2.0kW LG Solar Array for Off-Grid Energy Independence
A new support frame was constructed to expand the LG solar array to a total capacity of 2.0 kW, enabling the battery bank to typically reach full charge within 2–4 hours on a sunny day.
The original setup included two 260-watt solar panels, to which four additional 350-watt LG panels were added, significantly increasing overall generation capacity.
System redundancy is achieved through two independent solar charging circuits, providing added resilience and reliability offshore.
The extended frame and rear structure also deliver a practical secondary benefit, creating an additional shaded area of approximately 2m x 4m.
A small air-conditioning unit has also been integrated into the system and is capable of running overnight directly from the battery storage when required.
Victron Smart LiFePO4 Battery System (1000Ah)
A 1000Ah Victron Energy Smart Lithium LiFePO₄ battery bank forms the core of the vessel’s electrical system, fully automated and remotely monitored from anywhere in the world.
Under normal usage, this provides approximately two days of controlled power consumption without charging before reaching a self-defined 25% “critical” reserve threshold.
System redundancy is built in through modular design, allowing individual batteries to be quickly isolated in the event of a fault while keeping the remainder of the bank operational.
A further layer of backup is provided by a dedicated Lifeline 125Ah AGM battery, independently charged and reserved for engine starting and essential systems.
In the unlikely event of a complete failure of the main lithium bank, the system is alarmed and automatically transfers to the Essential Bus, maintaining power to critical loads including engine starting, bilge pumps, autopilot, MFDs, and the communications modem/router.
High-Output Balmar Alternator Upgrade for Reliable Offshore Power Generation
The Yanmar 40hp engines have been upgraded with two high-output 170-amp Balmar alternators, allowing flexible charging configurations where either one or both can be engaged depending on demand.
This increased charging capacity has enabled the removal of the onboard generator entirely.
When additional energy input is required, the alternators provide high-rate bulk charging directly into the Victron Energy Smart Lithium battery bank, which is designed to accept high charging currents efficiently.
This charging system operates independently from the AGM emergency battery charging circuit, which is powered via the Victron Energy 5000W inverter/charger.
Domestic hot water can be produced either via the starboard engine’s heat exchanger or through 240V AC supply from the lithium system. The 1200-watt heating element typically brings the water system up to temperature in approximately 30 minutes.
