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What are the components of a solar installation?
A solar system consists of one or more solar modules as well as a charge controller that feeds the generated electricity into the on-board battery. The battery stores the generated energy so that it can later be called up by the consumers on board. Optionally, there is also an inverter that converts the direct current into alternating current.
What are Plug&Play solar modules?
Plug&Play solar modules are pre-configured solar systems designed for quick and easy installation without special expertise. These modules are usually sold as complete sets and contain all the necessary components: solar modules, inverter, cables and connectors.
The modules are simply plugged into a socket. This makes the installation process much easier and faster. Plug&Play solar modules are a good option for getting started with solar power generation and for use in mobile homes, boats or garden sheds. In addition, they offer flexibility as they can be easily dismantled and reassembled at another location.
For boaters who want a simple solar system on board, complete sets with 12V solar panels are suitable.
These sets are also easy to install and already include an integrated charge controller. They are therefore particularly well suited for supplying solar energy to the propulsion of boats by placing them directly on deck or in the cockpit.
In addition, there are also larger plug-and-play solar modules that can be used to recharge the boat's battery bank. Such systems are particularly useful if there is no shore power connection at the mooring or the boat is moored at a mooring buoy. In this case, a plug-and-play solar module can charge the on-board battery with minimal installation effort, even when no one is on board.
What to consider when placing solar panels on the boat?
Whoever wants to connect a solar panel on the boat should consider the following:
- The solar panels should always be oriented in the direction of the sun in order to achieve the maximum energy yield
- The panels should not be affected by shadows, as this will significantly reduce the performance of the installation.
- In addition, they should be mounted in such a way that they are protected from damage and do not get in the way.
- To achieve maximum energy yield, the tilt angle of the solar panels should be adjusted according to the width of the boat and the geographical location.
- The solar panels should be well ventilated to avoid overheating and damage from moisture.
Fixed panels
How many modules make sense?
How many modules make sense always depends on the space requirements and the energy production of the modules. As a rule, two to four modules are sufficient for a recreational boat.
What role does the area play?
The area plays a decisive role in the selection of the solar system. In sunny regions such as the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, a solar system can work particularly effectively and thus cover a larger part of the energy demand. In cooler or cloudy regions, on the other hand, the performance of the solar system is lower and additional energy sources such as a generator or shore power connection may be needed. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the area and climatic conditions when planning a solar system on the boat.
Solar controller
Mounting accessories
Electricity generators
Electricity generators produce electricity by burning petrol or diesel and can produce high power. These are particularly useful when there is a high demand for energy or when there is insufficient sunlight. However, compared to solar panels, they are noisier, more prone to failure and have higher fuel consumption. They are also more expensive to purchase and maintain than solar systems. Furthermore, they do not belong to the renewable energy sources.
Wind generators
Wind generators produce electricity through the power of the wind and can be a good complement to a solar system. These convert wind energy into electrical energy and are a useful alternative, especially on long voyages or in coastal areas with strong winds. However, they also require a lot of space and can be prone to failure in bad weather or when there is too much wind. In addition, they need enough wind and there may be noise and vibration.
Fuel cell
These convert hydrogen into electrical energy and are more efficient than generators. They are also quiet, reliable and require little maintenance. However, they are also more expensive to buy and the required fuels have to be stored on board.
Mobile power station
Batteries, especially mobile power stations, can also be used as an alternative or supplement to a solar system to store energy. These can be charged either with solar panels or externally and serve as a buffer or backup energy source. However, they are limited in capacity and need to be recharged regularly. In addition, they are usually heavier and more expensive than solar panels.
Overall, it is important to thoroughly examine the different alternatives to solar panels and weigh their advantages and disadvantages to find the best solution for individual needs and requirements.