Reduce Your Fossil Fuel Use - Solar vs. Wind vs. Hydrogenerators
Using renewable energy on a boat offers several benefits compared to running your engine. Renewable energy reduces your environmental impact, lowers your fuel costs and reduces engine wear and the need for maintenance. By using renewable energy, you'll also reduce the noise produced by your engine, making your cruising experience quieter and more enjoyable.
When it comes to powering a boat, there are several renewable energy sources to consider, including solar, wind, and hydrogenerators. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which should be carefully weighed based on the specific needs and circumstances of your boat and its occupants.
Solar Power
Solar panels are often placed on unused deck space, on a pushpit or on the top of a wheelhouse to harness sunlight and generate energy.
Pros
Low Maintenance: Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance, reducing the need for ongoing upkeep.
Silent Operation: Solar panels operate silently, which can provide a quieter environment on the boat.
Easy Installation: Some smaller variants of solar panels are available. Panels are available from flexible to fully rigid making them easy to mount in any location.
Cons
Dependent on Sunlight: Solar power generation is dependent on sunlight, which may be limited on cloudy or overcast days.
Space Requirements: Adequate space on the boat may be needed to install sufficient solar panels to meet energy needs.
Costly Installation: Larger and more complex installations to provide the extra space can be expensive to install.
Wind Power
Wind turbines are usually placed at the back of the boat to make use of the empty space and clear airflow. This placement helps the wind turbine produce electricity from the wind.
Pros
Versatile Installation: Wind turbines can be mounted in various locations on the boat to capture optimal wind conditions.
Not Sunlight Dependent: Wind power can be generated regardless of sunlight, providing an alternative energy source on cloudy days.
Power: Can produce significant power in favourable conditions.
Cons
Noise and Vibration: Wind turbines can produce noise and vibration, which may disrupt the tranquillity of the sailing experience.
Space and Aesthetics: Placement of wind turbines may require additional space and consideration of aesthetics on the boat due to the mounting pole.
Potential Interference: Wind turbines may interfere with other equipment or rigging on the boat, requiring careful placement.
Sailing Direction: They will be less effective when sailing down wind because the apparent wind experienced is less.
Hydrogenerators
Hydrogenerators are usually installed on the transom, with the turbine below the waterline allowing them to produce power while the boat is sailing. Hull mounted pod units are also an option but are more complex to install.
Pros
Continuous Power Generation: Hydrogenerators can produce power continuously as your boat moves through the water, regardless of weather conditions or wind direction.
Low Maintenance: Hydrogenerators are low maintenance and require minimal attention once installed.
Silent Operation: Hydrogenerators operate silently, producing power as you sail.
Not Sunlight or Directional Wind Dependent: Hydrogenerators do not rely on sunlight or wind to generator power.
Generate Power At Low Speeds: Hydrogenerators can start producing power at low speeds, the Remoran hydrogenerators can start producing power at just 3 knots.
Cons
Requires Sailing to Produce Power: Hydrogenerators will only produce power as you sail meaning they’re perfect for long crossings but won’t produce power stationary (e.g. at anchor).
Storage: Retracting the hydrogenerator is required during storage and boat manoeuvring in marinas.
Installation: Requires a stiff mounting surface.
Remoran hydrogenerators feature a telescopic design and up to 40 degrees of adjustment allowing for fitting to most transoms without any adapters. They’re supplied as a complete package containing all of the items that you’ll need for installation and weigh just 7.5KG.
Highly competitively priced at just £2,190+VAT.
Summary
In summary, solar, wind, and hydrogenerators each have pros and cons for powering a sailing boat. The reliability of hydrogenerators makes them a perfect option for those who will be going on long crossings. In contrast, solar and wind alternatives can be great option to keep you batteries topped up in marinas or at anchor. Using a combination of these systems provides a balanced approach to sustainable energy generation on board.