The importance of a reliable electrical system on board

An onboard electrical system is more than just a way to power equipment – it is a prerequisite for safety, comfort, and functionality, especially during longer trips or in tougher conditions. From navigation instruments and lighting to refrigerators and charging electronics, the power supply is crucial for the boat to function as a safe base.

Building an efficient and safe electrical system requires careful consideration of all components: the right battery bank, charging sources, power distribution, cable sizing, and protection. Each component plays an important role, and the choice of products must be based on the boat's specific needs and applications.

This guide is designed to provide you with in-depth information on every aspect of onboard power supply, so you can make informed decisions whether you are installing a new system or upgrading an existing one.

 

1. Battery bank: The foundation of your electrical system

What is the battery bank and why is it important?

The battery bank serves as an energy reserve and is crucial for powering all electrical equipment on board when shore power or generator is not available. Choosing the right battery bank and sizing it correctly is the first step in building a sustainable electrical system.

A. Battery types: What options are available?

Depending on budget, energy needs, and weight requirements, there are several types of batteries to choose from:

1. Lead-acid batteries:
• AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat):
  AGM batteries are an upgrade from traditional lead batteries and have higher capacity and better durability.
• Advantages: Affordable, robust, and maintenance-free. Handles high power consumers well.
• Disadvantages: Has lower energy density than lithium and is sensitive to deep discharging.
• Suitable for: Smaller systems or boats with moderate energy needs where cost-effectiveness is prioritized.
• GEL batteries:
  GEL batteries are designed for slow discharges and handle cyclic use better than AGM.
• Advantages: Longer lifespan than AGM and good for loads with consistent consumption.
• Disadvantages: More expensive than AGM and charges more slowly.
• Suitable for: Medium-sized boats or systems with longer operating times.
2. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄):
   This battery type is the most advanced and is increasingly used in marine applications due to its many advantages:
• Benefits:
• Up to 5000 charging cycles.
• High energy density and very low weight.
• Handles deep discharges and charges quickly.
• Longer lifespan and high efficiency.
• Disadvantages:
• High purchase price.
• Requires advanced battery management (Battery Management System, BMS) to operate safely.
• Suitable for:
• Larger boats, long-distance sailors, or systems with high demands for weight and performance.

B. How do you size a battery bank?

The size of the battery bank determines how long you can run your boat without charging, and the sizing is based on your daily energy consumption.

1. Calculation of energy needs:
   Make a list of all electrical consumers on board, their power requirements (W), and average daily usage time (h). Multiply W by h to get the consumption in Wh (watt-hours).
• Example:
• Navigation lights: 10W x 12h = 120Wh.
• Refrigerator: 60W x 10h = 600Wh.
• LED lighting: 5 lamps x 10W x 5h = 250Wh.
• Total daily consumption: 970Wh.
2. Adjust battery capacity to consumption:
   The size of the battery bank depends on the type of batteries you are using:
• AGM/GEL: Only 50% of the capacity is usable to avoid deep discharge.
• Calculation: 970Wh x 2 = 1940Wh ≈ 160Ah at 12V.
• Lithium: Up to 90% of the capacity can be used.
• Calculation: 970Wh x 1.1 = 1067Wh ≈ 90Ah at 12V.
3. More battery banks:
   For larger boats, it may be beneficial to have separate battery banks for different functions, e.g. starting battery, service battery, and navigation equipment.

C. Maintenance and lifespan

1. Charging profiles:
   Batteries must be charged with the correct voltage and current to maximize lifespan. Victron chargers offer adaptive charging profiles that adjust to the battery type.
2. Temperature management:
   Batteries are negatively affected by extreme heat or cold. Install the batteries in a well-ventilated environment and use temperature sensors as needed.

 

 

Here is point 2: Charging Sources complete and detailed, including all important aspects from previous versions and the suggestions you provided. This version includes shore power, solar energy, generators and their optimization in a balanced system, as well as protection and integration with other components.

2. Charging sources: Safe and flexible energy supply

A robust charging system on board combines multiple energy sources to meet various needs under changing conditions. Here we go through the main charging sources: shore power, solar energy, and generators, as well as how they can be optimized and protected to ensure safe and efficient operation.

A. Shore power

1. Simple battery chargers for smaller systems

Victron Blue Smart chargers are ideal for smaller boats or low energy consumption systems:

• Models: Blue Smart IP22 (up to 30A) and IP65 (up to 25A).
• Features:
• Customizable charging profiles for different battery types, including lithium.
• Bluetooth monitoring via VictronConnect to adjust charging parameters and view status in real time.
• Protection against overheating, short circuits, and reverse polarity.
• Suitable for: Smaller boats, backup charging, or as a complement to generators and solar panels.

2. Advanced chargers/inverters for larger systems

For medium to large systems, Victron MultiPlus and Quattro offer a combined solution with charger and inverter:

• MultiPlus: One AC input (e.g., shore power or generator).
• Quattro: Two AC inputs, allowing flexible switching between generator and shore power.
• Features:
• Charging capacity up to 120A, depending on the model.
• Adaptive charging optimizes charging profiles for different battery types.
• Seamless switching between AC and DC loads without interruption.
• Suitable for: Systems that require both DC and AC charging, with a need for continuous operation for AC loads.

3. Protection with shore power

• Isolation transformers:
• Creates electrical isolation between the boat and the shore power network, eliminating galvanic currents and protecting the boat from voltage variations and electrical disturbances.
• Victron models: Capacities from 2000W to 7000W, with some models allowing voltage switching between 120V and 230V.
• Suitable for: Boats that frequently connect to shore power networks in various ports.
• Galvanic isolators:
• Blocks low galvanic currents to protect against corrosion in the hull and metal components.
• Less protection than isolation transformers, but an affordable option for smaller boats.

B. Solar energy

Solar energy is an important component in modern charging systems, especially for sailboats and long-distance boats that are often away from shore power.

1. Types of solar panels

• Monocrystalline panels:
• Higher efficiency and better performance in low light.
• Suitable for: Boats with limited mounting space.
• Polycrystalline panels:
• Adds cost-effectiveness, but slightly lower efficiency.
• Suitable for: Larger boats with plenty of space for panels.

2. MPPT charge controllers

Victron's MPPT regulators maximize energy extraction from the solar panels:

• Models: SmartSolar (with Bluetooth) and BlueSolar.
• Function: Adjusts the panel's voltage and current to the battery bank's needs to reach maximum power point.
• Suitable for: All battery types, including lithium.

3. Sizing of solar energy

• Calculate the capacity based on your daily energy needs and average sunlight hours:
• Example:
• Daily energy requirement: 970Wh.
• Sun hours: 5h/day.
• Necessary panel capacity: 970Wh ÷ 5h = 200W.

C. Generators

Generators are a fast and powerful charging source, especially during high energy consumption or bad weather.

1. Relays: Cyrix series

• Function: Cyrix relays connect starter and service batteries when the voltage reaches a certain level and isolate them at low voltage.
• Benefits:
• No energy loss during charging.
• Easy installation without the need for configuration.
• Limitations:
• No custom charging profile, making them less suitable for lithium batteries.

2. DC-DC charger: Orion-Tr Smart

• Function: Takes incoming voltage from the generator and converts it to an exact charging profile for service batteries.
• Benefits:
• Necessary for lithium batteries and systems with different battery types or voltages.
• Adjustable output voltage and Bluetooth monitoring.
• Disadvantages:
• Less efficient than relays due to energy loss during conversion.

3. Generators with inverter/charger

• MultiPlus and Quattro: Can be used to optimize generator charging by managing charging profiles while simultaneously powering AC loads.
• Example: A 5kW generator can charge a 500Ah battery bank via a Quattro while simultaneously powering AC loads such as a refrigerator or air conditioning.

D. Combine charging sources for a balanced system

A balanced system uses multiple charging sources to optimize efficiency and ensure you always have access to energy.

1. Solar energy for base load:
   Solar panels can handle continuous loads such as refrigerators and lighting during the day.
2. Generator for high load:
   Generators are best used to quickly replenish the battery bank, especially during higher energy demands such as kettles or electric winches.
3. Shore power as backup:
   When the boat is in port, shore power is used to slowly charge the batteries and run AC loads without straining the generator.

 

 

3. Power distribution and protection: Ensure safe and efficient operation

Power distribution and protection are crucial to ensure that the boat's electrical system operates safely and efficiently. With the right components and design, you can protect the system from overload, short circuits, and electrical hazards while making it easy to maintain and monitor.

A. Power distribution: Efficient power management

Power distribution organizes the flow of energy from the battery bank and charging sources to various consumers. A good system ensures that the right current reaches the right place without voltage drops or risk of overheating.

1. DC power distribution

The DC system is the core of the boat's electrical system and powers most of the electrical equipment, including navigation lights, pumps, and refrigerators.

• Victron Lynx series:
  A modular and flexible system for DC distribution, designed to handle complex systems with multiple loads and higher current requirements.
• Lynx Power In: Takes in main power from the battery bank.
• Lynx Distributor: Distributes power to various loads and includes fuses for each circuit as well as visual monitoring of their status.
• Lynx Shunt VE.Can: An advanced shunt that measures current and voltage and sends data to Victron monitoring devices, such as Cerbo GX.
• Simpler options:
  For smaller systems or simpler installations, you can use terminal blocks from manufacturers like BEP Marine or Blue Sea Systems. These offer:
• Practical solutions for connecting and distributing power.
• Easily accessible connections without advanced integration.
• Suitable for boats with fewer loads or lower current requirements.

2. AC power distribution

AC systems are primarily used on boats with larger loads or the need for household power for equipment such as kettles, microwaves, or air conditioning.

• AC panels and distribution:
• Collects and distributes power from the inverter/charger or shore power to various AC loads.
• Equipped with residual current devices (RCD) and circuit breakers to protect against short circuits and overloads.
• Inverter/charger as the central point:
  Victron MultiPlus and Quattro can handle both AC and DC power distribution by combining chargers and inverters in one unit.

B. Fuses and breakers: The system's safety net

Fuses and breakers protect the system from overcurrent, short circuits, and potential fire hazards. They are critical for both safety and operational reliability.

1. Fuses

Fuses are used to protect cables and equipment from damage due to overcurrent.

• Types of fuses:
• ANL fuses: For high current applications between the battery bank and inverter/charger. Capacity: 50A–750A.
• MIDI fuses: For medium loads such as pumps and refrigerators. Capacity: 30A–200A.
• Mega fuses: For medium to large systems, including main power circuits. Capacity: 100A–500A.
• Blade fuses: Used for smaller loads such as lighting and navigation equipment. Capacity: 1A–30A.
• How to choose the right fuse?

1.                                      Match the fuse to the current rating of the circuit: The fuse should be rated at 125–150 % of the cable's current capacity.

2.                                      Place fuses near power sources, such as battery banks, to protect the entire cable.

2. Breaker

Breakers are used to manually or automatically isolate loads and protect against overcurrent.

• Manual breakers:
• Used to disconnect power to all or parts of the system during service or emergencies.
• Example: Blue Sea Systems main switch for battery banks.
• Automatic breakers:
• Automatically resets after overload.
• Often used for critical systems, such as generator charging and electric winches.

C. Protection: Enhance the safety of the electrical system

In addition to fuses and breakers, it is important to include specialized protective components that prevent electrical hazards and corrosion.

1. Protection against electrical hazards

• Residual current device (RCD):
• Protects against electric shocks by breaking the current in case of leakage currents.
• A requirement in all modern AC systems.
• Automatic transfer switches (ATS):
• Quick switching between generator and shore power without affecting sensitive electronics.
• Example: Victron Filax 2.

2. Corrosion protection

Galvanic corrosion is a common challenge in marine environments where electrical currents can damage the hull and metal components.

• Galvanic isolators:
• Blocks small galvanic currents from the shore power network.
• Suitable for: Smaller boats or boats connecting to well-maintained shore power networks.
• Isolation transformers:
• Complete electrical isolation from the shore power network.
• Protects against galvanic corrosion, voltage variations, and electrical disturbances.
• Example: Victron Isolation Transformers (2000W–7000W).

 

4. Battery monitoring and system control: Gain full control over your energy usage

Battery monitoring and system control are crucial for optimizing the boat's electrical system and maximizing the battery bank's lifespan. With the right monitoring solutions, you can easily track power consumption, charging status, and identify potential issues before they affect the system.

A. What is battery monitoring and why is it important?

Battery monitoring is about keeping track of the battery bank's status in real-time, including:

• Voltage (V): How much energy is available.
• Current (A): How much energy is being consumed or charged.
• Consumed Ah: Energy drawn from the battery since the last full charge.
• Remaining capacity (%): An estimate of how much energy is left based on current consumption patterns.

Benefits of battery monitoring:

1. Prevent deep discharges that can damage the batteries.
2. Optimize charging cycles for longer lifespan.
3. Identify energy-consuming loads.
4. Simplify troubleshooting during operational disturbances.

B. Battery monitors from Victron Energy

1. BMV-700 series

The BMV-700 series are high-precision monitors designed for all battery types.

• BMV-712 Smart:
• Has built-in Bluetooth for monitoring via VictronConnect.
• Displays details such as remaining capacity (%), voltage, and current directly on a display or in the app.
• Perfect for systems where both physical display and app-based monitoring are needed.
• BMV-702:
• Has the ability to monitor an additional voltage, e.g., the starter battery, to provide a more comprehensive picture of the system.

Benefits:

• Easy to install and configure.
• Accurate measurement of battery status and energy flows.
• Fits all battery types, including lithium.

2. SmartShunt

SmartShunt is a minimalist solution for battery monitoring that works without a physical display.

• Features:
• Fully integrates with VictronConnect via Bluetooth.
• Same functionality as BMV-712 but without an external screen.
• Compact and easy to install.
• Suitable for:
• More modern systems where app-based monitoring is preferred.
• Space-constrained installations.

3. Choice between BMV and SmartShunt

• BMV series:
• Physical user interface (display) and app integration.
• Perfect for users who want quick access to data without using a phone.
• SmartShunt:
• Minimalist design without a display.
• Perfect for boats where space or simplicity is prioritized.

C. System control: Centralized management

System control is about monitoring and managing the entire electrical system from a central point. Victron Energy offers advanced solutions to give you full control over all aspects of the system.

1. Cerbo GX

Cerbo GX is the heart of Victron Energy's monitoring solutions and acts as a communication hub:

• Features:
• Collects data from all connected Victron devices (e.g., MultiPlus, SmartSolar, BMV).
• Enables monitoring and controlling the system in real time.
• Can be used with GX Touch display or via VRM Portal for remote monitoring.
• Features:
• Display energy flows in real time.
• Manage charging profiles for different battery types.
• Perform troubleshooting and optimize the system.

2. GX Touch screen

GX Touch is a touchscreen connected to Cerbo GX to provide a local visual overview of the system's status:

• Sizes: Available in 5" and 7" versions.
• Suitable for: Users who want quick access to data without needing to use a mobile or computer.

3. VRM Portal

VRM (Victron Remote Management) is Victron's cloud-based monitoring platform:

• Features:
• Remote monitoring of the system from any location.
• Create reports on energy consumption and charging history.
• Send alerts in case of problems, such as low battery voltage or overload.
• Suitable for: Boats used for long trips or where the owner wants to monitor the system from land.

D. How monitoring optimizes the system

Integrating battery monitoring and system control not only enhances safety but also improves the efficiency of the electrical system. Here are some examples of how this makes a difference:

1. Automatic warning for low battery voltage: Prevents deep discharge and protects the batteries.
2. Tracking charging cycles: Helps you understand how often you charge the batteries and identify improvement opportunities.
3. Monitoring solar and generator charging: Provides a clear picture of how much energy each source contributes.

 

5. Cable Sizing: Ensure Safety and Efficiency

Proper cable sizing is one of the most important factors in creating a safe and efficient electrical system on board. Incorrectly sized cables can lead to voltage drops, overheating, and in the worst case, fire. This section covers everything you need to know to choose the right cables and understand their significance.

A. Why is cable sizing important?

Cables transport energy from batteries and charging sources to consumers. If the cable is not properly sized for the current and length, the following problems may arise:

1. Voltage drop: When the cable is too thin for the current flowing through it, the voltage at the consumer decreases, which can cause operational issues.
2. Overheating: A cable that is too small can overheat, increasing the risk of fire.
3. Power loss: Energy is wasted as heat in the cable, reducing the system's efficiency.

B. How do you correctly size cables?

To size a cable, you must consider the following:

1. Current (A):
• The amount of current the cable must handle. Calculated based on the consumer's power needs (W) and the system's voltage (V):
• Formula: Current (A) = Power (W) ÷ Voltage (V).
• Example: A consumer drawing 120W in a 12V system requires 120 ÷ 12 = 10A.
2. Cable length (m):
• The length of the cable affects the resistance and thus the voltage drop. The longer the cable, the larger diameter is needed.
• Length counts as double distance: From the power source to the consumer and back.
3. Allowed voltage drop (%):
• In marine systems, a voltage drop of max 3 % is usually accepted. For sensitive loads, such as navigation equipment, even lower voltage drops may be required.
4. Material:
• Tinned copper: Recommended for marine environments as it is corrosion-resistant and has low resistance.
• Aluminum cables: Cheaper but less efficient and harder to install.

C. Use of sizing tools

To simplify the sizing, you can use guides and tools such as Victron's "Wiring Unlimited" manual or cable sizing tables.

Example: Sizing a cable

• Conditions:
• Current: 50A.
• Cable length: 10 meters (to and fro = 20 meters).
• Allowed voltage drop: 3 %.
• Calculation: According to sizing tables, a cable with a cross-sectional area of at least 25 mm² is required.

D. Cable sizing for different applications

1. Main current cables

• Requirements:
• Handles high current between the battery bank and large consumers such as inverter/charger.
• Typical current range: 50A–300A.
• Recommended cable:
• 35–95 mm² depending on current strength and length.

2. Medium current loads

• Requirements:
• Examples: Refrigerators, pumps, and lighting.
• Typical current range: 10A–50A.
• Recommended cable:
• 6–25 mm² depending on distance.

3. Small loads

• Requirements:
• Examples: LED lighting, USB chargers, and small navigation devices.
• Typical current range: 1A–10A.
• Recommended cable:
• 0.75–4 mm² depending on distance.

E. Cable Installation

1. Protect the cables:
• Use cable trays or protective covers to prevent mechanical damage and minimize corrosion risk.
2. Secure cables properly:
• Cable clamps should be placed at regular intervals to avoid vibrations and wear.
3. Avoid sharp bends:
• Cables should be routed in gentle curves to prevent damage to the insulation.

 

6. System Monitoring: Monitor the entire system from a central point

System monitoring is a critical part of a modern electrical system on board. With the right monitoring solutions, you can not only get a real-time view of energy flows and battery status but also control and optimize the system's functionality. It provides security and improves the system's efficiency.

A. What is system monitoring?

System monitoring means collecting data from all key components in the electrical system and displaying it in a clear interface, either locally or remotely. This includes:

• Battery status (capacity, voltage, charging status).
• Performance of charging sources (generator, solar panels, shore power).
• Energy consumption for different loads.
• Alarms and alerts for deviations in the system.

Benefits of system monitoring:

1. Simplified troubleshooting during operational disturbances.
2. Ability to optimize energy usage.
3. Increased security through alerts for issues such as low battery voltage or overload.
4. Remote control and monitoring via the internet.

B. Victron's solutions for system monitoring

1. Cerbo GX: The brain of the system

Cerbo GX is a central unit that communicates with all Victron components in the system and collects data.

• Features:
• Connects devices such as MultiPlus/Quattro, SmartSolar, BMV monitors, and Orion-Tr DC-DC chargers.
• Displays real-time data on energy flows, battery status, and charging sources.
• Can be configured to optimize charging profiles and control relays for various functions.
• Used with GX Touch screen or via VRM Portal.
• Compatibility:
  Cerbo GX works with both Victron devices and third-party components such as temperature sensors, tank gauges, and AC sensors.

2. GX Touch: Simple local control

GX Touch is a touchscreen that connects to Cerbo GX and provides the user with an overview of the system directly on board.

• Features:
• Clear display for real-time data on batteries, charging, and consumption.
• Available in sizes of 5" and 7".
• Designed for easy installation in dashboards.
• Suitable for:
• Users who want a simple local control point without needing to use a mobile or computer.

3. VRM Portal: Remote monitoring and reporting

VRM (Victron Remote Management) is a cloud-based platform that allows you to monitor and control the system from anywhere with an internet connection.

• Features:
• Display real-time data and history for energy flows, charging, and consumption.
• Create custom reports on energy usage and system status.
• Send alerts in case of problems, such as low battery voltage or overload.
• Available via browser or the VRM app.
• Benefits:
• Perfect for remote monitoring of boats used for long trips or charters.
• Provides full control and security even when you are not on board.

4. Smart relay control and automation

With the help of Cerbo GX, you can program relays to automate functions in the system:

• Example of automation:
• Turn off non-critical loads when the battery reaches a low voltage.
• Automatically start a generator when the battery needs charging.
• Switch between different charging sources depending on availability and needs.

C. Complementary system features

1. Tank and temperature measurement

Cerbo GX can be integrated with sensors to monitor:

• Tank levels: For fuel, fresh water, and gray water.
• Temperature: For battery banks, engines, or other critical components.

2. AC sensors

• Used to monitor AC charging and consumption.
• Perfect for understanding how much energy is used from shore power or generator.

D. Examples of system configurations

1. Smaller boats with basic needs

• Components:
• SmartShunt or BMV-712 for battery monitoring.
• GX Touch for local control of energy flows.
• Usage:
• Simple control and monitoring of battery bank and charging sources.

2. Medium-sized boats with more loads

• Components:
• Cerbo GX as a central monitoring unit.
• GX Touch 5" for local control.
• VRM Portal for remote monitoring.
• Usage:
• Manage multiple charging sources (shore power, solar energy, generator) and monitor critical loads such as refrigerators and navigation equipment.

3. Large boats and long-distance boats

• Components:
• Cerbo GX for advanced monitoring and control.
• GX Touch 7" for clear display of system status.
• VRM Portal for remote monitoring.
• AC sensors to monitor shore power and generator performance.
• Usage:
• Maximize the system's efficiency and gain complete control over all energy flows.
• Program relays to automate critical functions, such as generator start or load management.

 

7. Protective components: Enhance the safety of your electrical system

Protective components are crucial to ensure that the boat's electrical system operates safely and reliably. These devices protect against issues such as short circuits, galvanic corrosion, and voltage fluctuations. Here we go through the most important protections and explain them in an easy-to-understand way.

A. What is an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?

An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) automatically switches between different power sources, such as shore power, generator, and inverter. This ensures that the boat's electrical system can always be powered without you having to manually change anything.

How does ATS work?

• If you have shore power connected, it is used as the primary power source.
• If shore power goes out, for example during a power outage in the harbor, the ATS automatically switches to another source, such as the generator or an inverter.
• The switching occurs quickly to minimize disruptions to equipment, such as refrigerators or navigation systems.

Is there ATS in MultiPlus and Quattro?

Yes, Victron MultiPlus and Quattro have a built-in ATS function. This means they can automatically switch between shore power and batteries or generator without you needing to install a separate switch.

• MultiPlus: One AC input, perfect for systems that need to switch between shore power and inverter.
• Quattro: Two AC inputs, making it ideal for boats that use both shore power and a generator.

B. Other important protective components

1. Galvanic isolators

• What do they do?
  They block small electrical currents that can cause corrosion on the boat's hull and metal components, such as the propeller and rudder.
• When are they needed?
  If you often connect to shore power in ports with uncertain or older electrical systems.
• A simpler protection: A galvanic isolator is inexpensive and easy to install.
• Recommended product: Victron Galvanic Isolator VE series.

2. Isolation transformers

• What do they do?
  They provide full electrical isolation between the boat and the shore power network. This protects against both galvanic corrosion and voltage variations that can damage sensitive equipment.
• When are they needed?
  For boats that often connect to varying or uncertain shore power networks, especially in international ports.
• Recommended product: Victron Isolation Transformers (2000W–7000W).

3. RCDs

• What do they do?
  An RCD cuts off the power if it detects that electricity is leaking to the ground. This protects against electric shocks and is a requirement in modern electrical systems.
• When are they needed?
  In all AC systems, especially if you have sensitive equipment or work with high currents.
• Recommended product: Blue Sea Systems AC panels with built-in RCDs.

 

Summary: Build a safe and efficient electrical system on board

A well-functioning electrical system is the foundation for both safety and comfort on board. The heart of the system is the battery bank, which must be sized to meet the boat's energy needs. AGM and GEL batteries offer affordable and reliable options for smaller systems, while lithium batteries provide superior performance, longer lifespan, and faster charging, making them ideal for modern and advanced installations.

Charging sources such as shore power, solar panels, and generators should be integrated to ensure that the batteries are always charged. Shore power is a stable energy source in port and can be protected with galvanic isolators or isolation transformers to avoid corrosion. Solar panels provide quiet and environmentally friendly energy, while generators offer quick charging during longer trips or high energy consumption. For smooth switching between power sources, Victron's MultiPlus or Quattro is used, which has a built-in automatic transfer switch (ATS).

Power distribution and protection are crucial for the system's safety and functionality. Modularity, like the Victron Lynx series, suits advanced installations, while simpler solutions like BEP and Blue Sea Systems terminal blocks are ideal for smaller boats. Fuses and circuit breakers protect the system from short circuits and overloads, while proper cable sizing prevents voltage drops and overheating. To protect against electrical disturbances and galvanic corrosion, isolation transformers and galvanic isolators are important components.

Battery monitoring and system control are central to optimizing operation and maintenance. Cerbo GX and SmartShunt from Victron provide full control over energy flows and system status, both locally and remotely via the VRM Portal. The right choice of components, combined with careful planning, results in a safe, sustainable, and efficient electrical system that meets the boat's demands in all conditions.