Solar Power Cell Anyone?

Rabbits Hutch · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 6:47 pm Post subject: Solar Power Cell Anyone?

Cheers All,

Has anyone used a solar cell on the cabin roof to allow for more time on the hook? If so, what size? Brand names?

I'm not a big fan of the noise from a generator when trying to relax at anchor.

Looking forward to this thread.

Gary R.

Larry H · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 7:03 pm Post subject:

Gary,

We have a 35 watt solar panel on the Nancy H. It produces about 2 amps @ 16-17 volts in full sun. I mounted it flat on the cockpit roof. The panel size is about 2 x 2 ft.

Photos in my album.

This panel produces enough power to allow us to use the stereo and cabin lights without depleating the main batteries.

Dora~Jean · Posted: Sat Mar 11, 2006 8:54 pm Post subject:

Gary,

I have a "flex-panel" left over from my sailing days. Bought at West Marine about 10 yrs ago, still fine. Not as efficient as a solid thick panel, but this tucks nicely under my forward bunk. It is about 16x48", 30W. The 30W is at bit inaccurate in real world to determine current because the panel puts out about 16+ volts at no load, hooked to a battery it then depends on the steady-state battery voltage and how much it's been depleted. Mine puts out about same as Larry's (above) at best sun position.

Haven't used it often, but on extended cruises where we don't move for a couple of days, it comes in handy. 60W is more practical, get two 30's and parallel them. Most newer models have overvoltage protection and integrated diodes to prevent current 'drain' at night.

Steve

Discovery · Posted: Sun Mar 12, 2006 10:03 am Post subject:

Gary R.,

I have installed 4X15 watt solar panels on the cabin roof of Discovery. Have them connected to the port battery bank, (two Optima D34's) thru a solar charge controller. The port bank is dedicated to the Norcold Ref. and is also charged by the port engine. See pix in the Cygnet album, Discovery sub-album. Will give the setup it's first try at Lake Powell, soon.

Brent