Frequently asked questions for Boating
Why is red diesel being scrapped?
E.U regulations aimed to harmonise the tax rates on fuels and energy products now mean that as off the 1st November 2008 the UK will no longer be allowed to have different "red diesel" tax rates for water craft.
What does this ban on red diesel mean?
As of the 1st November 2008 it is a criminal offence to have red diesel on board for propulsion that you cannot prove was bought at the higher rate of diesel.
How will i fit a solar panel/panels to my boat?
Our panels are pre drilled with mounting holes, for any type of fitting you may require.
I have a steel narrow boat, how do i fit a solar panel?
With our magnet fitting systems, we can mount all panels in a very secure and durable way. NO DRILLING and very very strong.
(see our solar panel section for details)
The tow path/banks of the canal is sometimes shady, is this a problem for solar panels?
In an ideal world we would recommend that the panels should never be in the shade. However some of the panels feature bridging diodes to reduce the undesired effects of partial shading. Please ask for more information.
Why is solar power a good idea for boats?
Solar power (Photovaltaics) is ideally suited to boats because it is SILENT, Zero running cost, no moving parts and maintenance consists of cleaning the panels as and when they get dirty.
What solar power can i add to my boat?
We can supply anything from 10watt trickle charge panels for starter batteries all the way up to 1kw arrays(and higher where space permits) to generate power and significantly reduce generator use all year round, and yes all of these help reduce your diesel consumption.
Is it ok to leave solar panels out side all year round?
All our sol.ar panels have Low carbon toughened glass for extra tough duty. They will be happy outside forever.
Can i lay the panels directly on my boat?
Solar cells become significantly less efficient when they become hot so we always recommend an airgap between the frame and the boat for air to circulate through. (a 1cm gap is fine)
A common battle in the boating world, you will be pleased to know the panels are aluminium alloy and do not rust.