OMO Off-Grid Solar Kits for Boat Docks - A Comprehensive Guide
Fueling the Move to Solar on Docks
Increasingly many agencies/authorities, local, state, and Federal have or are imposing and proposing solar mandates for boat docks on waterways they hold jurisdiction over. Citing things like safety, elimination of power poles and lines thus maintaining the natural shoreline environment, less power line problems on waterways formed by dam impoundments that can experience major level fluctuations due to drought or flood conditions.
Additionally, the allure of off-grid living has captured the imagination of many. Off-grid living represents a lifestyle choice that embraces self-sufficiency, sustainability, and/or a deep connection to nature. Whatever your reason, Ozark Mountain Offgrid can provide a solution to meet your boat dock needs.
In addition to regulation, advancements in technology is driving a move to solar. These technology changes have made it easier than ever to equip docks with renewable energy systems and other eco-friendly features. Solar panels and efficient compact battery storage solutions are becoming more accessible and affordable, further driving the adoption of solar for boat dock power.
Things to Consider with Solar Powered Docks
When permitted, traditionally docks have been powered via the grid by overhead or underground/water power line feeds. With these methods now coming under increased scrutiny by agencies such as the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) many dock owners are now looking at what is required to either swap their current grid-tied system over or to outfit a planned new dock with solar.
-
System Sizing: Power requirements can vary widely with personal single stall docks minimal needs to much larger power needs on multi-stall community docks. The first thing to consider is how much the peak load might be on a system serving your dock. This can be done by adding the expected loads to give you an average usage. OMO Solar can assist in determining a properly sized system with this information.
-
Adequate Space Allocation: While Off-Grid Boat Dock Kit sizes have started to shrink due to advances in lithium battery technology they do still require some space. While most covered docks possess ample roof space for solar panel array mounting. OMO seeks to maximize this space by incorporating
550W BiFacial Solar Panels in its systems, something most of our competition does not do. Instead many companies use much lower watt panels yielding less power from the same footprint. Owners also must consider batteries and associated inverters and controllers which require some deck and/or rail space for installation. This is something to consider, especially on community docks where owners each have a portion of a dock that they own. Deciding on a kit that meets your power needs then determining the space that equipment will take is critical. Also, predetermining the installation location relative to any existing grid power drops is important prior to purchase and installation. -
Permitting: When considering any new solar system or upgrade ensure you know and understand any permitting requirements for your area. Depending on your location, city, county, state and Federal requirements may apply. Be sure to apply and secure any permits prior to any system installation.
-
Installation: In addition to required permitting you also need to know and understand any additional installation requirements for your area. While our kits are designed to be installed by the DIY'er they do require some skill and knowledge of electrical installation. Additionally, some jurisdictions may not allow an owner to install their own system. Instead, requiring it be installed by someone properly certified/licensed to do so. If you need assistance with installation, Ozark Mountain Offgrid can provide professional installation services. Contact us to discuss your project and to get a custom installation quote.
-
Accessibility Issues: Remote locations, where Off-Grid Boat Dock Kits are likely to be used, often present challenging access conditions for installation. If you're planning on a DIY installation consider terrain and access with heavy and oversized; enclosures, batteries, solar array panels and associated rails and mounts.
Features That Make OMO Off-Grid Solar Boat Dock Kits
Your #1 Choice
OMO has engineered its Boat Dock Kits to high standards which incorporate several essential features to ensure years of trouble free service:
Durability: These kits are constructed with robust, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the rigors of remote and often harsh environments.
- High-quality weather and corrosion-resistant coated metal enclosures ensure longevity and minimal maintenance.
- 550W BiFacial Solar Panels with Double Glass. Bifacial technology enables additional energy harvesting from rear of panel (up to 25% more if mounted in Ground Mount Setup.) These will produce more power output in weak light conditions, such as cloudy, hazy or early morning conditions. These panels offer High Wind and snow resistance loads as well. 5400 PA Snow Load / 2400 PA Wind Load. They have a 30 Year Power Warranty
- Top quality Lithium Batteries with a 10 Year Warranty
Self-Sufficiency Support: New docks are equipped with features that support the self-sufficient lifestyle of off-grid dock owners. These include plug-and-play on some systems, easily accessible and available components for any required servicing.
If you're considering taking your boat dock off-grid for any reason, Ozark Mountain Offgrid can help. With new technology, cost, and sustainability driving significant advancements in the industry options exist for most applications. If you would like to know more about the Off-Grid Solar Boat Dock Kits feel free to contact us .