Solar Installation on 37 Pilot House

[grnelson98]

We are considering a solar installation to keep the house batteries up while at anchor without the generator running periodically. Most of the pictures of the installations I can find look like the panels were installed on the pilot house roof, a panel either side of the hatch, although I have seen some boats mount them on or above the Bimini. I would be interested to know what others have done; mounting locations for the panels, total wattage of the panels, and do you feel it is / was worth while. Based on my calculations I think we need 600-800watts to hold the house loads and top off the house batteries on a daily basis assuming the sun is shining. Our two biggest house loads are the refrigerator and Starlink when it is running. Thanks in advance.

 

[Bmarler]

Different boat, but same basic idea. I have a raised pilothouse and have two 385 watt panels up there.
Huge difference. I still run at a deficit, but I can easily last three or more days before having to start an engine.
My main draws are the same as yours, but also add in microwave and coffee maker usage. Inverter is on 24/7 too.