Pearson Boats - Common Systems > Deck Mounted Hardware

Where to mount 15W solar panel?

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Dolce_Vita:
For me, the back rail isn't a good mounting choice.  It's already too cluttered with the swim ladder, dinghy outboard, and grill.  I also have a tower on the aft-port corner for a wind generator.

I have a bimini, so my prime location would be on top of that.

Dave:
I have been thinking of making some brackets that mount to the bimini frame so that it is easy to remove when I am not using the panel. It seems like the best place to get the most sunlight without anything on the boat obstructing the sun. I also fish from my boat and often have trolling lines out, so the back rail would interfere with that.

Libations Too:
This is both an interesting and timely thread since I am planning the addition of a 15 to 30 watt panel this summer. Dave and Selene, I hope that you will continue to post status updates here...especially your decisions regarding controllers, panels, and mounting locations.

I have no Bimini so the aft rail is the most likely location for me, perhaps on the port side based on my slip orientation to the sun. I want some type of adjustable mount so that I can reposition as sailing conditions and sun angles change. I like the pbase website that Selene shared....thank you!

selene:
Preliminary findings from various sites/discussions online...
- Most of the mounting fittings needed can be purchased from Sailrite
- Sunwize seem to be a popular panel manufacturer; about $179 for a 40W panel.
- Genesun GV-4 MPPT seems to be the most popular low-end controller ($105 for a lead/acid battery)

Preliminary estimate/budget:
- $179 for 40W panel (Wholesale Solar)
- $105 for GV-4 (Genesun)
- $126 brackets etc. (Sailrite)
- $40 misc wiring, fuses, etc
(plus shipping)

Boy, adds up fast...

Libations Too:
Thanks for sharing!

Yes, it does add up quickly. An observation: the cost of the controller and mounting hardware seem great places to look for cost savings....or to review cost/benefit balance. Is the MPPT controller worth the premium cost? Can a lower cost mounting system be devised?

As a reference point, here is a web retailer that offers a 40 watt panel and PWM controller for $165-170 plus shipping. http://store.sundancesolar.com/40wasopa.html. Lower cost options are available if one uses flexible panels, but the warranties also suggest lower quality and/or less expected useful life.

For my application I think I might be able to live with the PWM controller...and maybe even a smaller panel. For mounting hardware I have been thinking of a couple of pieces of webbing (same UV resistant kind as used on sails) to make simple loops that wrap around my upper pushpit rail and serve as hinges. Then add some type of adjustable support bar or bracket to hold the panel at the desired angle. With these modifications I think it possible to lop off $150-200 from the cost and still get most of what I want.

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