Island homesteader builds solar-powered boat that hauls gear, crosses lake, and backs up house

An island homesteader converted a standard boat into a solar-powered craft meant to haul gear, cross a lake, and support off-grid electricity needs. Using an electric outboard, solar panels, and a battery system, the builder said the boat can run for more than seven hours and offers “free nautical miles” during testing. The core is a 24-volt battery bank made from two 12-volt, 300-amp-hour lithium batteries, providing more than 7.5 kilowatt-hours of storage. The setup also includes a 2-kilowatt inverter, a solar charge controller, an 86-pound-thrust electric motor, and two 275-watt panels mounted overhead. GPS readings showed about 8 kilometers per hour (around 5 mph), enough to cross the lake. The project emphasizes eliminating gasoline and engine maintenance while reducing exhaust exposure.