With ever-increasing power demands on today’s cruising yachts, Duncan Kent looks at lithium boat batteries and explains what’s needed to guarantee a safe and trouble-free system
How to install lithium boat batteries
For blue water cruising yachts, the modern solution to increasing electrical demand is to install a lithium-ion battery bank, particularly if one plans to eliminate the use of LPG for cooking.
However, lithium-ion installations can be complex and problematic, and if not done correctly can be a serious fire risk.
First and foremost, the only type of lithium-ion cell chemistry currently recommended as safe for use on board a boat is Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LiFePO4), usually abbreviated to LFP.
These cells are virtually fireproof in themselves, having been tested extensively by fire authorities in several countries, although they can still cause a fire (as can any…
How to install lithium boat batteries
