Victron Energy Charger/Inverter
If generators are sized for a yacht’s multiple startup loads (think air conditioners), then they cannot run sufficiently loaded once past those moments of peak demand, which can shorten a genset’s working life. Yet a genset sized for normal running loads will be overwhelmed by multiple startups. Victron Energy, a Dutch inverter manufacturer, has a neat solution: Its Quattro and MultiPlus charger/inverters have a power-assist feature to prevent overloading. They cease charging and instead “borrow” energy from the batteries to meet demand. Once past the peak, the Victrons resume charging to repay the loan. In the event of a grid failure or genset breakdown, the inverter function delivers true-sine wave power in less than 20 milliseconds, allowing electronic equipment to operate without interruption. Prices start at $1,000. Victron North America, (207) 354-0493; www.victronenergy.com
