“Alternative Power”?
Notable changes for Winter Field Day 2025
· Event times have changed, and the event has been extended beyond 24 hours.
· Locations do not have to remain fixed during the entire event.
· Objectives (previously called bonuses) are now multipliers.
· Several objectives have been added.
The 2025 rules say:
Operate 100% on alternative power: Operate exclusively on alternative power, defined as any power source not connected to the commercial power grid. You may use generators, batteries, solar power, wind power, or anything else. All batteries, whether in use or charging, should only be recharged using alternative power. WFD stations should run all station equipment, accessories, or heaters from an alternate power source. Logging-only computers or lights are the exception, and they may be connected to the power grid or any power source available. If you use a laptop for digital modes, it should not be connected to the power grid but also be plugged into an alternative power source. OM x1
So, according to this, there are no bonus points for operating on alternative power as the multiplier is one, which is no increase in points.
Because of this lack of bonus points I will not be operating from alternative power. I will use my 12 Volt 100 AH battery with its AC charger plugged into a power grid outlet like I did last year. The year before I ran my charger from my electric vehicle but as there are no bonus points for 2025 it isn’t worth the effort for me. I know that in a pinch I can operate from my vehicle’s power.
We can’t claim that we Operate 100% on alternative power unless all stations do so.
Comments?
Charles WA5VHU