I've read a little about this. As I see it there are four ways to do
this underway.
1. Solar Cell
Solar cells are quiet, but inefficient. The high
efficiency types are expensive and breakable. The low
efficiency types need to be large because they're
inefficient. Also there are few places on a potter where
I could put a cell, where it isn't in the way and where it
won't be shaded on some tack.
2. Wind Turbine
Noisy, possibly dangerous if the winds pickup. Placement is difficult
on the Potter.
3. Water Turbine
Water turbines would probably slow the boat. This may
not be a problem since 6 knots seems to be top speed.
So any wind above 10 knots should provide enough power
to push the boat and a turbine dragged in the water.
One problem would be corrosion. Another problem is a
turbine is another thing to get fouled in ropes,
engine or lake bottom in emergencies.
4. Motor Generator/Alternator
My motor, the Nissan 5Hp doesn't seem to have this
capacity. So would I need to buy a new motor or an
accessory?
Fauver, James wrote:
>
> Tom, et. al.
>
> From what I have read, I would not want to mess with a wind-generator if
> I had my choice. They are noisy, break down, and I am not sure how you
> would mount one on a Potter. In contrast, the solar panels just sit
> (suction cups?) on an open spot on the deck, quietly providing power.
> Depending on your loads, neither may provide enough power to keep the
> battery topped off, but it will delay total discharge. I hope to do
> this trip someday as well, but I would not want to be dependent on
> battery power without a charging engine.
>
> James Fauver
> P19 Southern Star
> Lake Conroe, Texas
# Regards Tom Bodine @
# Skipper "Frimi" P-19 #1019 ,-+-'
# Dancing to the music life has given me. A