|
"They're awfully expensive and their claims are a bit unrealistic IMHO..."
SD, they clarified their claims long long ago. And enlightened more than a few of us, in terms of how PWM systems charge more effectively, and panels that track the sun put out significantly more power. As documented by Sandia National Labs and other arguably objective sources. The total could be 10% more for the PWM (MPPT) charging system plus 20% for the properly aligned panels, easily 25% more power from the panels per day. Assuming you are there, onboard, to move the panels every hour or tack.
As to being expensive, well, sure, but you could say that YOUR BOAT IS EXPENSIVE, too. Surely, there's a reason you wouldn't sell your boat for $25,000, isn't there?
Would I write a check for a solarstik? Nah, not me, not now. Haven't bought a Ferrari lately, either. But if a wanted a bulletproof mount that could be installed clear outboard of the cockpit and left out in the worst of weather...I might scramble for that checkbook. I KNOW what top-quality welding costs, and there's a lot of very expensive work in that system. I doubt you could have a local shop fab one up to the same standard, at the same price.
A budget-buster for some folks, but a nice "did it once, won't have to do it again" solution for others.
|