Write a commentSolar Sal 40, an electric powered 40 foot boat visits the H. Lee White Maritime Museum at Oswego, Sunday, July 9th.
They will be docked in the Maritime Museum's J. Richard Pfund Boating Center and offering free boat tours from 10-4 pm. Using green technology Dr. David Borton, worked with family members and a team of helpers to build this uniquely powered vessel.
The purpose of the Solar Sal Project is to demonstrate that solar-electric marine transportation is both practical and useful. She is also quiet, non-smelly, and carbon free. With solar fuel, “the tank is always full and it is always free.” Building Solar Sal required multiple types of woods, various tools, adhesives, coatings, solar photovoltaic panels, electric controls, motors, displays, and lots of volunteer labor skills. Operating the boat requires navigational skills, knowing the local waters, and knowing the ropes both literally and figuratively.
Sol has been traveling on the Erie Canal from Troy to Utica and on the Hudson River and is now making her way through the Oswego Canal. To date she has travelled 1,000 miles using solar energy, including a trip to the Adirondacks.
Borton will offer free trips in the Oswego Harbor during this event. Contact the Maritime Museum at (315) 342.0480 or visit www.hlwmm.org.
