Implementation 

We fiberglassed heavy wooden boxes low on each side in the aft of the boat to hold the four batteries. The batteries are wired in parallel and charged by a Four Winds wind generator, solar panels and a high output alternator. The wind  generator gets the most questions from other boaters when we are at anchor. They ask “ how much power does it produce, what about the noise and vibration?” and lastly, “ how do we like it?”. We have found it to be quiet with very little vibration, producing 10-12 amps when the winds blows over 12 knots. The two solar panels are Kyocera KC80 and produce about 5 amps when the sun is directly overhead. There is a significant reduction when the panels are shaded by the boat or radar antenna. The final item charging our batteries is the engine driven Powerline 120-amp alternator. The charge to the batteries is controlled by a Next-Step Multi-Stage Regulator, which carefully monitors the charging current and battery temperature precisely controlling the charging rate. This is important because gel-cell batteries can be damaged if over charged. The wind generator and solar panels also have 3 stage Trace C-12 regulator charger/controls.

Limerence’s main batteries start the diesel engine in normal conditions and a backup lead sealed start –up battery is available in an emergency. We have about 600 amps of power, and monitor our usage with a Link 10 power monitor and management system.

The electrical power system was designed for 110 volts, so we can purchase standard off the shelf products, like microwave, TV, VCR, appliances and lights. We were aware of their level of energy consumption as part of our purchasing decision. If it’s not energy efficient the item doesn’t get on board. We have learned to turn off the power to our TV and VCR when they are not in use. They consume a lot of energy when in the “standby mode”- waiting for the remote control unit to be activated. A Trace 2500-watt inverter/charger converts the 12vDC from our batteries to produce clean 110 volts. This unit also serves as an automatic and quiet battery charger when we are at the dock.

Despite the hefty battery power, we closely monitor our energy consumption. We use efficient florescent and halogen lights. When we recently upgraded our refrigeration system we selected an Adler-Barbour ColdMachine unit that has an optional air/water cooling capability. It significantly reduces amperage draw and is a fail-safe heat removal system using the heat pump principal. Although the microwave is used in short bursts daily, it’s the worst energy hog on the boat.

Results 
We’ve sat at anchor using lights, TV, microwave, and hairdryer, not needing to start the engine for three days. When we do charge the batteries by starting the engine, that produces hot water. We usually run the water-maker during this period also.