Solar capacity totals around 1.5 kilowatts
Manu carries flexible solar panels producing up to 1,000 watts together with a rigid 500-watt panel mounted on stern davits. The aft mounting position helps keep the rigid panel away from some of the shading created by sails and rigging during normal sailing.
For a cruising yacht, panel placement can be as important as nominal capacity. Even a large array can deliver disappointing output when sections are repeatedly shaded, so spreading generation across different locations can help maintain useful charging through more of the day.
Two MPPT controllers feed a 25.6-volt lithium bank
Victron says the solar array is managed by two BlueSolar MPPT 75/15 charge controllers. Energy is stored in two 25.6-volt lithium batteries rated at 150 Ah each, creating a battery system intended to support navigation, communications and domestic loads while the yacht remains under sail.
The onboard consumers include electronic charts, weather information, a B&G autopilot, Starlink Mini, refrigeration, pumps, lighting, audio equipment and an electric windlass. That mix reflects the increasingly high electrical demand found on modern cruising yachts even when propulsion remains sail-powered.
Engine use was kept to a minimum on the latest voyage
Hughes’ stated aim is to power his onboard equipment primarily from solar energy and reserve the engine and alternator for emergencies. Victron reports that during his latest circumnavigation he started the engine only twice, indicating how far a carefully managed renewable-energy system can reduce dependence on diesel charging.
That does not mean every yacht can duplicate the same operating pattern. Solar yield depends on climate, latitude, shading, battery capacity and daily load, while propulsion needs vary enormously. The installation is most useful as a real-world example of what can be achieved when energy generation, storage and consumption are planned together.
The case study is relevant to modern bluewater yacht design
Long-distance cruising yachts increasingly carry loads that were uncommon a generation ago, from satellite internet and large refrigeration systems to extensive digital navigation and entertainment equipment. That makes energy management a core design question rather than an optional technical detail.
For LYG owners, Manu’s installation shows one practical route: combine a substantial solar array with lithium storage and efficient charge control, then manage demand around available generation. The result can reduce generator or engine running time while preserving the systems owners now expect during extended periods away from shore power.
Official sources: www.victronenergy.com.
