High Outpur Alternator vs Wind Generator

[Cheechako]

Originally Posted by barnakiel

Get both.

1. I would always consider a good regulator prior to upgrading the alternator.

2. Seen more windgens broken than solar panels. Think if going solar is an option.

b.

Both is good setup. When the wind doesnt blow you have options. Also, nice the charge and run the fridge real cool when motoring. If you got the room and/or dont mind the clutter solar would be good in sunny lattitudes.

[Strygaldwir]

Solar panel, Still going after 15 years, MPPT, still going after 15 years. Wind generator, took it off, never put it back on. Sitting in my garage's rafter. Kipor Portable generator, lasted 13 years. Probably could have been fixed, but after running it for 5 straight days when we had a power outage at home, just seemed like time to get another one.

Like I stated before, this analysis was completely from a cruisers perspective. I have not been cruising in many years. When I am docked at the marina, nothing beats shore power. Way to cheap!!!

[Strygaldwir]

Solar panel, still going after 18 years, MPPT still going after 18 years. Still haven't put the wind generator back on.


Solar panels have gotten a lot more efficient and less expensive!!! I see people putting on 3600 watts worth now adays and running their AC on them. Looks like the analysis we put forth almost 20 years ago was valid. See a whole lot more catamarans out there too! But even the monohulls and trawlers have made effective use of solar.

Cheers,

Keith