Solar Powered Lighting Basics: An Essential Guide
Understanding Solar Powered Lighting Systems
Solar-powered lighting harnesses energy from the sun’s rays through photovoltaic cells in solar panels. Throughout the day, this energy is accumulated and stored in a battery, which then powers the lights during nighttime. The duration of illumination, based on a single day’s solar charge, depends on the efficiency of the solar panels and the capacity of the battery storage.
Solar Powered Lights Stay On When On-Grid Power Fails
Notably, solar power remains functional even when conventional, On-Grid power sources fail. This makes it a reliable choice for Off-Grid Security Lighting. Not only is solar energy a free and renewable source, but it also promotes green energy practices by producing zero carbon emissions. Furthermore, solar-powered systems are self-sufficient, eliminating the need for complex wiring, conduits, and trenching typically associated with ON-GRID power.
Capturing and Storing the Sun’s Energy as Electricity
The main components of a solar powered system are a solar panel, a battery & controller or solar generator which has both a battery to store the energy and a current controller. There are several Solar kits available which include the panel, controller, and the cables required.
Key Components of a Solar Powered System
• Solar Panel
Solar panels, available in various configurations, have wattage ratings that represent their power production under optimal sunlight and temperature conditions. To ensure consistent power supply, it’s advisable to have a 30-50% safety margin between your energy needs and the panel’s wattage output.
• Battery & Controller/Solar Generator
The stored energy from solar panels is held within batteries. A controller, or solar generator, manages the power load between the panel and battery, preventing overcharging and reverse current flow. While there are kits that combine these components for ease of installation, experienced users may prefer to source components individually.
• Solar Generators
These are combined units that store electricity generated by solar panels and serve as regulators. These often come with necessary cables for system setup.
Setting Up Your Solar Powered System
Whether you opt for a kit or assemble components separately, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines during installation. For those familiar with solar setups, individual component purchases offer flexibility in design.
Solar Powered IR & White LED Lights for Security Systems
Helios lights are tailor-made for Off-Grid Security Systems. With a versatile input voltage range of 9 to 28VDC, they are perfectly compatible with solar-powered setups. Moreover, Helios Lights come equipped with AXTON’s state-of-the-art features such as input/output ports, an automatic day/night sensor, and energy-efficient LEDs. With options available in 11, 25, and 56 Watts, HELIOS Series IR Illuminators & White Floodlights can deliver up to 1,200 feet of infrared light or a brilliant 9,500 lumens of white light (in the 56 Watt variant). For extra wide angles Helios also is available in 180˚, 270˚ or 360˚ Models with IR or White LED lights.
