Solar panels fitted atop the wheelhouse.
The Association has been involved in multiple applications of solar energy in the fishing environment. One of the main costs of fishing is energy whether in kerosene for small outboard motor boats or diesel for larger fishing vessels. Fishing community members have noted that fishermen are running their engine continuously for charging batteries so that they have light at sea, and some fishermen keep running the engine to also prevent any restarting trouble because of poor electricity. Thoothoor fishermen are spending 70% of the total working capital requirement per voyage for buying fuel. If they are able to use solar energy technology, products and its services properly, they could save significant amount of fuel and money and avoid unnecessary emission of CO2. Having proper electrical supply also encourages fishers to use their lights all night which makes long journey’s safer.
ADSGAF has been involved in several trial runs, including one fitting a boat with a total of 1kw worth of solar panels atop the wheel house. This allowed the boat to operate 11 CFL lights, 5 tube lights, 4 focus lights, 1 GPS, 1 fish finder and 2 wireless VHF sets in the boat with energy to spare.
Other solar applications have involved in supplying solar lanterns to fish vendors and solar lantern/panel kits for traditional catamaran fishers.
Women selling fish with candles
Women selling fish with candles
Solar lantern at market
Solar lantern for traditional boat
Traditional boat with lantern
