Boating is going green — or at least solar.
That’s the trend Patrick Tasse has noticed in the last four years he’s been selling solar panels for boats.
“I have a 36-foot bridge and four 11-watt panels on the boat,” said the Severn resident and owner of the franchise SunTech Solar. “That provides up to 25 amps in the full sun. That allows us to run two fridges, water pump, a TV, lights and all the outlets.”
Since he started providing this greener solution to boaters, he says he’s noticed an increase in interest from boat owners. It’s partly because he gets to have an informative conversation about the benefits of having solar panels on a boat.
“You don’t have to lug a portable generator, extension cords, and cans,” said Tasse. “And you don’t have to deal with the carbon monoxide on the boat or the noise of the generator.”
And this form of technology is improving every year, he added.
“It’s only a matter of time when better technology and batteries will be running boats,” he said. “We have to take care of Mother Nature. It’s important for me that my son gets the same water quality as I did.”
Greener practices weren’t the only features at the 30th annual Spring Boat Cottage and Outdoor Show, said organizer Doug Bunker.
“We have got a good mix of lifestyle, products, health and wellness, and new technology in boating and water sports,” he said, referencing a motorized surfboard that was a big draw for people.
The 70 vendors lined along the boardwalk were equaled by the 70 boats that were up for sale and on the water as part of the show.
Bunker said most of the boats for sale are new, because the inventory for used ones has become limited.
He said he was happy to see hundreds of people out and about enjoying the sun and the variety of products, food, and vendors at the show.
That’s one feature of the show Barbara Rumsey likes.
“It’s fabulous,” she said, as she watched a flyboard demonstration by a vendor. “This type of thing brings lots of tourists to our city. If I lived outside of Orillia, I would be jealous because we have so much going on.”
