Solar panel mounting

[Daddio]

Just looking for mounting ideas for solar panels. We have a 29.5 with a Bimini. Pictures would be very helpful as well

 

[Sailm8]

I too have a 29.5 and will be adding 2 flexible panels (200 w total) to my new bimini this fall. I figure I have room for 3 but plan to start with 2 and see how they work out.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Solar Systems: Selection, Installation & Controllers by Maine Sail SUPERB

http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/solar_panel

 

[Bob 04 H260]

I mounted a large (325W) panel above my bimini just behind the arch this year.

I had already added horizontal struts (1" s/s tubing) to the bimini frame and replaced the two vertical aft web straps with 1" s/s as well. I then only needed to add two 1.25" angle aluminium pieces from the arch out to just aft of the bimini. I then cantilevered these back down to the aft verticals on the Bimini frame. I think the pictures below will help.

Also you can buy a variety of kits from Emarine for Bimini, rail or stantion mounting of panels, https://www.emarineinc.com/170-Watt-Top-of-Bimini-System-Dual-85W-Panel

The panel is mounted close to the Bimini to reduce some of the windage and not dominate the look of the boat.

Good luck, Bob

 

[sea_casper]

Here is how I mounted my 235w panel on a H33.

 

[Regular Guy]

I used a 100 Watt flexible panel without support tray.
http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.phd?t=1209928