The controller is almost more important than the panel itself. If you can afford, get yourself an MPPT controller - it will convert the extra voltage (in full sun the panel will deliver close to 20 V) into extra current.
I highly recommend Genasun controller - they are pretty affordable and very good quality. I have a Morningstar. I like the panel that came with mine that shows how much the solar charged the batteries (and other things, too, but less important). I would buy as big panel as you can fit and afford (you can't have too much power). For a small installation like yours you can get away with even as little as 25 W (this what I have and use for charging 2 60 Ah batteries; no shore power). I admit, it is a bit short. I am in Ottawa, so similar latitude. Marek -------- Original message -------- From: Dean McNeill <d...@deanmc.ca> Date: 2020-10-28 14:45 (GMT-05:00) To: cnc-list@cnc-list.com Subject: Stus-List Solar panel for battery charging I’m planning on getting a solar panel to keep my batteries (12 v starter and 12 v house) charged next season on my C&C34. I don’t have a fridge and won’t need any great amount of power (mostly coastal day-sails, no long cruises). I just want to keep the batteries up while it’s moored (no access to shore power). I live in Nova Scotia, so reasonable sunshine for sailing season. I’m thinking something like a flexible panel on the dodger. What wattage would you recommend, and what other pieces (controller etc) should I be looking at? Recommended brands? Dean October is the time to show your appreciation with a small contribution to this list to help offset the costs. If you want to support the list - use PayPal to send contribution -- https://www.paypal.me/stumurray Thanks - Stu
October is the time to show your appreciation with a small contribution to this list to help offset the costs. If you want to support the list - use PayPal to send contribution -- https://www.paypal.me/stumurray Thanks - Stu
