not so easy to install, you might need to hire someone to install it for you.

Wattage: 165

3. Nature Power Monocrystalline

Nature power makes a portable solar panel that fits inside a special briefcase. It is perfect for stowing away easily and only taking it out when it is needed. It is decently powerful considering its portable, but there is the inconvenience factor of having to set it up each time. If you planned to buy the nature power rigid, buying one of these portable panels might be ideal for supplementing your power supply when it is especially sunny. Though, it may be cheaper for you to just fit more of the Nature Power Rigids.

Wattage: 120

Hopefully, you now have a good idea about whether solar panels would be right for you and your sailboat. Sailing is great, but the lack of power at sea can be dreadfully boring. Luckily, there are so many great options available on the market. Not just the ones mentioned above. Buying a solar panel is an investment, the initial cost is minor compared to the steady return from all the savings you will make.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Solar panels for boats: an easy installation guide., marine solar panel installation.

I am writing the following instructions for boat people or RV campers.
I describe a basic set up that provides a charge onto your 12 Volt DC battery bank.
If you want to use this system to power your home, then you'll also need an inverter to switch the 12 Volt DC electricity to 110 Volt AC.

Ok, here's my simple DIY instructions for solar installation on a boat or an RV camper.

How to install solar panels for boats, step by step guide for installing a solar panel boat system, faq: what size panel should i get, faq: which brand of solar panel is best, faq: do i need a controller, faq: how did you mount your panel on your stern rail, faq: how do you wire up the panels/controller/battery, faq: how much will this whole solar panel project cost, solar power for boats price breakdown, okay - good luck with your marine solar panel installation , capt. curran, 60 comments:.

Heany - Don't hesitate, the beauty of this system is that there are no moving parts, which means maintenance is minimal.. turning photons to electrons

Good question - visit your local machine shop They should have barrels of aluminum flat panels You want 12-16 inch long, need to measure panel That's it Then drill holes and strap in on the rail Have fun!

Thanks Douglass - all the best..

Great information, thank you! Where did you purchase the white plastic rail mounts?

Hello Philip Magistro, I bought them at a boating store in Seattle - called Fisheries Supply - they may ship. But I would also check your local west marine - they are standard stern rail mounts - they fit lots of other stuff as well as solar panels. Good luck !

Excellent, glad it was helpful. I'm about to post a couple new photos of the system. Everything is still working great.

Two questions 1. Is a 30w panel large enough to trick charge two 12v batteries? 2. How large an in-line on the positive lead to the battery?

Hello - Yes, a 30watt panel is large enough to trickle charge 2 12 V batteries. That is the set up I have on my boat - it works great - even in mixed sun/cloud conditions. When you ask 'how large' an in-line on the pos. lead - I am assuming you're asking the guage. I can't give the exact guage that is suited for your set-up. But, I know that the reasonable range is between 10-14 awg. Hope that helps.. Cheers

Kevin Thanks. Great info! I was actually trying to ask type and size of fuse on the positive lead to the battery. Fingers! Cheers Bill Pierson

Thanks for a great post! I'll go with the Renogy 200 Watt kit. I know it's not as adventurous, but easier and faster. And time is money :)

Lucas, I hear ya. Time is money - best of luck with that kit. I think you've made a wise decision.... Kevin

Thanks a lot Kavin for your guidance on installing a solar panel on boat. As solar panels are the most effective and the best way of generating electricity these days so everybody wants to install a solar panel of their own. But installing a solar panel in the boat is little challenging. Thanks for sharing the step by step guidelines, it is definitely going to help the readers.

Great article. A few questions: The article explains how to hook it up to one battery. But I have a system with two house banks of two bateries each, as well as a starter battery. How do I ensure that the trickle charge gets to all give batteries? Or do you just hook it up to the starter battery? How does this system interact with my charger?

Mary, I have a similar battery bank - but the two are connected. I connect the leads of the solar panel to my house batteries. However, if they are not connected - then I would connect the leads of your solar panel to the starter battery.

Mary, I would get a MorningStar SunSaver Duo controller which can charge 2 batteries (or banks thereof) and set the 2 house banks in parallel on the controller's Batt1 and the Starter Battery on Batt2. This controller has the option to charge 90/10 or 50/50, 90/10 is best for this setup because the starting battery doesn't need much, just enough to top-it-off.

Hi Kevin, I purchased the Renogy 100w panel with controler. I like your plastic rail mounts. Where can I find those. I plan to mount this on the stern of my 73, 27' Catalina stern rail. Thanks, Chris

Chris, I got mine at a boat store in Seattle called Fishery Supplies. I just looked it up on their website. Here's the page for those rail clamps. https://www.fisheriessupply.com/sea-dog-line-removable-rail-mount-clamps-327199-1 Made by a company called Sea Dog. Good luck - Kevin

I have a 20 volt panel, single marine battery, with a controler working without problem for about 4 years. While motoring out of the marina the controler caught fire. I did not have a fuse installed as you described in your installation guide. Any idea what might have caused this? Barry

Barry Curran, That is an odd and unfortunate situation. I am not an expert on safeguarding circuits, however I can weigh in with my opinion. I do think that the installation of a circuit fuse would help prevent over-charge or over-heating happening within the circuit. I think - assuming the over-charge was happening throughout the circuit - that the fuse would have blown, thereby salvaging your controller. However, there is a chance that a diode or some other internal circuit on the controller was the weak link. In that case, I don't believe a downstream fuse would have helped save your controller. I would install a fuse and get yourself a new controller. Best of luck! Kevin Curran

Just an helpful clarification on the purpose and location of the fuse. The fuse is to protect the wire, and should be placed as close to the origination of the power source as possible which, in this case, is the positive lead near the solar panel. We're all use to hearing about locating the main fuse on a boat as close to the battery as possible; that's because that's where the power comes from. Also, the fuse should be sized based upon the length and gauge of the wire.

Thanks for that additional insight on the location of the fuse! Sorry I didn't see this comment earlier.

Thanks for sharing the helpful guide to install solar panels .

Thanks for sharing article solar installation on boats it is really informative.A Solar panel is typically a panel that absorbs solar energy and uses it as a source of energy to generate electricity. They are basically made up of solar cells or the photovoltaic cells that are arranged as a photovoltaic array making up the photovoltaic system.I know a place one of the best solar installation company provides best solar services and products that are not just economical, but also efficient with customized solutions to offer you the best from our vast range of affordable models...

Greetings, How lucky am I to have happened upon your easily understood blog. Stupid question: can I mount the solar panel flat on the deck of my Nonsuch sailboat? (I know: don’t step on it!). Will it be worthwhile? (It can’t go on the stern rail).

Yes, that can be done. If you have a bimini or any cover in your cockpit, that is probably a better location. But flat on the deck can work, you can create a border around it to prevent falling on it...

Thank you so much for your excellent blog. I am considering a solar system for my 28' Catalina sailboat. Battery question: Any problem using solar systems with AGM batteries? I have two, house and starter battery.

Hmmm, that's a good question. I have never heard of any issue with AGMs on a solar system. Any other readers here have comments?

Selecting the correct charger depends primarily on the design of your deep cycle battery, so the first thing you need to do is determine the construction type of your battery. TrollingBatteryAdvisor.com This is likely to prolong the life of each battery and save you money in the long run.

Great blog! Can I leave my solar panel attached to the battery while I'm drawing from the battery to run my trolling motor?

Anonymous, Yes, you certainly can. There is no issue with drawing from a battery that is being fed energy from a solar panel. Enjoy Captain Curran

Thanks for sharing this article here about the solar panels for boats . Your article is very informative and I will share it with my other friends as the information is really very useful. Keep sharing your excellent work.

Great to hear! Glad the post was helpful..

Thanks a lot, Captain Curran and co-Captain Jessica for a nice and informative article about "Marine solar panel installation". This article will surely help the sailor in the Sea. And using a solar panel in the mid-sea is a very nice idea as an alternative source of power. Best wishes from SolarPandit

Thank you very much, Captain Curran and co-Captain Jessica, for a very interesting and insightful post on "Marine solar panel installation." This article will undoubtedly assist the sailor at sea. Using a solar panel and in the middle of the sea as an alternate source of electricity is also a great idea.

Hello all, Great to see the article has been helpful for those putting panels on their boat. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. I changed the notification, so I should be pinged when someone asks a question. Fair winds!

The Renogy 30 Watt Solar Panel is an excellent choice for light energy users, while the 100 Watt Solar Panel is preferred for moderate energy users. And remember to use a suitable quality controller like the Morningstar SunSaver-10 to control the panel's charge and prevent over-charging the battery.

Their step-by-step guide for installing solar panels on boats is incredibly helpful, and I appreciate the personal touch of sharing their own experiences and the success they've had with their solar panel system. The detailed explanations, recommended products, and estimated costs make it easy for someone like me to envision completing this project over a weekend. I'm definitely inspired to take on this DIY installation and enjoy the freedom of generating my own energy while sailing.

I can’t really help but admire your article your topic is so adorable and nice.

Forbidden love in a mesmerizing supernatural universe. Anime like Devils Line

Captain Curran's guide to installing solar panels on boats is a real lifesaver! After following his easy-to-understand steps, I completed my own installation over a weekend, and now my boat's batteries are always topped off during my fishing trips in the Chesapeake Bay. No more worries about a dead battery spoiling the fun!

Hello Captain, Great article, thank you. Our vessel has (6) 6 volt golf cart batteries, a 2000 Watt inverter, plus a generator. I want to limit the generator recharge time by installing a 100 or 200 watt kit that you recommend. My question is can I just connect the pos. and neg. marine grade wires from the controller directly to my battery bank pos. and neg. Thanks, John

This article on installing solar panels for boats brought back memories of my own sailing adventures along the coast of California. I remember the frustration of being stranded due to a dead battery and the relief that came with finding a solution. Capt. Curran's step-by-step guide is not only practical but also reflects his passion for sustainable energy solutions, making it a valuable resource for fellow sailors.

Best Solar Panels For Sailboats of 2024

Sailing uses the power of the wind to move, so why not use the power of the sun to charge your batteries? Solar panels offer the best way to charge boat batteries. This method can also save the engine from being used just for charging. Getting the best solar panels for sailboats means choosing the right size and power for your boat.

But, how much power will you need? Will your panels be able to keep up even on cloudy days? Do you plan to sail in cold water or deep in the tropics? Do you need the panels to sit on a curved surface? There’s a surprising amount of factors to consider when purchasing sailboat solar panels.

Whether you’re replacing old panels or buying for the first time, let us do the hard work of comparing the best solar panels for your boat.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Wind Generators for Sailboats .

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST SOLAR PANELS FOR SAILBOATS

Nature Power Monocrystalline
Nature Power Rigid
Renogy Starter Kit (4 panels)
Newpowa Poly Solar Panel
Acopower Polycrystalline
Nature Power 90W Rigid
Newpowa 150W
Suaoki SunPower
Eco-Worthy Semi-Flexible

SAILBOAT SOLAR PANEL REVIEWS

Nature power monocrystalline.

Check out the latest price on: Amazon | West Marine

BEST FOR: Efficient high-power use

WEIGHT: Unspecified

WATTS/AMPS: 120W/6.6A

SIZE: 45.1” x 33.6” x 3”

PROS: Foldable for easy storage and portability, pop-out legs that allow it to easily sit at an angle, sturdy design

CONS: On the upper end of the price spectrum, short warranty

NATURE POWER RIGID

BEST FOR: Energy-hungry boats

WATTS/AMPS: 165W/9.4A

SIZE: 57.8” x 26.3” x 1.4”

PROS: Powerful and efficient, scratch resistant and anti-reflective coating, well-built aluminum frame, easy-to-use connections

CONS: Powerful but expensive, only suitable for larger boats with a big flat space to set it up on

RENOGY STARTER KIT (PACK OF 4 PANELS)

Check out the latest price on: Amazon

BEST FOR: Large boats needing lots of power

WEIGHT: 18.0lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 400W/22A

SIZE: 4 x 47.0” x 21.3” x 2.0”

PROS: Includes x4 100W panels along with a charge controller and everything else needed to set up, ideal for sailors looking for a lot of power, easy mounting system, great price for a comprehensive kit

CONS: Rigid solar panels can only be on flat surfaces or mounted on rails, included charge controller might not be the charge controller for your needs

NEWPOWA POLY SOLAR PANEL

BEST FOR: Keeping small battery banks topped up

WEIGHT: 6.3lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 30W/1.7A

SIZE: 27.0” x 14.3” x 1.9”

PROS: Sturdy design, small and slim making it ideal for stern rail, wattage should be enough to trickle-charge medium battery banks, very affordable

CONS: Rigid design means placement is limited, heavy for a small panel

ACOPOWER POLYCRYSTALLINE

BEST FOR: Larger sailboat trickle-charging

WEIGHT: 6.9lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 35W/2A

SIZE: 29.9” x 16.1” x 1.7”

PROS: Looks neat with silver aluminum frame, should be able to easily keep batteries topped up and contribute to energy requirements when boat is in use, very affordable and slim, other wattages available

CONS: Weighty, aluminum frames can have sharp corners

NATURE POWER 90W RIGID

Check out the latest price on: West Marine

BEST FOR: Permanent mounting

WEIGHT: 15.2lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 90W/4.9A

SIZE: 33.7” x 26.5” x 1.0”

PROS: Sturdy frame can be mounted on gantry rails permanently, good power output and small enough to be mounted alongside an identical panel for double power, long warranty, reputable brand

CONS: Awkward to move about the deck so not ideal for portable panel, fairly heavy

NEWPOWA 150W

BEST FOR: Medium to large sailboats

WEIGHT: 24.4lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 150W/8.3A

SIZE: 58.4” x 26.6” x 1.2”

PROS: Great for permanent mounting, powerful and well-built,

CONS: Very heavy, only comes with 3ft of cable which may well be too short and require extension

SUAOKI SUNPOWER

BEST FOR: Smaller, lightweight sailboats

WEIGHT: 4.8lbs

WATTS/AMPS: 100W/5.6A

SIZE: 43.3” x 22.4” x 0.1”

PROS: 30-degree curve possible making this ideal for boat coach roofs, very thin makes for less dirt buildup and less wind resistance, good price for a powerful panel

CONS: Cable connections are on the top of the panel which may encourage corrosion and UV damage

ECO-WORTHY SEMI-FLEXIBLE

BEST FOR: Coach roofs and curved deck areas

WATTS/AMPS: 100W/5.5A

SIZE: 47.4” x 21.6” x 0.1”

PROS: Capable of a 30-degree curve making it suitable for coach roofs and curved decks, thin and durable construction

CONS: Connector on top allowing salt build-up and accidental damage

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST SOLAR PANELS FOR SAILBOATS

How to choose the best solar panels for sailboats, 1. required energy.

Buying solar panels for your sailboat involves more than going over a few models at random. You need to know how much power you’ll need daily. Also, you need to determine whether you will rely solely on solar power or use the engine as well.

SOLAR AND ENGINE

Will you use solar power most of or all the time? If yes, then you will need higher power, larger or more solar panels. If you plan to use the engine more, then you won’t need as much solar power.

Your sailing goals come into play in this decision. If you want to cruise the intercoastal waterways, chances are you’ll be using your engine a lot. If you plan on cruising the Caribbean, you can often rely on good winds for sailing.

Once you’ve worked out how you plan on powering your sailboat – solar and engine, or just solar – you’ll need to work out your daily amp draw . If you’ll be running a fridge, freezer, water maker, VHF and SAT NAV all day long, you’re definitely going to need a lot of power!

It can be difficult to determine how many amps your sailboat will need, especially if you still don’t have all the electronics you plan to bring on board. Some products will give you an idea of their power draw in their technical specifications. For others that don’t provide that information, you may have to settle for an estimate.

Once you have an idea of your daily amp draw, then you can work out the solar output required to keep up with that power draw. But there are other considerations too, namely, actual output vs maximum output.

ACTUAL OUTPUT VS MAXIMUM OUTPUT

While a 90W solar panel might sound like it’ll give out 90W, remember that this is its maximum output. That is, it refers to a clean panel in full sunshine. It won’t be giving anywhere near that output on cloudy days. In the case of a fixed panel, ask yourself if the sail will be casting a shadow over it on one tack.

Unless you plan on running the engine to top up the batteries on cloudy days, you will find yourself needing enough solar panel output for these times. Make sure to also consider the times when your panels aren’t giving out their optimum performance.

TEMPERATURE CHANGES

If you’re starting in Nova Scotia, your fridge won’t take much power to keep it at a cool temperature. But, what happens when you sail south to go diving in Mexico ? Suddenly, the water temperature is higher and the fridge would have to work twice as hard to stay cool. While good insulation is a bonus on a sailboat, it’s important to remember that atmospheric changes like temperature may mean an increase (or decrease) in your power requirement.

ARE WE TALKING AMPS OR WATTS?

While you need to know how many amps your sailboat will draw on a daily basis, solar panels are sold by watts. There’s no need for that to be confusing though, as we’ve also provided the amps in the chart. You can read more about watts and amps to get a better understanding.

2. HOW MANY SOLAR PANELS DO YOU NEED?

Many sailboats have more than one solar panel. This means you won’t need to move the panels to follow the sun or as the boat shifts at anchor. Having multiple solar panels also allows you to have smaller panels, which tend to get in the way less. Your required power output can be divided among them as well.

If you need 200W a day, then you could have three 90W solar panels on different parts of the boat and be covered power-wise, even on different tacks.

How much space do you have on deck? Where you place your solar panels is very boat and sailor dependent. Day-sailing in hot places? Solar panels on the bimini rack are an easy solution. Long-distance cruising? You’ll need solar panels that are efficient yet out of the way to improve windward performance.

If you spend a large amount of time on board, your energy consumption will be higher. You’ll need your solar panels to be as efficient as possible. Many cruisers have panels on top of gantries on the stern to keep them in sunshine all the time. This is terrible for sailing performance, so you have to think about where you want to compromise. Don’t forget to consider the other on-deck items, such as your paddle board , as well.

Solar panels generally come in two types: mono- and multicrystalline and amorphous thin film silicone. However, all solar panels listed in this article will be mono- or multicrystalline as they are the most effective.

MONO- AND MULTI-CRYSTALLINE

Efficient and sturdy, these panels will probably make up your core solar panel collection. For everything on board like lights, fridge, radio and navigation electrics, mono-and multicrystalline are your best bets. They aren’t forgiving on cloudy days though, and even a shadow over the corner of a panel will pull down the output by a lot.

AMORPHOUS THIN FILM SILICONE

Not as efficient as crystalline panels, amorphous panels are cheaper and flexible. They’re good for trickle-charging batteries while the boat is left unattended.

Solar panels are expensive, but their prices have been dropping over the years. If you only use your sailboat for summer weekends, chances are you won’t need pricey, hyper-efficient panels. You just need enough to keep up with your power consumption for two days a week and let the trickle-charge solar panel do the rest.

Take your solar panel budget and split it between the number of solar panels you think you’ll need. Keep in mind though that you’ll most likely need to buy a charge controller as well.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Sailboat Anchors

Sailboat Winches

Sailing Shoes

Solar Panels for Sailboats

Bilge Pumps

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Solar on the go

Picking the best solar panels for a sailboat: Buyer’s guide

18 Aug 2022

You might have already heard of brave sailors that conquer the oceans with nothing but wits and solar panels. For instance, this year 83-year-old Kenichi Horie became the oldest person to sail solo from the US to Japan on a solar-powered boat. These stories are inspiring, but picking panels for your boat yourself can be a small challenge in itself. That’s why we wrote a short article about the best solar panels for sailboats and how to recognize them.

Start from type of solar panels

When it comes to solar panels for sailboats, their weight and size matters more than with PV modules for residential systems. Efficiency is important but power — not that much, because the energy needs of a boat are relatively low. The first thing you’ll have to decide about your panels is their type.

Generally, you’ll choose between thin-film panels and monocrystalline modules. While polycrystalline panels are still around and they are indeed cheaper than mono panels, they are much less efficient, which means they’ll need more space and add more weight to your boat.

Thin-film panels are light and cheap

Thin-film or flexible solar panels bend well and they are very easy to install which makes them a great choice for boats with difficult configurations. Some sailors say that flexible panels are the best choice for fast boats because they don’t impact the aerodynamics of a vessel as much as rigid panels do.

The downside of flexible panels is their low wattage. If there are many appliances on board, you’ll need several panels and you’ll need to find the right place for each of them. They also age faster than rigid panels — a thin-film panel generally lasts for 10-15 years.

Monocrystalline panels are powerful and reliable

Rigid solar modules, monocrystalline and polycrystalline, are heavier and bulkier than thin-film panels. You can fix flexible panels with adhesives, but rigid panels require drilling. They are also more expensive than flexible panels.

On the other hand, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient type of panels which means that they provide more power for less space. Even one powerful mono panel can be enough for everything that you’ve got on board. They are also much more reliable and will survive any storm that is coming your way. A monocrystalline panel lasts for at least 25 years.

Panels for boat should be efficient and sturdy

The best solar panels for sailboats don’t have to be powerful, but they better be efficient — find the number in the datasheet. For rigid panels anything over 18-19% is fine. Panels also should be sturdy enough to withstand seastorms. You generally also want good shading tolerance since panels often get shaded by masts and sails. Finally, good performance in low-light conditions is appreciated.

Picking bifacial panels, 72/144-cell panels or larger, anything too powerful generally doesn't make a lot of sense. Performance at high temperatures matters less than it does with home systems. Warranties also play a lesser role. You won’t be able to make use of them because they generally have effect only for residential installations.

The markets of thin-film and rigid panels are different. Generally, a manufacturer of flexible panels doesn’t offer mono- or poly-panels. Canadian Solar, Q CELLS and Jinko Solar are good choices when it comes to monocrystalline modules for boats. Renogy , WindyNation and PowerFilm make fine thin-film panels.

Do the math before purchase

The amount of power for your boat depends on the number of appliances on your board. There are two main ways to determine the size of installation that you need. You can take a test trip and see how much of your battery’s charge you’ve spent in one day. You can also do the calculations manually: write down all the appliances on the board with their power rating and number of hours in use per day. You can read about it in detail in our article " How much solar power to sail the seas? " It doesn’t make sense to oversize a marine PV system, because all the excess power will just go to waste.

Keep in mind that adding photovoltaics doesn’t make your vessel a solar boat, unless you have a solar-powered motor. You can switch your boat to solar energy fully, especially if it’s small, but you’ll have to calculate your energy needs accordingly.

Once you’ve purchased your panels, you’ll have to install them properly. You can order professional service or do it yourself. The most popular places for solar panels on a boat are a stern rail, masts, deck and canvas. Thin-film panels can even go on the sails. Ideally, you want a place where panels wouldn’t be shaded by masts on any other parts of a boat.

List of solar panels for a sailboat

We’ve asked our engineer to pick the panels that would complement a small boat well. These are his choices:

ZNShine Solar ZXM6-NH120-370/M

Solar panels from ZNShine Solar are inexpensive and fit all kinds of applications, including boat systems. ZXM6-NH120-370/M provides 370 Watts of power with a 19.88% efficiency. It performs well in low-light conditions. Graphene coating increases power generation and allows self-cleaning. The only downside is a lower wind tolerance, compared to other models: it is rated to withstand 2400 Pa pressure which is comparable to 140 mph wind.

Mission Solar MSE345SX5T

MSE 345 is a simple solar panel for all kinds of applications, including boat installations. Mission Solar panels are manufactured in Texas. The module provides 345 Watts of power with 18.7% efficiency. It is certified for high snow (5400 Pa) and wind loads (4000 Pa). The model is resistant to salt mist corrosion.

Suntech STP 365 S

Suntech is a Chinese company that offers quality budget-friendly solar panels. The STP365S model stands out in line because of its great performance in weak light, such as cloudy weather and mornings. It is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, and the module is certified to tolerate wind of over 170 mph. Half-cut design makes cells sturdier and improves shading tolerance. Overall, this panel earns a place among the best boat solar panels.

Andrey had been a news editor and freelance writer for a number of medias before joining A1SolarStore team. Climate change and its impact on people's lives has always been among his interests and it partially explains his degree in Philosophy and Ethics.

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This yacht sets sail with solar

The 60 square meters of solar panels produces 30-50 kWh of energy per day, enough to power all of the onboard electronic equipment for around seven hours.

Commercial & Industrial PV

Solar-powered Baltic yacht.

Image: Solbian Solar

Baltic Yachts began delivery in July of its Baltic 146 Path, which includes an 8,714 watt solar rooftop and energy storage system designed by Solbian Solar using the company’s walkable solar modules.

Recently, some of the yacht’s technical work has been shared online. Built from 1,742 monocrystalline solar cells, many of the 86 solar panels were custom cut to fit the deck’s shape by the Solibian team in Italy. The units were based on the company’s Super Rugged (SR) Series .

The SR series has solar cell busbar technology developed by Merlin Solar. In one video, the Merlin team drives over the solar panel, throws bags of cement on it, and even shoots it with a bow and arrow in an effort to prove the product’s resilience. The company said its busbar technology makes this kind of abuse possible.

The 60 square meters of solar panels produces 30-50 kWh of energy per day. The company said that’s enough to power all of the onboard electronic equipment–including navigation, autopilot, lighting, and entertainment–for around seven hours.

Once the sun goes down, a Mastervolt MLI 44kWh LiFePO4 battery pack allows the diesel generator mostly to stay off, providing generally silent operation for 14-18 hours.

Baltic Yacht’s solar system is roughly half the size of the Silent 60’s 16.8 kWdc solar plus storage system. The Silent 60 is a solar-propelled yacht less than half the lengthBaltic yacht and price, which reaches 6-8 knots on solar power alone. The Path does not feature electric propulsion and therefore relies on diesel engines when the wind dies down.

Since the Path uses a sail for propulsion, the team installed 154 bypass diodes and 12 solar panel strings and trackers – Mastervolt SCM-60 MPPTS – in an effort to maximize power output and minimize the effect of the sail’s shadows on the panels. The entire solar system, including wiring, controllers and small parts, weighs less than 300kg, the company said

The 146 Path has an overall length of 146 feet. The yacht can accommodate eight in addition to the ship’s owner, as well as eight crew members. Path carries two tenders, an 8hp Torqeedo electric outboard-powered RIB, and a 6.5m twin-engined RibEye. There are also two ultra-lightweight Reverso Match sailing dinghies.

When the front tender is deployed, its storage container can be turned into a pool.

The ship’s main diesel engine is a 405kW (550hp), six-cylinder Scania. The specific model isn’t listed, however the “ DI13 092M IMO Tier III, EU Stage IIIA ” lines up with all of the stats and looks like the unit in a video of the engine being installed.

The owner’s suite includes a sleeping cabin, and an en suite lounge with a glass divider doubling as a movie, tv, and sailing information screen. An upper lounge features a 2.7m-long video wall.

This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com .

John Fitzgerald Weaver

More articles from John Fitzgerald Weaver

People on the Move: ACORE, Sunnova Energy, Lighthouse bp, and more

Sandia offers public access to csp archives, related content, elsewhere on pv magazine....

Since it is E propulsion all they have to do to change while sailing is use the motor in regen it’ll generate power back into the pack at much larger amounts. And a small RE fueled generator just in case. As a sailor who does solar, not a chance it’ll get that much from the solar from all the shading from the rigging. More likely 10-30kwh/day. On mine, I made the sails small with 2 masts so I can lower them to not shade the panels.

Any photos of your boat you can share?

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Choosing the Best Marine Solar Panels for Your Boat

There’s nothing like kicking back and relaxing in a boat all to yourself. But while sailing the waves and soaking in the sun is an awesome getaway, you’ll still need to think about how to generate electricity while on board, especially for running your boat battery.

Get free power through solar energy with the best marine solar panels. Not only are they easy to set up and use, but you also save money by relying on renewable energy instead of paying expensive electricity bills like usual.

But how do you look for the most suitable solar panels for boats if there are dozens of solar panel types out there? Well, you’ve come to the right marine solar panels review. There are three key things you need to keep your eyes out for when choosing marine solar panel kits for your beloved boat.

Waterproof: Since you’ll be traveling across bodies of water, you have to anticipate that your solar panels could get wet. Make sure your solar panels are resilient against water damage through waterproof designs.
Flexible: Boats have curved surfaces, unlike roofs that are flat and can do with rigid panels. Marine solar panels can be straight and conventional, but it would be a big help if they were flexible so that you can mount them on tricky surfaces on your boat. Flexible solar panels hug irregular surfaces, ensuring they don’t topple over as your boat moves.
Thin: Boats are small spaces as it is. You don’t need bulky, rigid panels occupying more space than necessary. Go for ones that are about an inch or so thick. Thinner solar panels are sleek and don’t take up too much space, so they’re a must for marine solar solutions.

There are many other factors you need to consider when looking through boat solar panels for sale. Check out the rest of the important factors in our buying guide below.

Need more help picking out a good boat solar panel kit? Look through this rundown of solar panels for boats reviews to see some of the most popular options.

Best Overall

Renogy Monocrystalline Solar Panel

Premium Choice

Topsolar Solar Panel

Editor’s Pick

ECO-WORTHY Solar Panel

Table of Contents

1. Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel

2. topsolar 20-watt monocrystalline solar panel, 3. eco-worthy 25w off-grid solar panel, 4. renogy extremely flexible solar panel, 5. suner power 30w polycrystalline solar panel, 6. newpowa monocrystalline 100-watt solar panel, 7. rich solar polycrystalline solar panel, 8. topsolar 100-watt 12-volt solar panel kit, 9. newpowa monocrystalline 30-watt solar panel, what to look for when looking through marine solar panel options, how many solar panels do i need to run a boat, how many amps does a marine refrigerator use, how do you install solar panels on a boat, top-rated marine solar panel reviews.

Material: Monocrystalline
Wattage: 100W
Voltage: 12V

This solar panel kit by Renogy is awesome because it’s an all-in-one solar system. It includes all the necessary cables and accessories to get the show on the road.

The convenient kit includes a 100-watt solar panel, the Wanderer 30A PWM controller, and connectors and adapters. It even has Z brackets for mounting your solar panel. I like that I didn’t have to purchase all these separately.

I like that the Wanderer charge controller is negative ground, which means it prevents any overcharging and short-circuiting issues with our batteries.

Now, for the solar panel itself, I appreciated how the frame was made of sturdy, high-quality, corrosion-resistant aluminum, making the panel extra durable.

Its monocrystalline solar cells can convert 21% of the solar power to free energy you can use on your boat. That’s pretty high compared to other solar panels.

Plus, the production power of this solar panel kit is quiet, so it won’t bother you when you need silence.

Includes the necessary connectors, controller, and mounting brackets
The negative ground controller stops overcharging and short circuits
The solar panel has a durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame
Monocrystalline cells convert 21% of solar power into free energy for you
Power production is quiet, so it will never disturb users
The charge controller has no LCD screen
Wattage: 20W

This Topsolar solar panel kit is another one that offers a lot of accessories. It comes with a charge controller, some alligator clips to hold your cables and connectors properly, and even an O-ring terminal.

The solar panel itself is made of thick, high-class tempered glass to protect the cells inside. It’s framed with aluminum for extra sturdiness as well. I love that it’s made of such premium materials, so I never have to worry about it being too flimsy or break apart easily.

All in all, the solar panel weighs a mere 4.8 lbs, making it easy to carry around. It’s lightweight enough for effortless lifting and transporting when I’m about to install it or move it to another area.

This marine solar panel is resistant to harsh weather, thanks to its maximum static load of 2,400 Pa. Because of this, you can use it worry-free, even in inclement climates.

There are pre-drilled holes at the back of the panel to make it easier to set up with screws and grommets.

Comes with a charge controller, alligator clips, and O-ring terminal
The panel is made of tempered glass and an aluminum framing
Weighs only 4.8 lbs, so it’s easy to lift and carry around
Resistant to harsh weather like wind or snow
Has pre-drilled holes at the back to make set-up easier
Doesn’t include mounting brackets
Material: Polycrystalline
Wattage: 25W

A long lifespan is one of the top factors I consider when looking for a marine solar panel. This one by ECO-WORTHY ticks off that box because it is built to last.

It’s made with highly efficient cells to give me adequate power output. The framing is designed with aluminum to make it sturdy, increasing its longevity.

This off-grid solar panel kit comes with a convenient charge controller. Its interface may not have a modern display screen, but it does have light indicators that update in real-time so you can tell how far your charge is coming along. It also has a USB port to let you charge your phones and other small devices.

The solar panel set comes with SAE connector cables to help users set up. They’re quite long and stretch to 9.84 feet, giving us maximum flexibility for moving our panel and charge controller around.

ECO-WORTHY offers a one-year warranty for this kit. You’ll also have access to the brand’s 24/7 hotline in case you have questions or concerns with your solar panel.

Made with high-efficiency solar cells and aluminum for longevity
Charge controller has power indicators that update in real-time
There’s a USB port on the charge controller for small devices
The SAE connector cables are quite long at 9.84 feet
A one-year warranty with 24/7 technical support from ECO-WORTHY
One 25W solar panel might not be enough to power multiple appliances

Setting up solar panels on curved surfaces is tough, but with these Renogy flexible solar panels for boats, it’s never a challenge.

These flexible solar panels bend to a 248-degree arc, which is a lot more flexible than other bendable panels. This is excellent for boat and yacht decks that are curved.

The panels are made of monocrystalline cells that emit 100 watts, ensuring a strong and reliable power supply for our consumption.

Transporting and setting up these flexible solar panels is a walk in the park, thanks to its lightweight and super thin design. They’re never bulky and retain the smooth silhouette of your boat.

They’re thin and light because they’re designed with advanced polymer, which is 70% lighter than other materials traditionally used to build solar panels.

These flexible panels are made to withstand bad weather. They resist impact and don’t get damaged in heavy loads of rain. You’ll find that they even tolerate up to 5,400Pa of snow.

Bends to a 248-degree arc to fit irregular and curved surfaces and decks
Monocrystalline panels emit a consistent 100 watts
Super lightweight and ultra-thin, making it a breeze to transport
Made with advanced polymer that is 70% lighter than traditional materials
Resists impact and damage from heavy loads of rain and snow
The cables in the solar panel kit aren’t the same length

These solar panels by SUNER POWER are built with high-efficiency polycrystalline cells, giving me great performance even with the small energy output. They emit up to 30 watts of power to use as free energy on the boat.

This kit charges our batteries safely. It goes through a strict three-step intelligent algorithm to make sure our battery doesn’t go through overheating and short-circuiting, so I know I’m extra safe.

You’ll also find bright LED lights on the charge controller that indicate how the charge is coming for easy monitoring. It’s a convenient way to make sure our charging is right on track even when we’re doing other errands on the boat.

Tough weather conditions are nothing when it comes to this marine solar panel. It’s built with IP65 waterproof technology, so I don’t have to worry about the climate damaging my solar panel kit. It can even resist erosion, rusting, and damage from the sun’s UV rays.

Polycrystalline cells emit 30 watts of power to use as free energy
Charges our battery safely with an intelligent three-step algorithm
Has bright LED light indicators so you can see how your charging is going
Withstands tough weather because of IP65 waterproof technology
Resists erosion, rusting, and UV damage in finicky weather
The wires could be longer

This Newpowa monocrystalline panel is smaller in size compared to most other panels. It comes up to about 45 x 20 inches, making it more manageable than bigger ones.

It’s made of monocrystalline cells that are highly efficient in turning power from the sun into free energy for our consumption and charging.

The panel’s aluminum framing prevents any corrosion, which extends the lifespan of the solar panel kit. That means I won’t have to constantly replace it.

The marine solar panel and some of its accessories are made to be waterproof. That way, they’ll survive even the most horrible weather conditions as you sail.

Venturing to areas and cities without much bright sunlight is no problem for this marine solar panel kit. The junction box is equipped with bypass diodes that ensure users don’t get any power outages even in cloudy, shaded areas.

Smaller in size and more manageable than other solar panels
The monocrystalline panels are efficient in converting power into energy
Aluminum framing prevents corrosion, extending the solar panel’s life
These monocrystalline solar panels can survive horrible weather
Junction box has diodes to let your power work even in low-light areas
You don’t get the rated 100-watt output every single day

This RICH SOLAR panel is one of my favorites for travelling. I love it because it allows for more sunlight absorption. The panels’ anti-reflective, high-transmission film also helps make energy conversion more efficient.

Because of these factors, this panel works extremely well even in areas that are low in sunlight . So when I know I’m going to be sailing to cloudy shores, I make sure to bring this panel along.

This set uses quick-connect cables that don’t take more than a few seconds to fix up. It makes installation fast and easy even for beginners.

There are also about 14 holes on the panel so that you can simply screw it onto your mount. That means you can set it up without the complication of drilling the holes yourself. The design is also compatible with a variety of mounts, further adding to user’s convenience.

Its anti-reflective panels are high-transmission for even more efficiency
High conversion efficiency even in areas without bright sunlight
Uses quick-connect cables, so setting up is fast and easy even for beginners
There are 14 pre-drilled holes on the panel for quick installation
Works with many types of mounts
Doesn’t include mounting brackets, so you have to purchase some

This solar panel by Topsolar emits 100 watts of power to charge any 12-volt battery while you’re on the go. It’s perfect for cars, RVs, and a huge range of off-grid uses, but it works excellently for boats too.

The panel is made with monocrystalline cells, protected by a coating of high-quality tempered glass. This protective layer also prevents wear-and-tear in the long term. Meanwhile, anodized aluminum frames the panel, protecting the edges from corrosion.

You get a V-shaped bracket along with your panel in this kit. This bracket allows users to tilt the panel in whatever direction they desire. It’s very helpful when we’re trying to position the panel to face the sunlight directly.

The charge controller this solar panel comes with is made with IP67-rated waterproof technology. This means it prevents any water damage from ruining our solar system.

Charges any standard 12-volt battery while you’re on the go
A wide range of uses
The mono cells are protected with wear-resistant tempered glass
The framing is made of anodized aluminum to protect the panel’s edges
Comes with a V-shaped bracket to tilt the panel in the direction of the sun
The charge controller is made with IP67 technology to avoid water damage
The panel is quite heavy at almost 16 lbs, making it heavy to carry

This Newpowa panel emits 30 watts of power. That may sound small to some people, but it’s perfect for charging small devices and running just a few appliances on a short boat ride.

It’s made with high-efficiency monocrystalline cells. These cells allow for a more compact panel design that is smaller and more manageable than the brand’s polycrystalline panels.

Multiple layers of the panel protect its cells. This includes an ethylene-vinyl-acetate encapsulation, iron tempered glass, and even a TPT back sheet that can help with heat dissipation.

There are wires already pre-attached to the panel, one at 3 ft and another at 1 ft. Both of these have Anderson connectors as well, so users don’t have to fuss about setting them up themselves.

The panel also has holes pre-drilled in them, so it’s ready to be screwed into your mount or bracket of choice.

Provides 30 watts of power, perfect for small devices and short trips
Made with high-efficiency mono cells that allow for a compact design
Cells are protected by multiple layers, like tempered glass and TPT backing
The wires and connectors are pre-attached, which is great for beginners
Comes with mounting holes already drilled on the back of the panel
The solar panel isn’t weatherproof, so you can only use it on sunny days

HQST 100W 12V Solar Panel (Outdated)

This 100-watt solar panel by HQST is designed for efficiency and durability. The panel itself is anti-reflective, thanks to thick and durable tempered glass. It’s also lined with aluminum in its framing, which resists corrosion and damage to the panel’s edges.

Polycrystalline solar panels like this one are made with high-efficiency cells that convert more power into energy than the usual panel. They also contain diodes to bypass any power outages or drops when your boat travels into a shaded area.

This kit’s junction box is rated IP65, which means it’s waterproof. That way, it can resist damage from water jets and uncontrollable weather.

Installation is a breeze with the pre-drilled holes at the back of this panel. It’s perfect for newbies that don’t want to call in a professional to set it up.

The anti-reflective panel is made with sturdy tempered glass
An aluminum frame
Polycrystalline panels efficiently convert the sun’s energy into power
Contains diodes to bypass power outages when you go into low-light areas
The junction box is rated IP65 to resist damage from undesirable weather
Comes with holes drilled at the back of the solar panel for easy mounting
The wires on the panel are quite short

WindyNation 100W Off-Grid Solar Panel (Outdated)

I love that this solar panel by WindyNation gives off a consistent 100 watts of power, provided that the panels are positioned directly under the sun. That makes it an ultra-reliable panel that isn’t flip-floppy when powering our devices.

The solar system comes with many accessories you’ll need to set up and use your panel. There’s a quality charge controller, some mounting brackets, and all the necessary cables needed.

My favorite part about this system is the charge controller. It has a high-quality LCD screen that displays all the information I need to see about my battery as it charges. It even has a sensor to help me monitor the battery’s temperature.

I can also choose and adjust what information settings are shown on the screen, depending on my preference. Buyers can get whatever information they’d like to know—amperage, amp-hours, temperatures, voltage, and more!

Consistently provides 100 watts of power when positioned under the sun
Comes with a charge controller, mounting brackets, and cables
The charge controller has an LCD screen
Sensor for battery temperature
You can choose and adjust what settings to see on your LCD screen
You must purchase fuses and fuse holders to complete this solar system

SUNER POWER 12-Volt Waterproof Solar Panel (Outdated)

This solar panel by SUNER POWER doubles as a battery charger. It’s powered by highly efficient polycrystalline cells on a sturdy solar panel. These solar cells generate battery power in any condition, even when the sun isn’t so bright.

The charging system follows a stringent and smart three-step algorithm, keeping your battery safe as it charges. It does so with a unique “Maximum Power Point Tracking” (MPPT) chip, which prevents battery issues like overcharging and short-circuiting. MPPT also allows the charge controller to generate up to 30% more power than others do.

The controller has a LED light where you can see all the pertinent information on your battery, like whether it’s charging and if the battery’s full.

This entire solar system is made with IP65 waterproof technology. It won’t be susceptible to water damage, so users don’t have to worry about backflow from the water around the boat causing damage to it.

High-efficiency polycrystalline solar cells generate power in any condition
Has a smart three-step charging algorithm for a safer charge
Its unique MPPT chip protects your battery
MPPT controller generates up to 30% more solar power than others
Has a LED light to indicate battery status
The system is IP65 waterproof, so it won’t be susceptible to water damage
Designed to work only on 12V batteries

Easy to install through grommets or adhesives

Setting up traditional solar panels on regular surfaces like walls and roofs can be difficult as it is. It might be trickier on a moving, swaying boat.

Make sure your marine solar panels are a breeze to set up. Look for ones that are okay to simply stick onto surfaces with adhesives, or have pre-drilled holes so you can screw them onto a mount quickly.

Provides an adequate amount of energy to power up your batteries and appliances

Select marine solar panels that will give you the right amount of solar power to meet your energy requirements.

For example, if you only need solar power on the boat to charge devices in the short term, 50W or 100W might be enough for your trip.

However, if you intend to use your solar panel to charge marine battery, you’ll definitely need one that converts a higher amount of solar energy—perhaps some 200 watt marine solar panels.

Comes with all the necessary accessories, like connectors and junction boxes

Don’t put yourself through the hassle of buying each part of your marine solar system separately. Look for solar panels that provide all the necessary cables, boxes, and accessories to get you set up immediately. Ensure that your panel comes with connectors, junction boxes, charge controllers, and more.

Manufactured by a legitimate and respectable solar power brand

You must always purchase solar panels from legitimate brands that will give you top-notch and high-quality panels. There are many bogus panels in the market today, so double-check to make sure the solar panels you’re buying come from good, renowned manufacturers

If you’re not sure which solar panels to buy, it’s wise to go for classic, tried-and-tested brands. These include Renogy, TP-Solar, and SunPower marine solar panels.

Plus, buying from bigger brands will increase your chances of getting a product warranty that lasts years.

It depends on how much power you need to keep your appliances and gadgets up and running.

For shorter, one-day excursions, you can live with just one or two high-quality solar panels to provide some electricity to charge your phones and maybe a mini-fridge for the day.

But if you’re planning to sail for longer and live on the boat 24/7, you’ll probably need a bigger boat solar system with as many solar panels as you need. This is because you’ll likely have to run bigger appliances and lights, which demands more solar energy.

If you have a 12V marine refrigerator, it will likely only use up anywhere between 2-6 amps per hour. One solar panel emitting a usual 100 watts is more than enough power for such a fridge.

There are many different ways to set up solar panels on boats. If your solar panel is flexible, thin, and ultra-light, you can simply secure it in place with adhesives.

Thicker panels may need to be screwed in with grommets. If this is the route you’re going for, make sure you have sturdy mounting hardware to place your solar panels in.

Traveling through water may be relaxing and stylish, but the excursion is never complete without the best marine solar panels to provide solar energy and battery power during your trip. Hopefully, this round-up of traditional and flexible marine solar panels reviews help you out on your hunt to find the best panels.

Just make sure your panels are efficient in providing high power, waterproof to avoid damage from the sea, and thin and lightweight for easy mounting and storing. If you tick all those boxes, your sailboat solar panels should be all good.

I am Kathleen Miller, staff writer and reviewer of the Avasolar team. Working with the team has been a pleasure for me so far, I hope to bring readers useful information by creating detailed and easy-to-follow contents.

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Solar panel question/Recommendations

Thread starter artleyt115
Start date Jan 25, 2023
Forums for All Owners
Ask All Sailors

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Power plan.pdf 54.7 KB Views: 66

You need to get a charge controller for the solar panel... then... yes... it would be okay to hook it up to your one battery. @Maine Sail has a few good writeups on this topic.

artleyt115 said: Hello everyone! It’s me again asking more power questions (Hooray!) so I have all my devices in the boat now and I drew up a little excel sheet of how much everything can consume and the hours we plan to run the devices. Now by my (poorly done) math I should expect around 4 day of battery usage of my one GEL 100ah battery with all electronic do-dads on the boat. Now some things (like the fridge) were put at the average consumption, though when I wrote the excel sheet, I put both the initial cooling wattage and the idle wattage (I plan to run that in the house over night before a trip to get the fridge to temp then put it in the boat). So, my questions; if I add another battery in parallel, in theory it should give me 4 days of capacity. If I add another battery, can I put a 200w solar panel on the boat and expect the batteries to be able to take the possible 30amp it can (potentially) produce. And can I put the same solar panel on just one battery for now (Until I buck up and buy the other one) and expect one battery to withstand it? Also (I know sorry) I have a 10a (2 bank) battery charger that I am hooking up, if I get two batteries in parallel can I put one bank on each battery? View attachment 212454 Click to expand

dlochner said: You're off to a good start. If you are unsure of your math, please post the spreadsheet so we can check the formulas, much easier than doing the math ourselves. A few comments: Pick one unit of power, either watt hours or amphours, it is much less confusing that way. Batteries placed in parallel should be of the same age and type to ensure the charges on the battery are balanced. This will lead to longer battery life. Lead Acid batteries generally have a maximum usable capacity of 50% of the total capacity, if the battery is fully recharged between discharges. Realistically, when cruising or when shore power is not accessible, they have a useable capacity of 40%. There are a few exceptions, carbon foam batteries and a couple of high end AGMs have a larger capacity, up to about 70%. Charging a battery is inefficient, it will take between 110% to 120% of the used ah to recharge the battery, i.e., for every 10 ah that is used, recharging will require 12 ah. Solar panels will average efficiencies can be expected to produce 3 times the nominal power each day. A 100 watt panel will produce about 300 watts (25 ah) on average per day, less on cloudy days, a little more on bright sunny days. High efficiency panels (expensive) panels can get close to 4 times. AGM batteries can generally absorb 20 to 40% of their rated capacity when charging in the bulk phase (constant current). This is written as .2C. A 100 ah battery can take a charge of 20 to 40 amps in the bulk phase. Reputable battery manufacturers will use the 20-hour discharge rate to label capacity. Less reputable ones will use the 10 hour rate which tends to yield a higher capacity rating, but less actual capacity in real life settings. A two bank charger can not deliver more than its rated capacity. When 2 batteries are connected, the charge current is divided between the two batteries. Your 10a charger will only put out 5a per battery, which will lead to under charging and very long charge times. Click to expand

dlochner said: You're off to a good start. If you are unsure of your math, please post the spreadsheet so we can check the formulas, much easier than doing the math ourselves. Click to expand

artleyt115 said: This is some really good information, from the sounds of it I should be able to use the 200W solar panel with no issues. (especially with a controller) I'll attach the sheet (though I did not use the formulas on the sheet I just hand did the math) I figured the charger was under powered for even one battery but I mainly figured it was a trickle charger to keep in the boat when I have it on a trailer. Though I didn't know about that absorption rate on the battery, that's awesome! Btw I heard through the grape vine that when a batteries are in parallel they have to be charged slower, is this true? (I don't think this is true but I thought I'd ask) Click to expand

Ralph Johnstone

artleyt115 said: The site wont let me post it :/ Click to expand

artleyt115 said: ... (especially with a controller) ... Click to expand

Timm R Oday25

A couple of thoughts . We also have 25 Oday . A 200 watt solar panel is going to take up an enormous amount of room . We mounted a 30 watt off the back of the rear pulpit . I ran the wiring inside the railing ,under the cockpit and into the regulator mounted on the back of the bulkhead . Most of the electronics you have listed most likely will only run randomly throughout the day . We actually have two solar panels, one for each battery . The "charging" we get from the outboard is maybe 3 to 4 amps . Normally ,we draw down one battery until we are at 12.3 volts . We then flip the battery selector switch to the other battery . While we don't have refrigerator, the auotpilot uses several amps at a time when in use. We've been able to stay out for as long as a week this way

Timm R Oday25 said: A 200 watt solar panel is going to take up an enormous amount of room . Click to expand

200 Watt 12 Volt Flexible Monocrystalline Solar Panel

Highest Efficiency (up to 25.4%)And Best Flexible, Rigid, And Walkable Marine Solar Panels For Your Boat in 2023. We'll help you decide on the right solar panels to meet your power needs.

Maintenance of Flexible Solar Panels

dlochner said: I didn't realize the site blocked excel files, probably because of macros that could hide malicious code. You must use a controller. The Victron controllers with Bluetooth are a good choice, easy to program and efficient. When batteries are in parallel or series they act as one large battery. Batteries in parallel will increase the ah capacity and the charge capacity will increase, but not the acceptance rate, it will still be .2C, but 20% of 200 ah instead of 100ah. Click to expand

Timm R Oday25 said: A couple of thoughts . We also have 25 Oday . A 200 watt solar panel is going to take up an enormous amount of room . We mounted a 30 watt off the back of the rear pulpit . I ran the wiring inside the railing ,under the cockpit and into the regulator mounted on the back of the bulkhead . Most of the electronics you have listed most likely will only run randomly throughout the day . We actually have two solar panels, one for each battery . The "charging" we get from the outboard is maybe 3 to 4 amps . Normally ,we draw down one battery until we are at 12.3 volts . We then flip the battery selector switch to the other battery . While we don't have refrigerator, the auotpilot uses several amps at a time when in use. We've been able to stay out for as long as a week this way Click to expand

rgranger said: Here are some more ideas and products... Highest Efficiency (up to 25.4%)And Best Flexible, Rigid, And Walkable Marine Solar Panels For Your Boat in 2023. We'll help you decide on the right solar panels to meet your power needs. Marine solar panels with best Sunpower cells, 23.7-25.4%+ efficient, A+ grade solar cells only. All info and consulting available to help you choose the ideal solar panels for your needs. Visit or call, we're more than happy to help. www.custommarineproducts.com Maintenance of Flexible Solar Panels maintenance of your flexible solar panels is easy, simply routinely keep them clean, check for structural integrity, and check the efficiency using monitoring functions in the charge regulators to ensure all is operating at optimum performance. coastalclimatecontrol.com View attachment 212460 View attachment 212461 View attachment 212462 Click to expand

rgranger said: You know.... this rabbit hole is deeeeep! We could start talking about electric outboards, LiFePO4 batteries etc. Click to expand

artleyt115 said: Yea it is, I dont plan to move to LiFEPO4 but I wanted an electric outboard originally just not too many good ones out there yet :/ Click to expand

Cruise – Electric Outboards with 6 to 25 HP – Torqeedo

rgranger said: Actually this Torqeedo Cruise is well reviewed and is equivalent to a 6 HP. My next pocket cruiser will get an upgrade to something like this... Cruise – Electric Outboards with 6 to 25 HP – Torqeedo Torqeedo Cruise outboard motors are state-of-the-art electric drive systems for boats up to 10 tons. With a respectable performance of 6 to 25 HP. www.torqeedo.com I go sailing for the silence and running an OB kind of ruins it for me. Click to expand

I'm confused by the 87w/12w rating on your fridge. You listed 288.0 WH, which is 12w * 24H. 12 watts seems too low. Let's assume 30w on average. Your inverter will draw power, even though you have N/A listed. A Victron Multiplus 2000 will draw anywhere from 3-9 watts depending on how search mode is configured. Let's assume 6 watts draw, 24 hours per day. Your depth meter is only used when sailing, not 24 hours. Call it 6 hours. Using your figures in addition to the assumptions above, I get a total of 3196.2 watts per day. A 200w panel will contribute around 800 watts per day. Figure in losses for voltage drop, battery efficiency and operating with an 80% depth of discharge, you'll need 227 AH of storage or 3 100AH batteries for 1 day away from shore power. Limit the PS4 to a couple of hours per day and you can eliminate 1 battery. But it might cause a mutiny. The numbers seem high but math is math.

mermike said: I'm confused by the 87w/12w rating on your fridge. You listed 288.0 WH, which is 12w * 24H. 12 watts seems too low. Let's assume 30w on average. Your inverter will draw power, even though you have N/A listed. A Victron Multiplus 2000 will draw anywhere from 3-9 watts depending on how search mode is configured. Let's assume 6 watts draw, 24 hours per day. Your depth meter is only used when sailing, not 24 hours. Call it 6 hours. Using your figures in addition to the assumptions above, I get a total of 3196.2 watts per day. A 200w panel will contribute around 800 watts per day. Figure in losses for voltage drop, battery efficiency and operating with an 80% depth of discharge, you'll need 227 AH of storage or 3 100AH batteries for 1 day away from shore power. Limit the PS4 to a couple of hours per day and you can eliminate 1 battery. But it might cause a mutiny. The numbers seem high but math is math. Click to expand

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Solar panels for boats: What..

Solar panels for boats: What you need to know

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Owning a boat can be expensive; you have to pay an upfront cost to purchase it, and you'll also have to spend money on maintenance and fuel charges. Solar panels may be the answer if you're looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to power your boat.

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How do solar panels work on boats?

Solar energy systems on boats work similarly to other portable , off-grid systems. There are four important components to a marine solar panel system:

Solar panels

Charge controller

Most marine solar panel systems require charge controllers to prevent the batteries from receiving more voltage than they can handle. Without charge controllers, you risk overcharging and damaging your battery.

Depending on your boat's electrical setup and the appliances you need to power, you may also need an inverter to convert direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity. Some boat electronics use DC and don't need an inverter. However, if you use everyday household appliances on your boat (i.e., TVs, microwaves, or hairdryers), they likely run on AC electricity, and you'll need an inverter.

You can buy all of these components separately, but you can find solar panel kits that include some or all of the necessary parts. Some marine solar panel kits include the wires, cables, and mounting equipment required to get your boat's solar panel system up and running.

Best solar panel kits for boats

Below are a few products tailored to off-grid marine solar power systems.

Boat solar panel options

If your solar panel kit does not include an inverter or charge controller, you must buy those components separately. Battery storage products occasionally have built-in inverters and/or charge controllers.

Should you install solar panels on your boat?

There are numerous benefits to powering your boat with solar energy. One of the most attractive benefits of marine solar power systems is the monetary savings. You'll need to invest money upfront to purchase solar equipment; however, once it's up and running, you'll generate free electricity for your boat. Alternatives to electrifying your boat, like gasoline-powered generators, require purchasing fuel on an ongoing basis. Switching to solar power can reduce these purchases while protecting you against rising fuel costs.

Another benefit of marine solar panel systems is the quietness of operation. Running a generator can be a noisy disturbance for those going out on the open water to experience nature. Powering your boat with solar allows you to enjoy peace and quiet without losing power.

Furthermore, you can also safely generate electricity and charge your battery with solar power while you're away from your boat. This isn't feasible with generators - running a generator requires manual operation and monitoring. With solar panels, you can produce usable electricity during the day and then use it for weekend boating adventures.

However, there can be obstacles to installing solar on a boat, perhaps the largest of which is available space. Ideally, your solar panels can be installed in an area with uninterrupted sunshine. Depending on your boat type, this space may be easy or difficult to come by. While you likely get a lot of sun out on the water, the area may be too small or have too many obstacles that make fitting the number of solar panels necessary to generate your electricity needs difficult.

Consider your boat's deck or canvas when you're looking for spots to install a marine solar panel system. Remember that the positioning of your solar panels will also impact the type of equipment you should purchase – you may be able to use traditional monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels if you're installing on a fixed, rigid section of your boat. However, if your only open space available isn't suitable for fixed mounting, installing lower-efficiency flexible solar panels may be a better option. Some flexible solar options have an adhesive backing, so you won't need to worry about the constraints of traditional mounting and racking materials.

How many solar panels do you need for your boat?

Unsurprisingly, a yacht has very different power requirements than a sailboat. The number of solar panels you'll need for your boat not only depends on the type and size of your boat, but also the quality of the equipment you choose, how many sun-hours the boat sees, and the amount of electricity you require. Some boats can get by with one 100-watt solar panel (or even smaller), while others need a multi-panel setup.

Calculating your electricity load is the first step in determining how many solar panels you need. Below are some common appliances you may use on your boat and what they draw for power.

How many solar panels do you need for common appliances?

The last column of the above table is the amount of energy you'll consume in watt-hours running each appliance for the number of hours identified in column three. One 100-watt solar panel that receives direct sunlight for 5 hours will produce approximately 500 Wh of electricity (5 hours x 100 W = 500 Wh). Not considering conversion losses, that's enough electricity to power a mini-fridge for 24 hours or power a boat's GPS display for 10 hours. Running all of the appliances above for everyday use will require multiple 100-watt solar panels or fewer higher-wattage panels.

Install solar to save on electric bills

You can save money by installing a marine solar panel system, but you'll save even more by installing solar on your home or business. If you want to evaluate your solar options, check out the EnergySage Solar Marketplace . You can receive up to seven custom solar quotes from local installers to compare. You can also try our solar calculator for a quick estimate of solar costs and savings on your property.

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Sizing and selecting solar controllers for Boats

Sep 18, 2020 | Tech Blog | 12 comments

by Tom Whitehead

With the rising awareness of energy use and conservation, and the expanding demand for power on both day-use recreational and offshore cruising boats, many boat builders and boat owners are turning to alternative sources of power, including solar. The development of lightweight, marine grade solar panels that can be mounted on canvas, or fully integrated into the decks has made this technology more available to all. The choice of what panels to install is often straightforward and decided by their size and where/how they can be mounted. The decision of how to wire the system and choose the best type and number of controllers is more complicated, and is influenced by several factors including – shading and panel configuration; panel voltage, current and wire runs; buck vs. boost controllers; battery type and voltage; temperature sensing capabilities and methods. You need to consider all the variants of the system to make the best choice for a controller.

The sophistication and efficiency of solar controllers has improved greatly in recent years. The MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers have essentially eclipsed the older PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) versions, offering much greater efficiency at harvesting power from the sun.

A quick summary of the differences between PWM and MPPT

The earlier designs of solar panels were made from smaller cells and cut cells put in series, resulting in voltages that were often higher than was safe for applying directly to a battery for charging. The PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) solar controllers were developed to keep voltage at a safe charging level. These controllers feed the power straight to the battery until it reaches a predetermined acceptance level. They then keep the voltage constant and safe by ‘pulsing’ the panel voltage on and off, but this results in significant losses in actual charging current to the battery.

The MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers register the optimal combination of amps and volts in any set of conditions, and then track this ‘power point’ as conditions of light intensity and air temperature change. The DC (direct current) panel output is inverted to high frequency AC (alternating current) and then converted back to DC to charge the battery. The result of this inversion/conversion process is that more amps can be delivered to the battery than were produced by the panel. These controllers are also more efficient in low light angles and soft shading conditions.

This article will focus only on MPPT controllers.

Defining electrical terms for Solar Panels

We will assume the panels have already been chosen. What information do you need about the panels to help you choose the appropriate controller? All panels are given ratings under Standard Test Conditions (STC). The STC are: 1000 watts per square meter (W/m2) of irradiance; a cell temperature of 25C(77F); and an air mass coefficient of (AM) 1.5. This is a combination of ideal conditions that will rarely occur, but nevertheless it enables important information to be provided so that cables and fuses can be sized safely. Depending on the type and number of cells in the panel (cut cell, polycrystalline, monocrystalline), each will put out different amounts of voltage and current (amperage) in varying conditions.

Each rating is defined here:

Max Power Voltage-Vmp (V) – This is the voltage that occurs when the module is connected to a load and is operating at its peak performance output under standard test conditions (STC). This is determined by the number of cells in series, their basic voltage and the temperature of the cells.
Max Power Current – Imp (A) – Maximum current the panel will produce when under load. This is dependent on the size, type and quality of the cells, and the strength and quality of the available sunlight.
Watts – The rated power of a panel under STC. This power rating is equal to the Vmp (max power voltage) X Imp (max power amps). For example, the SP 104 has a Vmp of 18.22v X Imp of 5.71a = 104 watts
Open Circuit Voltage-Voc (V) – Maximum voltage the panel produces when not connected to a load. Use Voc when calculating voltage limits for series set ups, as this is the maximum possible voltage the panel can put out – even if only for a moment.
Short Circuit Current Isc (A) – This is the current through a solar cell when the voltage across the solar cell is zero (i.e., when the solar cell is short circuited). Panels built with the same type of cell, will all have the same Isc or short circuit current.

Shading and Panel Wiring Choices

Effects of shading

Solar panels perform best in bright sunlight at solar noon with little or no shading. Most boats, either sail or power, will create some type of shade for a solar installation unless the panels are on the very top of a fly-bridge, or extremely far aft on a set of davits or a bimini.

Soft Shading, essentially shadows, will reduce the output of an individual cell if it is completely covered. Because solar panels are made up of strings of individual cells wired in series, the shaded cell or cells consume power from the non-shaded cells in the series string. Most panels have bypass diodes built into the panels to help alleviate the problem, but often the panel output is reduced by half.

Hard Shading , or when a totally opaque object covers a cell, greatly increases the losses. A hard shadow “…has the effect of knocking out a percentage of the panel’s output equal to the percentage shading of a single cell. ” (Calder, Professional Boatbuilder, #182) Hard shading can also cause the other cells in a string to back feed the covered cell, creating a hot spot, and possibly a fire, so never leave boat cushions or other similar objects on a solar panel!

Some cells are small or cut, and others larger. The panels made up of smaller cells do poorer in shade, as it is easier to completely cover the individual cells. Larger, 5 – 6” mono cells are harder to completely cover and therefore do better with soft shading.

Panel Wiring Configurations

Solar panels can be wired three different ways – Isolated, in Series or in Parallel.

Isolated – By far, the best way to manage potential shading of panels is to give each panel its own, individual solar controller. If a cell on one of the panels is shaded, it only effects the output of that panel, while the other panels continue to function independently. The drawback to this is the number of wires and controllers to install and manage.

Series – By putting panels in series you essentially create one large panel and this allows you to run a single set of wires down below to a single, larger controller. This is only recommended when the risk of shading is nonexistent or very low, and wire runs need to be minimized. Only panels with identical cells of equal amperage can be put in series. Remember the result of putting panels in series is that the voltage of each panel is added together, but the amperage stays the same. This information is important when choosing a controller. For example: Three SR 160 watt panels in series each have a Vmp of 18.6v, but a Voc of 23v. If they are put in series, the controller needs to be rated for at least 23v x 3 = 69v, not 3 x 18.6 = 55.8v. Also, the total wattage is now 480 watts. However, the Imp 8.6a and the Isc 9a, stays the same. The downside of large series systems is the high DC voltage. Even though the wires size can be relatively small, some builders and boat owners are not comfortable with 60 – 80 volts, DC running through the boat.

Parallel – Panels are sometimes wired in parallel to avoid increasing voltage and to minimize wire runs. In this situation, blocking diodes must be installed between the panels to prevent a higher producing (non-shaded) panel from back feeding a lower producing (shaded) one. These blocking diodes also create a voltage drop of approximately 0.7v. Only identical panels with the same voltage should be put in parallel. The result of paralleling panels is that the voltage stays the same, but the amperage is multiplied. For example, using the same three SR 160 panels mentioned above, The Vmp and Voc would stay the same but the amperage would be three times that of a single panel, or Imp 8.6a X 3 = 25.8a, total Imp. This higher amperage creates the need for larger cables to run from the panels to the controllers, and if the run is long, it could be a deterrent to this type of configuration.

Panel Voltage and Current

Buck vs. Boost

As noted above the total voltage and current ratings of panels combined in either series or parallel or even series/parallel combinations vary based on the wiring configuration. All solar controllers are rated to handle differing amounts of voltage, amperage and total watts. Most controllers bring voltage down to the acceptable charge level (Buck controller), but some raise voltage up (Boost controller).

With the advent of mono crystalline panels, using large cells in small configurations, it is now more common to have a panel that produces less than 12v, but with greater amounts of current. In fact, most of the more popular panel sizes under 100 watts produce less than the required charging voltage of a 12v battery (13.8v – 14.4v volts). Therefore, it is important to determine whether the output voltage of the panel (or panels) will be greater or less than battery voltage. If the max power voltage (VMP) is equal to or less than battery voltage, you need a boost controller. If the voltage is greater than battery voltage, you need a buck controller. At this time, only Genasun and Western make boost controllers. (Western also makes a versatile controller, the WM 10, that will do either buck or boost.) If the panel voltage is over the battery charge voltage of 14.4v, you need a buck controller.

Total Voltage & Watts

Once you have determined whether you need a ‘buck’ or ‘boost’ controller, you next need to compare the total wattage, voltage and amperage ratings of the panel or panels with the ratings of the controller. For example: The SR+78 watt panel at 9.6v Vmp requires a boost controller and the Genasun GVB-8-12-Pb has a max panel power rating of 105w. 78 watts is well within the 105 watt rating so you are good to go. The Voc of this panel is only 11.7v, and the controller is rated up to 63v. Finally, if the panel is operating at its maximum power (Vmp) at 9.6v it would be producing 8.1a. The max input current of the GV-B is rated at 8a, but we know from the manufacturer that max current up to 9a is fine.

Now let’s look at a ‘buck’ controller situation. The chosen panel is an SR+ 175 watt, with a Vmp of 21.6v. A Genasun GV-10 has a limit for max panel voltage (Vmp) of 34v, so it looks promising; but the rated watts limit is only 140w, and max output current is only 10.5a, so we need to move to a larger controller such as the Victron 75/15 which has a rating of 200 watts, max panel Voc of 75v and a max output current of 15a. One point of confusion is the difference between the rated current out put of the panel, and the max current output of the controller. Remembering that the MPPT controllers can actually produce more current than the panel itself. In this case, the SR+ 175 has a Vmp of 21.6v. Since Amps = Watts/Volts — 175/21.6 = 8.1a. So one might think that this panel is OK for the GV 10 since the Voc is fine and it outputs 8.1a. However, the controller is rated for Max Power Output, and If you divide 175 watts by the battery voltage of 12v you get 14.5a. This output current exceeds the 10.5a rating of the controller. It is always important to check the total wattage rating of the controller, as this usually will guide you correctly.

When putting panels either in series or parallel, remember to not only add the wattage, but check the total Voc of the panels when in series, and the total Imp of the panels when in parallel. Suppose we decide to put four SR 108 panels in series on the top of a flybridge where there is no shading. Total wattage – 432w; total Voc – 61.2v; panel output current is 8.6a; but maximum current to a 12v battery bank is (432/12= 36a .) You might think the Victron 100/30 would work as the wattage rating is 440w, the max panel Voc is 100v, BUT- the max output current is only 30a, slightly less than the 36a you need. Most panels will never quite reach their peak performance, so the 30a might be close enough, but to be safe you need to move up to the 100/50 with the 50a rating.

Putting those same panels in parallel, the total wattage is still 432w, the Voc is now only 15.3v, but the panel current is now 34.4a. (The panel current has a direct effect on the wire size running from the panels to the controller, and for this parallel set up this wire will need to be a much larger diameter, depending on the distance there and back.) The wattage of the parallel set up should still be the primary guide, but again, the power output to a 12v battery system is larger than 30 amps, so always check the max output amps of the controller as well.

Minimum panel voltage

Controllers have a minimum voltage to turn on. This important rating is often overlooked. With the advent of monocrystalline, lower voltage panels, it is important to check for all buck controllers to ensure the panel V is high enough. Even boost controllers have a minimum amount of voltage needed to turn on, so check the fine print! A GV-10 requires 2V over battery voltage (14v) to function; the Blue Sky only needs 0.2v over battery voltage; the Western requires 2.5v over battery voltage and the Victron needs 5v over battery voltage.

Battery Voltage & Type

Not all battery systems are 12v! Many larger boats are moving to 24v systems, and for electric propulsion, there is a wide range of voltages from 36v, 48v and on up. Make sure of the voltage of the battery bank that you are going to charge.

Battery Type

The days of flooded lead acid being the only battery type on a boat are long gone. The various types of lead batteries can include – Flooded, Gel, AGM (several variations), TPPL(thin plate, pure lead), Carbon Foam (Firefly), Lead Crystal, etc.,etc. Then there are the increasing Lithium-ion based chemistries.

All of these various types and manufacturers can require different charge parameters. When picking a solar controller for a specific battery type, make sure of what the charge parameters are, and if the stock settings do not suit your battery bank, you will need to find a controller that is fully programmable for the specific needs of your battery chemistry and construction.

Location/Temperature Compensation

Most solar controllers use a form of temperature compensation to moderate the target charge voltages based on battery temperature. A cold battery can be safely charged at a significantly higher voltage than a warm battery. Most published charging voltages are for a standard temp of 77 F. The various controllers get temperature information in different ways. Some, like the Genasun and original Victron use internal temperature sensing. This means that they need to be positioned within 12” of the batteries to sense the ambient temperature, or at least be in a compartment that has the same temperature as the battery compartment. Others like the Blue Sky and the Western use a wire that runs from the battery post to the controller. The newer, “Smart” Victron controllers now use Bluetooth to both send and receive temp and voltage information. They also allow you to view their performance with an app that you can download to your smartphone, tablet or laptop computer. The simpler controllers either have LED indicator lights to let you know what they are doing or a small readout screen. What ever controller you choose, it is important to decide where it will be located for viewing or not, and how it gathers the temperature information it needs.

When installing solar panels, you need to estimate the amount of shading. This determines how multiple panels will be wired – either isolated, in series or in parallel. This defines the system voltage and whether you need a buck or a boost controller. The panel configuration determines the total wattage, voltage and power output that need to be matched to the controller’s ratings. You also need to consider the battery voltage and the type of battery chemistry and charge parameters. Finally, remember the need for temperature compensation, and if/how the controller needs to be read or monitored.

12 Comments

Great article and very helpful. One question I often see is when connecting multiple controllers to a battery bank for example in an isolated configuration. Each controller has a battery sense feature of some sort. How does one deal with a situation where one controller is sensing the voltage output of another controller? Battery sense is what determines output in a controller so if one controller is in bulk charge mode could not another controller be fooled into reducing its potential output?

Good question. The controllers feed the battery with current to raise the voltage up to the various targets. (example: Bulk/Absorp 14.4v, Float 13.4v) Since all the separate controllers are measuring the voltage of the battery, they will react the same. The controllers should all be set to the same target voltages, and should function the same throughout the day. When the battery reaches 14.4v, all controllers will move to absorption if there is no voltage drop in the cable; when the absorption period is done the controllers will then hold the battery at 13.4v for the duration of the float.

Based on the photo – you have nine solar feeds coming in. What is the best cable gland or other pathway to get the solar panel cables into the boat without tuning the deck into swiss cheese or cable gland acne?

This is a valid question, and a lot depends on the layout of the panels and whether they are run through the deck with backside wiring, or through a variety of deck glands. There are now glands that hold up to six wires in an oblong shape that can be used. In some cases, the panels can either be put in series or parallel to reduce the number of controllers and wires that need to go through the deck.

Sooo for a single G31 Carbon Foam Firefly system running DC refrigeration compressor and occasional bumps of a water pump, LED lighting modest electronics charging, that is occasionally being charged from an alternator, getting boosted and maintained by a converter charger , and kept steady by a solar feed, which is better controller an MPPT or PWM

Whatever the situation, the MPPT controller is always superior. It will harvest more power from the panel and with great efficiency.

Great article. Thank you. I see a breaker for an on/ off switch. The breaker has a Battery side and an Aux side. Does one connect the breaker to the fuse box with the post marked Batt since that is direction the current is coming from?

Hi Thomas, You can use either side of the breaker. It is simply “in line” between the parallel outputs of the controllers and the battery. It can function in either direction. It should be mounted within 7” of the battery, since it is there to protect the wire between the battery and the solar controllers.

Fantastic information. it has helped me a lot. If I may ask. I am installing two 455 wat panels on my fully enclosed flybridge and I will have two MPPT Controllers. Where would be the best place to locate the controllers x two. The engine room is about 5.5mtr away from the panels and it gets rather hot in there. The batteries are also located there. I have what appears to me to be the ideal spot under one of the seats in the flybridge, which is well ventilated and dry. Your thoughts would be much appreciated. Regards Steve

Hi Steve – If you are using a controller like the Victron MPPT that uses a remote Bluetooth sensor to monitor voltage and temperature, you can mount the controllers anywhere on the boat between the output of the panels and the batteries or charge bus. Since the controllers sometimes shed heat, it is NOT a good idea to put them into a hot environment, UNLESS that is the only way that they gather the temp information they need to do temp compensation during charging. Generally, it is a bad idea to have batteries in the engine compartment, as every degree above 72deg. F that a battery must live in takes cycles away from their lifespan. Make sure that the controllers you use have a temperature compensation feature and that they can accurately measure the battery temp.

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The Best Solar Panels for Boats of 2024

Solar panels are a great way to give your boat energy and power. If you like taking long rides on motorized watercraft, having solar panels can reduce your energy costs. They also make sure that the boat is efficient and never runs out of power in an emergency. There are multiple options for solar panels available, which can make the market search even more confusing. To help you find a suitable pick, we have shortlisted and keenly reviewed our favorite solar panels for boats in 2024.

A top-quality product not only lasts long but also delivers efficient results. This is why it is essential to invest your money in high-end solar panels. All our products are selected based on their overall performance and ability to deliver high-end results.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Renogy Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Most Lightweight Design: Rophie Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Premium Kit: TopSolar Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Best Backup Kit: ECO-WORTHY Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Simple Installation: Sunway Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
Premier Foldable Panel: EF ECOFLOW Solar Panels for Boats Shop Now ➔
1 What to Consider When Buying Solar Panels?
2 Size
3 Type
4 Accessories
5 How Do Solar Panels for Boats Work?
6 Installation
7 What Are Care Requirements to Enhance the Life of Solar Panels for Boats?
9 Cleaning
10 What Are the Properties of Charge Controllers for Solar Panels for Boats?
11 Basic charge controllers
12 Mid-range charge controllers
13 Max power charge controllers
14 Conclusion

Can solar panels for boats run a trolling boat motor?

How long does it take for a solar panel to charge your boat’s battery, why do people consider installing solar panels for boats, the best solar panels for boats, best overall.

Renogy Solar Panels for Boats

The Renogy are 100W monocrystalline solar panels providing an average of 400-500Wh or 33-41Ah of electricity per day, so you have reliable performance. It has bypass diodes that protect the solar cells from overheating, so you don’t have to worry about maintenance. In addition, it features a corrosion-resistant aluminum train providing extended outdoor use without any extra damage.

These solar panels come with pre-drilled holes on the back so that you can install and mount them without spending money on professional help. They measure 42.2 x 19.6 x 1.38 inches and weigh 14.3 pounds, making them lightweight and convenient. Moreover, you can install them on boats, rooftops, cabins, and more for multifunctional use. Because of their efficiency and reliability, these solar panels stand at the top of our list.

They are weather-resistant
These solar panels maintain cell temperature
Provide reliable performance
Only compatible with Renogy ground mounts and brackets

Most Lightweight Design

Rophie Solar Panels for Boats

The Rophie Solar Panels easily stands out on this list. Designed with impeccable efficiency, they accelerate solar charging to the next level, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and off-grid boat owners. These solar panels convert sunlight into power rapidly, while their ultra-light, foldable design ensures convenience during transport and installation. Don’t let their light weight fool you, though, as they pack an impressive 200 watts, delivering unmatched power performance for your boat or outdoor camping.

These panels don’t just excel in efficiency and power; they’re also built to endure. Their IP67 waterproof grading ensures that they remain operational even under challenging weather conditions. Their high-quality MC-4 connectors further optimize power transfer while ensuring safe and secure connections. Plus, their compact design won’t take up much space, proving to be the optimal choice for boat owners who value both power and convenience.

Lightweight and easily transportable
Durable and water-resistant
High-performance with 200W
Can be a little pricey

Premium Kit

TopSolar Solar Panels for Boats

The TopSolar Solar Panels are available in a kit containing 20W solar panels, a solar charger regulator of 12V/24V, two 6.5-foot cables with alligator clips, and an O-ring terminal to have a complete experience while on the go. They are perfect for off-grid 12-volt battery charging systems providing you with various DC applications like cabins, boats, battery-operated gates, and more. They come with a 10A solar charger controller preventing the battery from overcharging, discharging, and risk of short circuit for a safe experience.

These solar panels have aluminum and tempered glass frames, ensuring a durable and weather-resistant use. Weighing 2.75 pounds and measuring 2.32 x 13.86 x 17.13 inches, they are compact and portable.

Easy to store and carry
They come in a complete kit
Provide excellent weather resistance
Not suitable for large areas and machinery

Best Backup Kit

ECO-WORTHY Solar Panels for Boats

The Eco-Worthy Solar Panels are 10W 12V solar car battery chargers that can be used to recharge boats, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, and tractors. They feature a cigarette plug option supplying you with constant power when needed. This kit includes a cigarette lighter adapter, one pair of battery clips, and four-piece PVC suckers ensuring maximum results in no time.

They also have energy-saving, built-in blocking diodes that prevent reverse discharge from maintaining and extending battery life for maximum durability. It measures 1.4 x 9.6 x 15.3 inches and weighs only 1.5 pounds, so you have a compact product at hand

They are available in a complete kit
These panels are lightweight and compact
They can recharge different types of vehicles
Only designed for vehicles

Simple Installation

Sunway Solar Panels for Boats

The Sunway Solar Panels are battery charger panel mounts that require a simple installation on any windshield or dash, giving you a quick and convenient experience. They come with 12-volt batteries and a maintainer that protect your panels from overheating and discharging, ensuring safe and convenient use. In addition, these panels are equipped with ultra-clear PC glass, so you have a strong and durable product.

They contain built-in blocking diodes that prevent reverse charging allowing your battery to maintain its useful life. Moreover, they also come with a blinking LED charge indicator that lets you know when the job is done.

Comes with a battery maintainer
Do not require professional installation
Comes with charging indicators
Suitable to recharge small batteries only

Premier Foldable Panel

EF ECOFLOW Solar Panels for Boats

The EF Ecoflow provides 160W solar portable and foldable solar panels, delivering a compact and easy-to-carry experience. They are designed to produce maximum power at any time of the day when paired with an EcoFlow power station, so you never run out of electricity. Moreover, they have a seamless one-piece waterproof design, so you can use them during outdoor activities like camping and hiking.

These solar panels are also equipped with protection during transportation, enabling you to carry them without any concerns. Each pack comes with an Ecoflow 160W solar panel, kickstand case, user manual, and warranty card, so you don’t have to make any additional purchases.

They can be folded for easy storage
Comes in a complete kit
Suitable for different outdoor activities
Can only be paired with an Ecoflow power station

Solar Panels for Boats Buying Guide

We have compiled a detailed buying guide to help you pick a suitable product. It will give you an idea about your requirements for solar panels for boats.

What to Consider When Buying Solar Panels?

Since solar panels are an expensive addition to your asset list, here are a couple of essentials to remember when purchasing.

The size of panels is directly related to the size of your boat. You must get something to match the energy requirements of your boat or greater. A solar panel too small might not power it and leave you frustrated. Other than this, smaller products have less battery time which means they will turn off much quicker than something explicitly designed for the size of your boat.

From PVC to glass covering and fully flexible panels, the type you choose determines their cost. This helps you establish your budget according to your needs. A glass-fronted solar panel is among the most budget-friendly options, but they are not as weather resistant. Besides this, a polycarbonate version is more expensive, but they are incredibly weather resistant and have a longer life.

Accessories

A charge controller or maintainer is an essential component available for your boat’s solar panels. This product protects your panels from battery damage. They prevent any risk of overheating, battery discharge, or sudden drops. A charge controller is essential if you want to elongate the battery’s life. Most brands also offer mount brackets, so you don’t have to purchase them separately.

How Do Solar Panels for Boats Work?

Solar panels for boats work just like any other portable energy provider. To install it successfully, you must have four components: the solar panel itself, charge controller, inverter, and battery. When solar panels in the boat hit sunlight, they convert it into the electrical current, supplying your boat with the required energy.

Boat solar panels can work without a charger maintainer (controller), but there is a risk of overcharging your device. Therefore, you must keep it in place to avoid any risk of battery damage.

The need for an inverter depends on the number of appliances that need a charge. For instance, if you wish to charge multiple devices other than the boat, consider buying a large-capacity product.

You can opt for professional installation if offered by the brand or any other reputed company. But individuals who have the basics can do it all by themselves. However, you must make sure that all the relevant accessories are available at your convenience.

Installation

The installation method is divided into three main stages. The first stage is to conduct an energy assessment. In this, you will determine the level of energy that your boat needs to function. Buy a panel that has a higher voltage than your requirements. This gives more room and flexibility to charge other devices.

Check whether the solar panel can produce that level of energy. Once the capacity is determined, you can decide the exterior of your panels. In most cases, you choose between glass-fronted, polycarbonate, and fully flexible panels.

What Are Care Requirements to Enhance the Life of Solar Panels for Boats?

Caring for solar panels is essential as they are a long-term investment and should last accordingly.

Most solar panels are designed to last two to three decades. Caring for them is fairly simple but requires regular attention. All you have to do is keep them clean from dirt, leaves, and other obstructions. Solar panels from reputable brands always come with a warranty for a couple of years.

Always get a professional repair from the brand in case of any damage. Even if your warranty has expired, we recommend taking your boat’s solar panels to a professional. They might cost a bit more than a local mechanic, but your panels get the treatment they require.

Another factor to consider here is the useful life of your solar panel. This indicates that they will not be as effective as they age. The depreciation in their quality is slow and gradual.

If your product has met the end of its useful life, it won’t stop working but will get more prone to damage. So instead of getting frustrated with why your solar panel for boats isn’t working properly, consider getting a replacement from the same brand or changing your product.

Cleaning

To clean a solar panel, use lukewarm water with a mild, non-acidic detergent and apply water pressure to remove any visible dirt and debris. Panels for boats are relatively smaller, so you won’t need a lot of supply. Clean any unwanted spots with a damp cloth and leave it to dry. Avoid applying water pressure on smaller models as they might not sustain the burden.

What Are the Properties of Charge Controllers for Solar Panels for Boats?

Charge controllers are an essential component. They help protect your panels’ battery from damage. There are three main types of charge controllers available.

Basic charge controllers

They use pulse width modulation to encode transmission information allowing control of the power supplied to boats or other devices. These are simple chargers that come in at an affordable price range. A primary charge controller is designed to control batteries of smaller solar panels. They might not deliver desirable results if connected with a high-capacity panel.

Mid-range charge controllers

These controllers also use pulse width modulation but feature an LCD display to indicate current charging levels. This helps the user keep track of the system and unplug the device when it’s ready to use.

Max power charge controllers

Designed for high-end and powerful solar panels, they are one of the most expensive charge controllers. You should only attach them to devices recommended by the brand itself. They also maximize the performance of panels.

Conclusion

Solar panels are a great way to maximize energy efficiency in your boat and create a durable backup. They are available in different sizes and capacities, so you can find a suitable fit for your boat. This article carefully reviewed the most in-demand solar panels for boats in 2023 that can make a difference in your overall experience. Besides the panel, you should also grab a top-notch charge controller that protects the device from damage and enhances its life.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. The SAIL Magazine editorial staff is not involved in the creation of this content. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The SAIL Review Team is composed of authors, editors, and sailors. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

6 Awesome Solar Boats for Eco Sailing in 2024 (Guide)

Liza pivoted from environmental consulting and doing impact assessments to writing about her two most counter-intuitive but passionate interests: sustainability and the importance of living an eco-conscious life; and marketing, martech, and AI. When she’s not writing, you can find her living a zero-waste-adjacent life in South Africa, falling down research rabbit holes on the internet, or out hiking with her dogs.

Introduction

Liza Shuttleworth pivoted from a career in environmental impact assessment and consulting to becoming a full-time writer, focusing on her most passionate (and diverse) interests: ecological conservation, sustainability, waste management and marketing, mar-tech, and AI.

Her professional portfolio reflects a diverse array of writing and consultancy roles spanning environmental science, marketing, and technology.

She has written for prestigious online and print publications on topics that include sustainability, climate change advocacy, waste management, and marine conservation, as well as marketing strategy, mar-tech, and the proliferation of AI tools for marketing.

Liza has an extensive professional background, having held management and consultancy positions within the environmental science, waste management, technology, and marketing sectors.

Her writing and editorial positions for both print and online publications have shaped content in ways that educate and inspire readers about sustainable living, climate change, and the power of innovative technology to overcome challenges in any setting.

Liza's academic background is rooted in a Bachelor of Social Science, focusing on Media and English. Beyond this, she has pursued tertiary qualifications in geography, psychology, and marketing, further enriching her knowledge base and contributing to her multi-faceted approach to writing and advocacy.

Solar boats are becoming a hugely popular choice for eco-friendly sailing. They’re quiet, can sail great distances without needing to stop for fuel, produce no carbon emissions, and do not rely on fossil fuels.

The popularity of solar-powered boats represents an evolution in marine transportation in favor of renewable energy and sustainability. Solar-powered boats provide a window into a future where clean, emission-free transport is not only possible but also preferred, due to developments in solar technology and design.

Solar boats are the ultimate of innovation and environmental responsibility, whether they are being used for peaceful journeys along beautiful canals or for bold ocean expeditions.

We reduce our dependency on scarce fossil fuels and lessen the ecological effect of traditional boating techniques by using the sun’s power to move us over the sea. Solar boats have the potential to completely transform the maritime sector and open the door to a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future for all, especially as the demand for eco-friendly alternatives keeps rising.

So, how do solar boats work? What are the benefits? And what are the best solar boats on the market?

In this guide, we explain how solar boats function, the advantages of using them, and six impressive solar boats you can purchase in 2024.

Let’s dive right in!

Table of Contents

How Do Solar Boats Work?

In recent years, solar panel and rechargeable battery technology have improved dramatically. Panels are lighter, stronger, and more efficient.

Batteries are more compact, more efficient, and weigh considerably less than they did in the past. Both batteries and panels now last longer and cost less than they used to.

These advances in technology and a growing interest in eco-friendly sailing have shifted the development of solar yachts from idealists’ dreams to the mainstream.

So, how exactly do solar boats work?

Solar boats use solar energy to power their motors, navigation systems, and onboard electronics, and appliances.

The solar system works much the same as a solar system on a house or RV , with some structural differences to meet the unique demands and challenges of a marine environment.

Solar panels mounted on the boat harvest solar power from the sun and send it to a charge controller , which controls the flow of electricity to a bank of rechargeable (usually lithium-ion) batteries.

From the batteries, power is sent to the electric motors, navigation systems and appliances via an inverter, which converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Most appliances like kettles, microwaves, and hair dryers use AC.

Solar Boats - Screenshot from Instagram of a yacht with solar panels on the roof

A solar system can be added to any boat, making it a hybrid or even just to supplement a little power using a renewable resource.

S olar is a great way to reduce your carbon emissions, reduce your fuel costs and increase the distance you can sail without stopping to refuel .

However, if you’re looking to buy a solar boat that is designed and built specifically for solar sailing, there are some really great options to consider.

What are the Benefits of Using a Solar Powered Boat?

When it comes to solar boats, there are some great benefits and they’re not limited to renewable energy and fewer carbon emissions:

No reliance on fuel – diesel generators can be used as an emergency back up but they’re not needed for everyday sailing or electricity generation.
Unlimited range: when batteries are constantly recharged by the sun, there is no need to stop to refuel and you can keep going indefinitely.
No noise and no fumes: as there is no engine, there is no noise and no diesel fumes. This makes the experience of sailing a solar boat much more peaceful.
No pollution: on a solar boat, there is no engine producing noise pollution, no carbon or greenhouse gas emissions , and no risk of fuel or oil spills.
More space: the absence of engines frees up a lot of space. Electric motors and batteries can be housed anywhere on the boat and do not take up as much space as engines and machinery, which means room for more storage compartments to keep your gear or equipment.
Lower running costs: beyond the initial investment and occasional maintenance, solar is completely free. This cuts out fuel costs and ongoing engine maintenance costs.
Less maintenance: solar panels need to be cleaned regularly to be most effective but that is the only ongoing maintenance needed. Once a good solar system is installed, it generally needs very little maintenance.
No limitations on electrical use: with solar, the supply is free and if you’re not pushing the motors to travel at speed you will often have more electricity than you need. This means you don’t need to watch your power consumption and you can run your air conditioning as much as you want!
Options to sell power back to shore stations: if you regularly generate more power than you need from your solar, you can share it with others or sell it back to the grid at some shore stations.

The benefits you will enjoy from a solar boat vary, depending on your location and the specifications of the boat you choose. There are also some downsides, for example, solar boats are generally slower and the initial investment is quite high.

That said, solar boats are well worth the investment!

So, let’s look at some of the awesome solar boats available on the market in 2024:

6 Awesome Solar Boats

There are many great solar-powered boats to choose from and we have selected six of the best to feature here. We have chosen a range of sizes, styles, and price points so there should be something for everyone on this list!

1. Silent Yachts – Silent 55

The Silent 55 by Silent Yachts is one of their smaller solar yachts and can be handled by two people, with or without any additional crew.

It is spacious, and beautifully designed to be as economical as possible without losing any of the luxuries of their larger boats. With three to six cabins and all the amenities you can imagine, it offers everything you need to live on board permanently.

Check out this video by Kara and Nate to see their experience of the Silent 55 and meet the couple behind the iconic Silent Yachts company:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIte4FNI0U0[/embedyt]

Where to Buy: Silent Yachts

Price: From €1.97 Mio.

2. Serenity Yachts – Serenity 64

The Serenity 64 is a solar-powered hybrid yacht with a diesel engine. It can run on either, giving it a combination of unlimited range using solar or faster cruising using diesel.

It is a spacious and luxurious yacht, with plenty of living space and four cabins with en suite bathrooms. The Serenity is the smaller of the two solar-powered boats offered by Serenity. The Serenity 74 is bigger and more luxurious, with an interior designed by Neiman Marcus Fashion Director Ken Downing.

Take a look at this video by Serenity Yachts to see more of the Serenity 64:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltyu-KPesg0[/embedyt]

Where to Buy: Serenity Yachts

Price: From $3.3 million

3. Sunreef Yachts – Eco 80 Sail Catamaran

Sunreef Yachts Eco sail catamarans take eco-friendly sailing to new heights. Their luxury solar yachts use a special ‘solar skin’ that covers any composite structure on the yacht to provide solar power from every angle.

They also use hydro and wind power to supplement the solar and have a sail. The green power generated on their innovative solar boats is enough to propel the boat, run all the onboard appliances and charge the electric water toys.

Taking their commitment to the environment up a notch, they use recycled and reclaimed materials, non-toxic paints, and natural fibers.

Check out the video below by SUNREEF YACHTS OFFICIAL on a day aboard the Sunreef 80 Eco Catamaran:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXFg1R1qcgI[/embedyt]

Where to Buy: Sunreef Yachts Eco

Price: Price on Request (depends on the custom specifications)

4. Soel Yachts – Soel Senses 48

The Soel Senses 48 is a 48ft solar electric catamaran. It was designed to be solar-powered and is slender and lightweight to make it more economical.

There are two sleeping berths for two people each, and another four people can sleep in the salon. The interior and the exterior are both sleek and modern.

Everything on the Soel Senses 48 has been designed thoughtfully to make it as comfortable and functional as possible. It is faster than other solar yachts, due to its smaller size and innovative design.

Check out this video by Jim Waltz to see a little more of the Soel Senses 48:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5IOCWPwGXY[/embedyt]

Where to Buy: Soel Yachts

5. Azura Marine – Aquanima 40

The Aquanima by Azura Marine is powered entirely solar and features some innovative adaptations that make it even more economical and eco-friendly. For example, rainwater collection from the solar panels on the roof and the fact that excess solar can be sold back to shore stations.

The Aquanima is beautifully designed and the interior is clean and modern. It has two double guest cabins and two single crew cabins. It is one of the most cost-effective options if you’re looking for a purely solar-powered boat.

Take a look at this video by Azura Marine to see the Aquanima in action:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X25IRdHoHqI[/embedyt]

Where to Buy: Azura Marine

Price: From €523,000

6. Silent Yachts – Silent 80 Tri-Deck Solar Catamaran

The Silent 80 Tri-Deck Solar Catamaran is a superyacht that is completely customizable. It offers huge amounts of space, with three decks that can be customized to suit the owner’s needs.

The top deck can be open or enclosed and can be used as additional living space or a luxury master suite, opening onto a private outdoor space. Both open and closed versions include four to six customizable cabins.

As a solar-powered yacht, it has more space where the engines would normally be and that storage space can be used to house water toys and additional recreational equipment.

Check out this video by Yachts For Sale to see more on the Silent 80 Tri-Deck Catamaran, how it is built and what sets it apart:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCZMzE5Q8lc[/embedyt]

Price: From €5.51 Mio.

Final Thoughts on Solar Boats

As solar and battery technology has improved, and boat owners have become more conscious of their environmental impact, solar boats have become both more viable and more desirable.

Modern solar boats, from small solar-powered yachts to solar superyachts, are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to make them economical, easy to maintain, and a pleasure to use.

They’re also becoming increasingly affordable, and we hope, will be a mainstream option available to every eco-conscious sailor soon!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does a solar boat work.

Solar boats use renewable energy from the sun to run their motors, electrical systems, and onboard appliances. They do not use petrol/diesel generators or engines and meet all their power needs using solar panels and batteries. Read the full guide for more details on how a solar boat works.

What are solar boats used for?

Solar boats are used for any boating purpose but they’re most frequently used for recreational sailing, such as yachts and catamarans, as ferries and tour boats, or as houseboats. Solar boats are generally slower and less powerful than fuel-powered boats. In situations where speed is needed, solar is usually supplemented with wind-sail or fuel-driven motors. Read the full guide for more on solar boats.

What is a solar yacht?

A solar yacht is a yacht that uses solar energy to power its electric motors and all the electronic equipment on board. Solar yachts do not rely on diesel or petrol engines and run solely on solar power. They do sometimes have other power sources, like backup diesel generators or engines. Read the full guide for more on solar yachts.

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Solar Sailing: How to Power a Boat with Portable Solar Panels and Generator

Owing to advancements in marine technology, the boats we have nowadays are more dependent on electronic systems than ever before. Naturally, this means that boats require a lot of electricity to power these electronics. Normally, boat owners use the power from their engines to charge their batteries and power the electricals in their boats, turning their boats into gas guzzlers.

However, with portable solar generators and a portable solar panel for boats, you can enjoy a more reliable and potent energy source for your boat that will make your sailing not only more eco-friendly, but also much more economical in the long run. So join us as we explore how can you power a boat with solar portable generators and panels!

Why Do Boats Need Electrical Energy?

Sailing in the vast open seas can be a fun and thrilling adventure. However, it can also turn dangerous and forbidding pretty quickly as winds pick up momentum and the seas become rough. In a nutshell, art of sailing is one that is accompanied by many uncertainties. That is why; boats have dedicated safety features to make sailing safer.

In addition to this, boats are also often equipped with appliances and tech that make your sea adventure more fun and enjoyable. Needless to say, all these systems and devices require electrical energy to function.

The Problem with the Traditional Way to Power Boats

Originally, the engine of the boat was, and is still, used to generate the required energy needed to power the systems and technology commonly found in boats.

According to the old conventional ways, the engine of the boat would be hooked up to a marine battery and when turned on, some portion of the power generated by the engine would get converted into electricity and stored in the battery. This electricity would then be used to power the electrical systems onboard the boat.

The problem with this approach is that it demands a lot of work from your boat’s engine since it not only has to drive the boat, but also power the electrical systems and appliances on your sea cruiser. More work for the engine essentially translates to a higher fuel consumption and hence, higher fuel costs for you to bear each time you take your boat out for a spin.

And with time, as the number of electrical devices on boats keeps increasing, the power required from the engine does too. This means that your boat will become an even more of a gas guzzler than it already is, as you add more and more tech to it.

How Can You Power a Boat with Solar Portable Generator and Portable Solar Panels

Powering your boat using portable solar panels and a solar power generator for boats is actually quite easy. A portable solar generator is essentially a complete energy generation and storage unit having its own dedicated inverter, charge controller, and battery management system.

Or, you could simply think of it as a portable battery storage system that can be charged by a portable solar panel for boats. The system boasts a boxed, compact and portable form factor allowing you to easily place it anywhere in your boat.

So how do you power your boat with it? To fully explain the system and how to use it, let’s start from the top. First you need to find a suitable place on your boat to store the solar generator system; it should be someplace where the system does not get exposed to the water or other elements.

You then connect the system to your portable solar panel for boats which can be set up on the roof of your boat or anywhere that receives a good amount of sunlight. When this is done, the solar panels will start generating electrical energy which will be directed to the battery of your solar generator.

But before the electricity reaches the battery for storage, it must pass through the charge controller and battery management system. The variation in the intensity of sunlight reaching your solar panels can cause its electrical output to fluctuate. This fluctuation can potentially damage the battery and other components of the portable solar generator.

Therefore, the charge controller and battery management system regulate the incoming voltage to smooth out the fluctuations and protect the solar power generator for boats from any such damages. In addition, the aforementioned systems also regulate the amount of current and voltage entering as well as exiting the battery of your portable generator system. This is done to prevent the battery from overcharging and over-discharging.

Once the electrical energy passes through the charge controller and battery management system, it arrives at the battery where it gets stored for later use. Now, all you have to do is press the power button once to turn on the system, plug the electrical devices you want to power into the correct outlet ports and that is it!

It’s important to determine the correct outlet port because a portable solar generator has multiple outlets some of which supply DC electricity while the others supply AC electricity. So, make sure to plug in your DC devices into DC outlets and AC devices into AC outlets. Don’t worry; they should be clearly labeled. Batteries can only store DC energy, which is why an inverter is used to convert the DC energy to AC before channeling it to the AC outlets.

Common Boat Devices You Can Power Using Portable Solar Generators and a Portable Solar Panel for Boats

portable solar panel for boat, Can you power a boat with solar, solar power generator for boat, small boat solar panel kit, portable solar panel, portable solar panels

Navigation Lights

Navigation lights are a vital safety measure and almost all boat owners are legally obligated to have them installed on their boats if they don’t have them already. These lights aid all boats in navigating the waters after sundown, between dusk and dawn, as well as during bad weather conditions like rain and fog when the visibility is extremely poor.

With the help of these lights, boats can navigate more safely and spot the give-way vessel, thereby avoiding any collisions at sea. The navigation lights required for a boat vary depending on certain factors associated with the boat. These factors are:

The size of your boat.
If your boat relies on an engine or sails.
Whether or not your boat is anchored.
Whether your boat is in inland or international seas

On Board Powered Radio Systems

Powered radios are yet another key safety device that is mandatory on all commercial boats, cruise liners, and recreational boats that are over 65.5 feet in length. Having a powered radio system on your boat enables rapid communication between your boat and other boats, bridges, marinas, and the United States Coast Guard.

As such, you can use the radio to call for assistance, request weather forecasts and updates, and much more. Knowing this, it would be wise to have a radio system on your private boat even if you aren’t legally required to. You can easily plug in the radio system to your Bluetti solar power generator for boats and enjoy reliable communication and assistance from other sailors at sea.

Autopilot Systems

Sea adventures can be very exciting and thrilling and serve as the perfect getaway from your hectic city life routine. Breathing in that fresh salty air of the open seas has its own unique way of relaxing the body and mind. However, having to continuously stand at the helm grows tiring and can take away from the soothing experience you were hoping to achieve at sea.

Fortunately, modern boats come with autopilot systems that do an excellent job of maintaining the preset course of your boat with very few helm movements in light to moderate weather. These systems enjoy the benefit of having an endless attention span and don't get weary as their human counterparts do.

In addition, they steer extremely precisely, will save fuel and get you to your destination faster, especially when integrated with a GPS, all the while allowing you to sit back and enjoy the cool salty breeze of the sea. Using a portable solar generator paired with a portable solar panel for boats, you can easily power this electrical feature and enjoy a fun relaxing adventure at the sea.

Marine Refrigerator

Having a marine refrigerator on your boat can be a godsend. With a marine refrigerator, you can keep your perishable items fresh, your beverages cool, and even pack some food for your sea adventure and turn your solar sailing into a complete picnic over the sea.

Marine refrigerators have the added benefit of being better insulated than your ordinary refrigerators all the while consuming less energy than them. This allows your Bluetti portable solar panels and solar power generator for boats to power your refrigerator for an extended period of time without trouble.

If you have ever taken your boat out for a spin after sundown, you’ll know that it can get extremely dark out at the sea, pitch black in fact, and the visibility can go down near to zero. In such a situation, the only lights you have are the ones installed on your boat that allow you to see the waters ahead as well as around the boat.

But you needn’t worry, a high-capacity Bluetti portable solar generator can store enough energy during the day to power your boat lights throughout the night, making sure that you aren’t left in the dark.

If you have ever been at sea during the summers, you’ll know just how hot and humid it can get inside your boat. The moisture in the air can build up inside your boat’s cabin causing you sweat profusely and making it hard to breathe. In addition, the humidity can also force the gasoline fumes from the engine to linger and accumulate in the air in and around your cabin.

This can make things not just unpleasant for you but also dangerous. Fans are the perfect solution for this problem. These systems induce the required airflow in your boat’s cabin preventing the moisture or gasoline fumes from accumulating in the space. In addition, it also helps you fight off the heat. With portable solar panels and generators, you can keep your fans powered for several hours allowing you to stay cool and comfortable when sailing in the hot summer heat.

Final Thoughts

Using Bluetti portable solar panels and portable solar generators to power your boat can offer you various benefits compared to using your engine. For starters, it takes off the excess load from your engine, thereby reducing fuel consumption and allowing you to save a substantial amount on fuel costs in the long run.

In addition, using a solar power generator for boats allows you to power both your AC and DC appliances directly without having to purchase an individual inverter. The best part is that by using a small boat solar panel kit, you can enjoy electricity on small boats that do not even have an engine. This makes portable solar panels and solar generators the ideal energy source for boats.

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Harnessing Helios: The Science Behind NASA’s Solar Sail Breakthrough

By Wayne Smith, Marshall Space Flight Center March 3, 2024

NASA is developing solar sail technology for deep space exploration. This innovative propulsion system, powered by sunlight reflecting off its surface, has recently achieved a new readiness level, making it suitable for future science missions. Solar sails offer a fuel-free, environmentally friendly method of propulsion, capable of propelling low-mass missions to novel orbits and distant planets. Credit: NASA

NASA is pioneering solar sail technology for space exploration, offering an eco-friendly propulsion system that harnesses sunlight. This advancement enables potential missions to study space weather, explore the Sun’s poles, and venture closer to Venus and Mercury.

In his youth, NASA technologist Les Johnson was riveted by the 1974 novel “The Mote in God’s Eye,” by Jerry Pournelle and Larry Niven, in which an alien spacecraft propelled by solar sails visits humanity. Today, Johnson and a NASA team are preparing to test a similar technology.

NASA continues to unfurl plans for solar sail technology as a promising method of deep space transportation. The agency cleared a key technology milestone in January with the successful deployment of one of four identical solar sail quadrants. The deployment was showcased on January 30 at Redwire Corp.’s new facility in Longmont, Colorado.

NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, leads the solar sail team, comprised of prime contractor Redwire, which developed the deployment mechanisms and the nearly 100-foot-long booms, and subcontractor NeXolve, of Huntsville, which provided the sail membrane. In addition to leading the project, Marshall developed the algorithms needed to control and navigate with the sail when it flies in space.

NASA and industry partners used two 100-foot lightweight composite booms to unfurl the 4,300-square-foot sail quadrant for the first time on October 13, 2022, at Marshall Space Flight Center, making it the largest solar sail quadrant ever deployed at the time. On January 30, 2024, NASA cleared a key technology milestone at Redwire’s new facility in Longmont, Colorado, with the successful deployment of one of four identical solar sail quadrants. Credit: NASA

Solar Sail Technology and Its Advancements

The concept behind the solar sail is simple yet revolutionary. It operates by harnessing sunlight reflection for propulsion, similar to how wind propels a sailboat. While just one-quarter of the sail was unfurled in the deployment at Redwire, the complete sail will measure 17,780 square feet when fully deployed, with a thickness of less than a human hair at 2 and a half microns. The sail is made of a polymer material coated with aluminum.

NASA’s Science Mission Directorate recently funded the solar sail technology to reach a new technology readiness level, or TRL 6, which means it’s ready for proposals to be flown on science missions.

“This was a major last step on the ground before it’s ready to be proposed for space missions,” Johnson, who has been involved with sail technology at Marshall for about 25 years, said. “What’s next is for scientists to propose the use of solar sails in their missions. We’ve met our goal and demonstrated that we’re ready to be flown.”

A solar sail traveling through deep space provides many potential benefits to missions using the technology because it doesn’t require any fuel, allowing very high propulsive performance with very little mass. This in-space propulsion system is well-suited for low-mass missions in novel orbits.

“Once you get away from Earth’s gravity and into space, what is important is efficiency and enough thrust to travel from one position to another,” Johnson said.

“A solar sail achieves that by reflecting sunlight – the greater the size of the sail, the greater thrust it can provide.” — Les Johnson, NASA technologist

Future Applications and Environmental Benefits

Some of the missions of interest using solar sail technology include studying space weather and its effects on the Earth, or for advanced studies of the north and south poles of the Sun. The latter has been limited because the propulsion required to get a spacecraft into a polar orbit around the sun is very high and simply not feasible using most of the propulsion systems available today. Solar sail propulsion is also possible for enhancing future missions to Venus or Mercury, given their closeness to the Sun and the enhanced thrust a solar sail would achieve in the more intense sunlight there.

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center technologists Les Johnson and Leslie McNutt at Redwire Space on January 30, 2024, following a successful solar sail deployment test. NASA cleared a key technology milestone at Redwire’s new facility in Longmont, Colorado, with the successful deployment of one of four identical solar sail quadrants. Credit: Redwire Space

Moreover, it’s the ultimate green propulsion system, Johnson said – as long as the Sun is shining, the sail will have propulsion. Where the sunlight is less, he envisions a future where lasers could be used to accelerate the solar sails to high speeds, pushing them outside the solar system and beyond, perhaps even to another star. “In the future, we might place big lasers in space that shine their beams on the sails as they depart the solar system, accelerating them to higher and higher speeds, until eventually they are going fast enough to reach another star in a reasonable amount of time.”

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Watch NASA unfurl basketball-court-sized solar sail for deep space propulsion (video)

"We've met our goal and demonstrated that we're ready to be flown."

NASA has reached a significant technological milestone with progress on an experimental form of spacecraft propulsion which utilizes solar radiation.

The space agency successfully deployed one of four identical quadrants of a huge solar sail at Redwire Space's facility in Longmont, Colorado on Jan. 30. The demonstration was a big step towards some day using the technology in space and, farther in the future, utilizing the concept for deep space transportation.

"This was a major last step on the ground before it's ready to be proposed for space missions," NASA technologist Les Johnson said in a statement . "What's next is for scientists to propose the use of solar sails in their missions. We've met our goal and demonstrated that we're ready to be flown."

Related: Solar-sailing probes may soon get their moment in the sun

In the same way a sailboat uses the wind to propel itself, the solar sail harnesses and reflects sunlight to generate propulsion. Particles of light, known as photons, have no mass, yet when they bounce off of a reflective surface such as the foil-like material of a solar sail, they impart some of their momentum onto it. In the vacuum of space, and with enough photons, a large amount of energy can be transferred to a solar sail over time.

When used within a solar system in which solar radiation is abundant, a solar sail can continue absorbing this momentum to accelerate as long as light reflects off of it. This means craft propelled by solar sails can reach very high speeds, much faster than a chemical rocket — at least in theory.

The major advantages of solar sails are that they do not require fuel and are very light. This makes the technology suitable for low-mass missions in novel orbits. These include orbits for studying space weather and its effects on the Earth, or for advanced studies of the north and south poles of the sun, according to NASA.

The sail will measure 17,780 square feet (1652 sq. meters) when fully deployed. It is made of a polymer material coated with aluminum with a thickness of 2.5 microns, or less than the width of a human hair.

Solar sails have gathered momentum in recent years. The first solar sail to successfully fly was the Japanese Space Exploration Agency's Interplanetary Kite-craft Accelerated by Radiation Of the Sun ( IKAROS ) spacecraft in 2010. Later missions have included NASA's NanoSail-D and the Planetary Society's Lightsail 1 and Lightsail 2 missions.

The tech could soon be propelling low-cost, long-duration space missions and even help accelerate missions beyond the solar system . NASA's Johnson added that lasers could even be used to accelerate the solar sails to high speeds.

"In the future, we might place big lasers in space that shine their beams on the sails as they depart the solar system, accelerating them to higher and higher speeds, until eventually they are going fast enough to reach another star in a reasonable amount of time," Johnson said in the statement.

— What Is a Solar Sail?

— Researchers unlock the keys to designing an interstellar sail

— LightSail 2 spacecraft ends its solar-sailing mission in a blaze of glory

NASA's Science Mission Directorate funded Redwire's solar sail technology to reach a new technology readiness level, or TRL 6, which means it's ready for proposals to be flown on space missions. The 1-9 TRL scale represents the stage of development of a technology, with TRL 9 meaning the system has proven through successful mission operations and is considered fully mature and operational.

The project is led by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. Prime contractor Redwire developed the deployment mechanisms and booms, with subcontractor NeXolve of Huntsville providing the sail membrane. Marshall developed the algorithms for controlling and navigating with the sail when it flies in space.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

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Andrew is a freelance space journalist with a focus on reporting on China's rapidly growing space sector. He began writing for Space.com in 2019 and writes for SpaceNews, IEEE Spectrum, National Geographic, Sky & Telescope, New Scientist and others. Andrew first caught the space bug when, as a youngster, he saw Voyager images of other worlds in our solar system for the first time. Away from space, Andrew enjoys trail running in the forests of Finland. You can follow him on Twitter @AJ_FI .

Deep-space astronomy sensor peers into the heart of an atom

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Mercury slammed by gargantuan eruption from the sun's hidden far side, possibly triggering 'X-ray auroras'

Cisventure Astronot I can't wait for a spacecraft to pull an Opportunity, and operate long after its initial mission. Let's just hope it doesn't also pull an OSIRIS-APEX, and rename itself every time it gets a new objective. Reply
Atlan0001 Probably not, but I wonder if the UFO disks we keep seeing pictures of house titanic (for the size of the disks) unfolding and folding cosmic energy sails to power drives of constant acceleration/decelerations in the space of the universe? Even balloon-shaped surface sails ("surround-sound" and then superconduct energy, so to speak) if not strictly sun facing energy sails? Whatever? Reply
iMaxPlanck Increasing speed of space travel, okay, but "reach another star in a reasonable amount of time"? Like hundreds or thousands of years reasonable? Reply

iMaxPlanck said: Increasing speed of space travel, okay, but "reach another star in a reasonable amount of time"? Like hundreds or thousands of years reasonable?

Atlan0001 said: ...cosmic energy sails to power drives of constant acceleration/decelerations in the space of the universe?

Classical Motion I hate to be so contrary but I don't think a solar sail will work. Yes they can put one up there and measure some momentum and gain some acceleration. But the power source for this device decreases at an inverse square rate with distance. Not practical for any outward travel. Imagine the size of the sail needed at Neptune to have the same momentum we would get here. Light is not a free ride. It fades too quickly. I was under the impression that cosmic rays were more or less omni-directional. Or at least what net direction it had would be sparse. Much less than the stated number. And from what I've heard what directional flux there is temporary. The net cosmic flux could be like the wind. One would need to detect the cosmic flow currents for navigation. The solar wind might work if we could harvest it's momentum. The depictions of it show a net stream of it that might be tacked. This flux also has some dispersion to it, but unlike light, this flux is accelerating. The flux is sparse at Neptune but has much higher velocity. With an efficient harvesting method or converter or collector...this would help counter the inverse square loss for a more practical form of solar travel. But it's in the future. For future tech. Understanding why the solar wind accelerates for so long might really help space travel. It's so anti-gravity. Reply
billslugg Yes, solar sails are possible but there are lots of problems. In order to get a good enough push from the Sun, one must start very close to it. And, yes, galacitc cosmic rays are omnidirectional, they would need to be absorbed, converted into another form of energy, aimed out the back. Solar cosmic rays come from one direction, but why use them when you have sunlight? Reply

billslugg said: Yes, solar sails are possible but there are lots of problems. In order to get a good enough push from the Sun, one must start very close to it. And, yes, galacitc cosmic rays are omnidirectional, they would need to be absorbed, converted into another form of energy, aimed out the back. Solar cosmic rays come from one direction, but why use them when you have sunlight?

billslugg Well, first off, solar cosmic rays produce a power output about 10^-10 that of sunlight, and the intensity falls off by the inverse square just like sunlight does. However, at some point far from the Sun, sunlight power would fall below that of interstellar cosmic rays. I don't know how far that might be. Reply
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Where Is My Solar (Celiac) Plexus?

Some People Refer to the Solar Plexus as the Third Chakra

Physical Symptoms
Managing and Treating Pain

Solar Plexus and Emotional Health

Your solar plexus is a cluster of intertwining nerves that cross paths in a central location just below the sternum (breastbone) and above the diaphragm in the upper abdominal (stomach) area.

"Solar plexus" and "celiac plexus" refer to the same thing and can be used interchangeably. In the Ayurveda healing system and yoga practices, the solar plexus chakra is called Manipura, or the third chakra. The Manipura chakra is associated with fire, personal power, and the sun's yellow energy.

This article explains what you need to know about solar plexus anatomy, how it performs different bodily functions, what causes solar plexus pain, and how to "unblock" your solar plexus using yoga poses or breathing techniques that promote emotional health.

ozgurdonmaz / Getty Images

Solar Plexus Anatomy

The solar plexus is located in the center of the torso along the body's midline at the T12/L2 vertebral level of the thoracic spine . It sits in the upper abdomen near the pancreas and wraps around the roots of the abdominal aorta .

The solar plexus is part of the autonomic nervous system , meaning it is involved in automatic bodily functions like breathing and regulating blood pressure. The solar plexus is a nerve center hub that sends signals between the gut and brain.

Nerves from the solar plexus are connected with abdominal organs and glands, such as the:

Gallbladder

Solar Plexus Function and Spiritual Interpretation

The solar plexus's ability to communicate between the gut and brain is key to survival. Nerve signals from the solar plexus control peristalsis (wave-like contractions that push digestive material through the intestines), which affects how the gastrointestinal (GI) tract digests food. Many digestion-related issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acid reflux have links to the solar plexus.

When the body's stress response kicks into fight-or-flight mode, sympathetic branches of the solar plexus inhibit peristalsis and redirect blood flow to skeletal muscles, which disrupts digestion in preparation for running or confronting something threatening. Conversely, the solar plexus's parasympathetic nerves activate when the body feels safe and calm. These "rest and digest" nerve fibers promote peristalsis and healthy digestion.

There are ways to hack into the solar plexus and override some of its involuntary responses. For instance, taking a deep diaphragmatic breath followed by a long, slow exhale through pursed lips (as if blowing out lots of candles on a birthday cake) activates the vagus nerve and can soothe a "nervous stomach" via the solar plexus.

If you're feeling unmotivated or lacking gusto, taking quick, shallow breaths with short, forceful exhalations that emulate hyperventilation can trick your sympathetic nervous system into gear and put a "fire in your belly" by activating the sympathetic nerves emanating from the celiac plexus.

Solar Plexus Chakra in the Ayurveda Belief System

In Ayurvedic medicine, the solar plexus chakra is the third chakra in the body's seven-chakra system. It's located below the fourth (heart) chakra. In Sanskrit, the third chakra is called Manipura , which means "city of jewels" or "lustrous gem" because it's associated with the element of fire and the sun's sparkly yellow hue.

What Is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is an ancient system of natural medicine that started in India many millennia ago. In Sanskrit, ayur means "life," and veda means "knowledge." Hence, the direct translation of Ayurveda is "life knowledge" or "science of life."

Prana is a broad term used to describe life-force energy and vital strength that circulates throughout the body. Optimizing prana is key to Ayurveda. All of the chakras are conduits for prana energy. The third chakra is the center of another vital energy called Samana vaya , which facilitates digestion and metabolism.

Solar Plexus Physical Pain Symptoms

In Ayurvedic medicine and yogic practices, "unblocking the solar plexus" or third chakra is a good thing. In this context, removing a solar plexus "block" opens up the body's central energy channel called Sushumna nadi , which allows life-force energy to flow freely through all seven chakras from the spine's base to the head's crown.

According to the Ayurveda belief system, physical pain symptoms of a solar plexus chakra "blockage" can include:

Indigestion
Pancreas issues
Liver problems
Colon inflammation ( colitis )

Accurately using the words "block" or "unblock" in reference to the solar plexus and pain symptoms varies depending on the context. In Western medicine, a "celiac plexus block" is a medical procedure that deadens nerves in the solar plexus that send pain signals up to the brain from the stomach area and is used to manage chronic upper abdominal pain that doesn't respond to other treatments.

Sometimes, "Blocking" the Solar Plexus Is Good

A celiac plexus block (CPB) can provide pain relief and offset the use of opioids for pain management in people with pancreatic cancer , pancreatitis , gastrointestinal cancer , cholangiocarcinoma , and Crohn's disease .

Managing and Treating Solar Plexus Pain

Treatments will vary depending on the cause of solar plexus pain. For example, if solar plexus pain is caused by blunt force trauma, such as getting the wind knocked out of you during an athletic event, self-care techniques such as icing the affected area, anti-inflammatory medication, and rest can provide relief and promote healing.

More serious medical conditions that cause solar plexus pain, such as pancreatic cancer, are often treated with a celiac plexus block and neurolysis , which help manage and treat upper abdominal pain associated with the solar plexus.

According to Ayurveda belief systems, there's a connection between the solar plexus and emotional health. Anxiety and stress—as well as low self-esteem and feeling powerless—can create solar plexus chakra imbalances that perpetuate these emotions if the third chakra stays blocked.

Breathing exercises are a simple way to balance and heal the solar plexus chakra while also hacking the parasympathetic and sympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system in this plexus.

If the solar plexus is underactive and you're in a gloomy mood, take short, quick breaths to awaken prana energy, enhance feelings of self-worth, and cultivate an "eye of the tiger" go-getter attitude by activating sympathetic nerves. Ideally, you want to use breathwork to create an energized but not overexcited state of mind by balancing the push-pull mechanisms within your nervous system.

When solar plexus nerves are overactive, and you feel stressed out, take slower breaths with a deep inhale and a longer exhale. Diaphragmatic "belly breathing" activates parasympathetic nerves and calms the nervous system, which triggers the relaxation response and promotes emotional health.

Yoga Poses for a Blocked Solar Plexus

Below are some yoga poses that can activate and balance the solar plexus by opening or "unblocking" the third chakra, which boosts confidence and can help improve overall well-being.

Reverse Plank Pose (Purvottanasana)

Sit on a yoga mat with both legs extended in front of you, your torso erect, and palms on the floor by your hips. Inhale as you lift your upper abdomen and pelvis towards the ceiling while keeping your legs straight and pointing your toes. Hold the pose for 5-10 breaths.

Warrior 2 Pose (Virabhadrasana 2)

Stand with feet wide apart and bend one leg until the bent leg’s knee is above its ankle. Twist your torso and extend both arms outwards while looking forward, keeping the other leg straight. Hold for 3 to 5 breaths. Repeat on the other side.

Boat Pose (Navasana)

Lay flat facing upwards, then lift your legs and chest simultaneously to form a “V” shape. Extend both arms forward, keeping them parallel to the ground. Feel the muscles in your core and abdominal area contract. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

Dolphin Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

From a plank position with knees/shins and elbows/forearms touching the matt, bring the hips up towards the ceiling while straightening the legs to form an “A” shape. Hold for 5-10 breaths.

Sun Mudra (Surya Mudra)

Sit cross-legged with your torso erect, elbows on your knees, and palms facing upwards. Fold your ring finger towards your palms and hold it in place with your thumbs while breathing deeply. This mudra pose awakens kundalini energy and the solar plexus’s "inner fire."

The solar plexus is a bundle of nerve fibers in the upper stomach area that shoot out from a central hub like sun rays. These nerves send signals back and forth between the brain and the gut. The solar plexus is called the third chakra in spiritual and yoga practices. When this chakra is blocked, it makes people feel less confident and lose their self-esteem. Yoga poses that activate the solar plexus can unblock this chakra and boost feelings of personal power. Quick, shallow "fire breathing" also unblocks this chakra and awakens vital life-force energy.

Yoga Journal. Everything you need to know about the solar plexus (navel) chakra .

Pereira GAM, Lopes PTC, Santos AMPV dos, et al. Celiac plexus block: an anatomical study and simulation using computed tomography . Radiol Bras . 2014;47(5):283-287. doi:10.1590/0100-3984.2013.1881

John RS, Dixon B, Hendrix JM, Shienbaum R. Celiac plexus block . In: StatPearls . StatPearls Publishing;2024.

Nutritionist Resource. How to balance your chakra for digestion .

Hansen AB, Moralez G, Romero SA, et al. Mechanisms of sympathetic restraint in human skeletal muscle during exercise: role of α-adrenergic and nonadrenergic mechanisms . American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology . 2020;319(1):H192-H202. doi:10.1152/ajpheart.00208.2020

Magnon V, Dutheil F, Vallet GT. Benefits from one session of deep and slow breathing on vagal tone and anxiety in young and older adults . Sci Rep . 2021;11(1):19267. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-98736-9

Russo MA, Santarelli DM, O’Rourke D. The physiological effects of slow breathing in the healthy human . Breathe . 2017;13(4):298-309. doi:10.1183/20734735.009817

Arhanta Yoa. Solar plexus chakra: Healing powers of manipura chakra .

Surya World. Prana from ayurvedic point of view .

Sahaja Yoga Science. The central channel-sushumna nadi .

Arhanta Yoga. Solar plexus chakra: Healing powers of the manipura chakra .

Urits I, Jones MR, Orhurhu V, et al. A comprehensive review of the celiac plexus block for the management of chronic abdominal pain . Curr Pain Headache Rep . 2020;24(8):42. doi:10.1007/s11916-020-00878-4

Sachdev AH, Gress FG. Celiac plexus block and neurolysis . Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Clinics of North America . 2018;28(4):579-586. doi:10.1016/j.giec.2018.06.004

Cornman-Homonoff J, Holzwanger D, Lee K, Madoff D, Li D. Celiac plexus block and neurolysis in the management of chronic upper abdominal pain . Semin intervent Radiol . 2017;34(04):376-386. doi:10.1055/s-0037-1608861

Goodnet. 5 yoga poses to open the solar plexus chakra .

By Christopher Bergland Christopher Bergland is a retired ultra-endurance athlete turned medical writer and science reporter.

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