Photovoltaic System to Cover Energy Demand for Tourist Activities in an Artisanal Fishing Boat

Abstract

Artisanal fishing is socially and economically important for coastal communities. However, the environmental crisis, pollution of the seas, and the depredation of marine resources have significantly decreased the productive capacity and profitability of artisanal fishermen. Therefore, new economic opportunities are beginning to be explored based on tourism, specifically fishing tourism, which revalues and explores artisanal fishermen's culture and knowledge. The present research performs the design, installation, and evaluation of a system of photovoltaic panels on an artisanal fishing boat as part of the adaptation that allows the development of tourist activities, which require the supply of electrical energy so that various equipment can function and effectively offer communication services, entertainment, food, comfort, and safety. The tests at sea demonstrate that it is possible to supply the new energy demand generated by tourist activities. The tests were carried out in winter (pessimistic conditions), and even so, it is possible to satisfy a demand for four tours, one of them at night.