Period:
Summer 2015
Installation:
4kW Solar installation on a narrow boat
Payback period:
7.5 Years
Project details:
We met Les when exhibiting at the Haddenham Steam Rally. He explained that he already had solar panels on portakabins by his house and asked the question if it would be possible to install a solar array on his narrow boat which he had taken out of the water and turned in to an office/chandlery.
Following a visit to the Earith Marina, Roly felt with careful planning the solar installation could take place. Roly calculated 16 panels could be neatly installed side by side producing 4kW’s of electricity per annum. We recommended Perlight Delta Black Mono Crystalline Panels which have excellent build quality and Superb Performance levels. Consideration for the roof fixtures was very important to ensure there was minimal impact on the roof.
Les was pleased with the design and quote received. The installation took our Engineers just 5 days to complete. As Les was unable able to get an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the boat, he was unable to apply for the higher rate Feed-in Tariff (FiT). However with the constant requirement for electricity at the Marina, all the electricity produced would be used providing a payback period as good as any other installation we have done.
Our Engineers enjoyed this different type of installation, its great seeing solar panels being used in different ways other than on the roof of a house or commercial property. Solar installations on boats are becoming more popular as people become increasingly self-sufficient.
