Solar Panel Mount Design Considerations

Top-of-Pole Solar Panel Mount

A top-of-pole mount is an excellent solution for maximizing the efficiency of your solar panel by keeping it optimally aligned with the sun's rays. Achieving a perpendicular angle between the panel's surface and sunlight significantly enhances its output. With an 85-watt panel, adjusting its position 3-4 times throughout a clear day can yield up to 40 amp-hours of power generation on the Great Lakes.

Our mount is designed for easy, tool-free adjustments. It features 13 tilt positions, allowing you to simply pull a pin, tilt the panel, and re-secure the pin to set the optimal angle. Mounted on a crane pole, the panel also rotates a full 360 degrees. A built-in pole locking mechanism prevents rotation on windy days, doubling as a brake to limit free movement when partial rotation is needed.

In our setup, the pole is attached to the stern rail, positioned away from the boom to avoid casting shadows that could reduce panel efficiency. It's mounted high enough to clear the bimini yet remains easy to reach for angle adjustments.

For top-of-pole installations, a 120-watt solar panel (approximately 31" x 48") is generally the maximum size recommended, limited by the strength of the stern rails that stabilize the pole. Larger panels would require additional bracing, such as support struts from the pole to the deck. While possible, larger setups are typically better suited to alternative mounting options, such as above the bimini, on dinghy davits, or directly on the stern rail.

Comparison of Mounting Options

Top-of-Pole Mount

  • Pros: Allows for optimal sun alignment, minimizes shadow interference, keeps the panel out of the way.
  • Cons: Size limitations due to pole stability.

Bimini Frame Mount

  • Pros: Suitable for larger panels, keeps the panel out of the way.
  • Cons: Limited adjustability for optimal sun angle; often affected by shadows from the boom, backstay, or topping lift.
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