Join retired RPI professor David Borton for a presentation on the future of solar energy in New Lebanon and for electric boats, specifically his own sun-powered vessel, Solar Sal.

 Named Solar Sal as a tribute to the iconic mule in the famous song, 'Fifteen Miles on the Erie Canal,' the 39-foot vessel is the brainchild of retired RPI professor Borton, who designed her propulsion system. Sal is powered by sixteen solar panels with a capacity of five kilowatts, making her a vessel 100% propelled by sustainable green energy. In September, Solar Sal journeyed down the Erie Canal to Mechanicville, New York, carrying a full load of cargo. She used no gas or oil and it was a historic voyage – the first cargo hauled by a 100% renewably powered source on the Erie Canal since the last draft animals were retired.  

David Borton is a 71-year-old Brunswick resident and solar energy advocate. He  taught solar engineering and physics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute before retiring to devote himself to Solar Sal.