Choosing a solar panel for a yacht

Solar energy can contribute significantly to the domestic energy needs of yachts. It can power interior lighting, radios, navigation instruments and water pumps - or can simply be used to keep batteries in good condition when the boat is laid up.

- Ready to buy a solar charging kit for your yacht? Click here to see the most popular kits for yachts -

A lot of thought has to be given to the installation. Quite apart from the corrosive effects of salt spray, and the fact that everything is thrown all over the place all the time, space is often at a premium on a yacht!

Our flexible solar panel range can be gently flexed and glued down to the curve of a deck or coachhouse, as long as the curvature is not too great. They use high-efficiency cells, so take up the minimum space possible - an important factor on a boat. They are great for keeping your battery topped up while you are away, and depending on the panel you choose, may be powerful enough to run lights, radios and navigation equipment on a daily basis. Simply glue the panels down with a marine-grade adhesive such as Sikaflex, or screw down using the four grommet holes in the corners. 

Many people do still use glass-framed panels on boats, and where there is a suitable place to mount them out of harm's way, they can be very effective. The Victron range are made by one of the longest-established manufacturers of solar related products, yet remain very good value.