When the Swiss rowing team 44west prepared for the World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic, they turned to SGS to ensure one critical system wouldn’t let them down – their solar power setup. With no backup energy source on board during the 4,800 km, fully unsupported journey, the crew’s navigation, communication, and essential equipment depended entirely on consistent solar performance.
Over 31 grueling days between La Gomera and Antigua, the team faced conditions that test even the toughest gear. Salt spray, humidity, UV exposure, vibration, and sudden temperature swings threatened to weaken the solar modules or compromise electrical safety.
Even a small drop in performance could have put the crew at risk. To avoid that, 44west worked with SGS to verify the reliability of their solar PV system before setting off.
SGS carried out a full testing program following IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 standards. Engineers performed visual inspections to spot any potential points for corrosion or water intrusion, insulation resistance checks to ensure electrical safety in a marine environment, and wet leakage current tests to confirm that the system would remain safe even under saturated conditions.
Performance tests measured maximum power and efficiency under standard conditions, while environmental simulations recreated the harsh realities of ocean life, salt-mist corrosion, sand abrasion, intense sunlight, and repeated humidity?freeze cycles. Together, these tests demonstrated that the panels could maintain output and integrity despite relentless exposure.
The results were clear, the PV system remained structurally sound, electrically safe, and consistently productive. Throughout the crossing, it generated around 1.2–1.5 kilowatt?hours per day, enough to run the navigation system, water desalination unit, and satellite communications.
In one memorable moment, after days of tough weather, the system even enabled a satellite phone call home, proof of just how dependable renewable energy can be in extreme conditions.
Thanks to SGS’s validation, the 44west crew could trust their solar setup completely. Instead of worrying about power availability, they were free to focus on performance, safety, and the incredible challenge ahead.
This collaboration highlights a broader point as solar power systems expand into extreme environments, from offshore platforms to remote, high?altitude installations, independent verification becomes vital.
SGS brings this assurance through its global network of labs and renewable energy expertise, offering testing for durability, performance, corrosion, and lifecycle reliability.
Whether for an ocean?crossing expedition or utility?scale energy project, SGS helps ensure that solar technology delivers dependable power wherever it’s needed most.
To Know More About Proving Solar Reliability: From 44west to Global Energy Systems, CLICK HERE
