Though someone might be interested in our new solar arch and panels on our Hylas 54.
We wanted to add significant solar area but we were not keen on putting panels on deck (shading, slippery), on rail “wings” or on the canvas bimini top (shading, dynamic substrate, complex wire routing, not useable when boat stripped bare for storage). We wanted a solution that looked in keeping with the existing boat structures and we did not care for sharp-cornered aluminum flat frame panel solution often seen.
So, we had a curved frame of stainless rail welded to the top of the Simpson Davits which matches the existing Hylas rails. Over that is a GRP panel color matched to deck grp to act as structure to attach the semi flexible solar panels (four Solbian SP130W). The curved shape makes sure there is head room to duck under to use the transom steps. The structure does not interfere with after-swim showers, dinghy storage, nor does it impinge on the ability to use the steps for dinghy loading. And it keeps the sun off the dink. In fact the structure seems to make the davits even stronger than before. The added weight is still well within the 225 kg specs of the davits and as we just switched from a GRP to a much lighter aluminum dink, the weight aft is probably more or less unchanged. We also moved the aft nav light from the davit to the aft edge of the frame and relocated the ensign pole socket so the ensign does not flap over the panels. So far we are very happy with the power from the panels, the look, and the strength of the solution. Happy to share the plans with anyone interested. 😃
Pics enclosed. Note: wires not dressed tidily yet
