Solar Panel Install

Boat work…no matter how easy or straight forward the task may seem, it is rarely easy and never straight forward. The simplest of tasks will invariably end with a frozen bolt, or a stripped screw head, or needing a tool just a little different from everything you have. That 5 minute task turns into hours, a whole afternoon, or even “let’s try again tomorrow”. And, installing solar panels does not even begin to fall into the “simplest of tasks” category. Luckily, we’ve had the guys from The Yacht Rigger helping us out with projects over the last year such as this.

This morning they showed up and we began mounting our three 100 watt Renogy solar panels on the frame over the bimini which they had previously installed.

All went well, and in no time, we had the panels mounted and the bimini cover back on. Looks great!!! We tested and good voltage was coming through all the panels.

Needing a few more connectors to complete the solar wiring to the charger and finally the batteries, the guys worked a little on some of the mast wiring project we’ve been working on before calling it a day.

The solar install project is the last big project on the list before we take off. With the solar panels and MPPT charger we won’t have to rely on running the diesel engine and using the alternator to keep our batteries charged. The diesel is noisy, smelly, and costs money for fuel. Not to mention, solar is much better for the environment. Nor will we have to rely on being plugged into shore power at a marina. Marina fees are prohibitive for the long run. As long as we get some sun, we’ll be able to relax quietly in remote anchorages with all the power we need to run the fridge/freezer, use the cabin lights and fans, use the radio, use the instruments and anchor light, etc. And, if it’s not sunny enough where we are…we’ll just hoist up the sails and move to a sunnier locale!