Compact Solar Power
The Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership runs an experimental aquaculture lease where they grow scallops and oysters. To power their on-water equipment, they installed a small solar system on their work float. Unlike the method that many oyster farms use to go solar (check out our other Innovations articles about solar-powered aquaculture!), this system is compact and designed to be flexible.
The solar system doesn’t take up much space. The entire set-up can fit on a corner or one side of the float. The system consists of a solar panel strapped to a waterproof box. The box contains the battery system and electronics, all of which are marine grade and designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. This simple design limits the number of parts in the system, which means there are fewer items to maintain and fix when problems arise.
Reliability and Flexibility
Most of the equipment powered by the solar cube is hard wired into the system. This provides reliability to the team and helps prevent problems from arising in the harsh marine environment. For times when the team needs to plug in an external device, there is also a 12V plug like those found in a car. This is good for powering small devices, like speakers, that are often used out on the float.
The Hurricane Island crew typically uses the power from their solar panel to power a washdown pump and electric winch for their mast and boom. The washdown pump provides them with a consistent water supply while cleaning or processing scallops, and the winch and boom allows them to move heavy scallop lantern nets and other gear effortlessly around the float.
Innovations articles highlight creative devices or methods on aquaculture farms. They are informed by farm visits and interviews with experienced growers. See our About page for more information.