A method and system for powering at least one switch provided on the steering wheel assembly of a marine vehicle. A rechargeable accumulator is provided in the steering wheel assembly. The switch is powered from the accumulator. An energy source is provided for recharging the accumulator. A detected energy level and/or a detected time elapsed is compared to a threshold value corresponding to the energy level being sufficient to power the switch and enable its use and determine if there is energy sufficiency or an energy insufficiency in the accumulator. If the comparison yields an energy insufficiency, the energy source is instructed to recharge the accumulator, and hence increase its energy level.