Sebastien,
This approach (whether the
solar panels and frame
work, are the actual "bimini top" itself, or they form an integral part of the bimini top, or simply attached to an existing bimini), has been done by many sailors/cruisers for years....(first one I saw was in late 90's...)
And, as solar panel prices have dropped significantly in the past few years, this approach is being seen more and more...
I started the design of my set-up (520 watts, over the bimini top) in 2005....and finally finished the
project in late 2006...
And, over the last 7 years or so, they've been thru ~ 12,000
offshore miles, including 2 Atlantic crossings, multiple full Gales, and 3 days
offshore thru Tropical Strom Olga (Dec 2007), plus multiple severe T-Storms with winds ~ 55kts....with no issues....
They are mounted out in the clear, with plenty of good airflow under them (a petty important point, as they get warm/hot in the midday sun, and NEED good airflow to maintain decent output)....and they are completely unshaded, (except for extreme early morning if sailing east, and extreme late afternoon/early evening if sailing west, when there is some shading from the
mainsail, depending on exact course / time of year)....
Have a look at an article and photos about my solar array
installation...
Solar Panels
Fair winds...
John
s/v Annie Laurie