05/06/2024
Our solar addition is online 😊
We added 18 X 200W flexible solar panels covering most of Ghost’s foredeck. These are used only when in a marina or on anchor or mooring. When getting underway, the panels are folded into 2 stacks for stowing. In total, this gives us 5475W nominal feeding into our 24V/1000AH LFP house bank
Build Details (for those that have inquired)
I used 6mm Dyneema to create a frame starting from the cross beam, back to pad eyes on the deck to which I attached the panels using Velcro straps. 2 pairs of MC4 cables with waterproof quick-disconnect fittings are run from the 2X / 3S6P arrays of Allpowers SF300 flexible panels to a waterproof breaker box in the anchor locker with 2x 32a 500v DC Circuit Breakers.
From there, the lines are led back to the Nav station, then continue to 2X Victron SmartSolar MPPT Tr VE. Can 150V 70 amp located in the Tech closet int the master stateroom (Port/Aft.) The output from the MPPTS goes to a bus bar with 2X 70mm cables led aft to the Port engine room where they tie into the main system bus bar via 2x 150A/32V MEGA-fuses. The system connects to the Victron network via a CAN bus cable running from the MPPTs to the Cerbo located at the Nav station.
It’s been a bit cloudy since we brought the panels online, but thus far were generating ~20kWh per day with mid-day peaks of ~4200W
Further tweaking…
• We’re getting significant shading from the Jib. The current wiring layout has the series panels running port to starboard (across the hull). This results in the series-wired panels being shaded at peak production hours. I may rewire the panels placing the in-series panels on the extreme port and Starboard sides (running parallel to the hulls.) This should allow the more powerful mid-day sun (and resulting shade) to fall on the panels in Parallel, generating a greater output.
• I need to work out a better way to level the panels. Currently, I have our unused bean bag chairs in the lowest areas.
• I’m waiting on delivery of a couple Blue Sea Systems 285 Series 80amp DC breakers to fit between the MPPTs and Busbar.
The only cons thus far,
• We lose the use of the foredeck for lounging – When on anchor, we have comfortable seating and a wonderful sunshade that covers the entire foredeck. This is not possible when the solar arrays are in use. This is acceptable as we still have the sun lounge.
• It’s adds a bit of work when accessing the forward lazarette and anchor locker. 6 Velcro straps must be unfastened to access either locker. This is a small price to pay for the power benefits.
• It does take a bit of time to disable and stow the system when getting underway (currently about 45 minutes, which I believe will improve with practice.)
Time will tell as to how the panels hold up, but thus far I'm pleased with the results.