2023 SOLTECH Solar Lighting Guide

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SOLTECH

Solar Lighting Guide

[ The Complete Solar Lighting Guide ] 2023 Version

SOLTECH Designs and Manufactures

Advanced, Solar-Powered LED Technology.

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ABSTRACT

Welcome to the SOLTECH Solar Lighting Guide, your go-to resource for understanding the fundamentals of solar-powered lighting solutions. Whether you’re a beginner exploring eco-friendly lighting options or a seasoned lighting expert looking to expand your knowledge, this guide will take you through the basics of solar lighting technology, its benefits, practical applications, and essential considerations for a successful solar lighting project. Get ready to shed light on a greener and brighter future with solar lighting!

Solar Lighting 101

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CONTENTS

CHAPTER

CHAPTER

CHAPTER

CHAPTER

CHAPTER

CHAPTER 07. Power Optimization: Solar Lighting Controllers and Drivers / 33

CHAPTER 08. FAQ / 37

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CHAPTER 01. Unlocking the Power of Solar Lighting / 07
02. Illuminating the Possibilities—Solar LED Lighting Applications / 11
03. Solar Lighting Cost-Savings / 17
04. Anatomy of Solar Lights / 21
05. LEDs and Lighting Type Breakdown / 25
LiFePO
06. Lithium-Iron Phosphate Batteries
4 —The Best Solar Battery Choice / 29

CHAPTER[ 01

Introduction:

Solar lighting offers a compelling alternative to traditional on-grid lighting systems. With its cost-effectiveness and numerous advantages, solar lighting has gained popularity in various lighting applications. In this chapter, we will explore the benefits of solar lighting and why it is an excellent choice for your lighting needs.

UNLOCKING THE POWER OF SOLAR LIGHTING ]

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ZONA FRANCA COYOL PHILIPS Parking Lot, COSTA RICA

Solar Lighting Guide [ The Complete Solar Lighting Guide ] 2023 Version

Cost-Effectiveness:

Solar lighting offers exceptional cost-effectiveness, setting it apart from traditional lighting systems. By eliminating the need for grid-tie connections and energy bills, solar lights provide substantial savings. Many corporations, businesses, cities, and other entities have realized significant upfront and long-term cost savings by adopting solar lighting solutions.

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Enhanced Security:

Solar lights provide a heightened sense of security, particularly during emergencies or power failures. As these lights operate independently of power grids, they remain functional when the grid fails. This reliability ensures that critical areas and pathways stay illuminated, promoting safety and security even in challenging circumstances.

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All-In-One Design

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Pathway Security Lighting Project Palm Academy, FL • HOW DO SOLTECH SOLAR LIGHTS WORK?
SATELIS 50W (01) (02) (03) Solar Panel Light Head Battery Pack
Solar Panel Design Example:
SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION
BATTERY STORAGE
NO WIRING & TRENCHING (01) (02) (03)
Example: SUNLIKE 30W Solar Panel Light Head Battery Pack
SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTION
BATTERY STORAGE
NO WIRING & TRENCHING

Versatility:

Solar lighting systems are incredibly versatile and can be deployed in various settings. Whether it’s remote areas, bustling cities, construction sites, parks, streetways, or other locations, solar lights can effectively illuminate the surroundings. Furthermore, certain models of solar lights are portable, offering the flexibility to move them wherever illumination is needed the most.

Eliminating Trenching and Cabling:

Unlike traditional lighting systems that require trenching for power connections, solar lighting systems eliminate the need for extensive groundwork. This characteristic is particularly crucial for parks and protected lands, as it helps preserve the integrity of the surrounding environment. By opting for solar lighting, you can ensure that the natural beauty of these areas remains unspoiled.

In the following chapters, we will delve deeper into the technical aspects, installation considerations, and explore different types of solar lighting options available, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your specific lighting requirements.

Freedom from Electricity Bills:

Solar lighting relieves you from the burden of electricity bills. By harnessing free electricity from the sun, solar panels power the lights without relying on external sources. The utilization of renewable solar energy not only significantly reduces operating costs but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly future.

• HOW TO SAVE BY GOING SOLAR? On-Grid VS Off-Grid

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Solar Lighting Guide
The Complete Solar Lighting Guide ] 2023 Version
[ Solar lighting offers a wide array of benefits, making it a compelling choice for diverse applications. Its cost-effectiveness, enhanced security, versatility, preservation of landscapes, and freedom from electricity bills set it apart from conventional lighting options.
]
On-Grid Fixtures Off-Grid Fixtures On-Grid LED Fixtures 41 SOLTECH FLK Area Light 150W Single Head Est. Using Lighting Layout And Scaled Drawing Estimated 7 Cent Power & 3% Utility Inflation Cost Is Based On A $19.50/lf. Price Includes Shipping 41 $1,728.46 4480 $87,360.00 $135,535.00 On-Grid LED Poles Estimated Annual Energy Cost Est. Underground Trenching (Feet) Underground Wiring Cost Total Traditional LED Bid (Including Poles and Trenching Cost) Off-Grid LED Fixtures 68 SOLTECH SUNLIKE 30W (30) Single Heads and (19) Double Heads Price Includes Shipping, 10% Lower Than Grid LED Fixtures Solution 26% Tax Credit Felt Cost After Receiving 26% Tax Credit 49 $122,440.00 $31,834.40 $90,605.60 Off-Grid LED Poles Gross Solar LED Bid Tax Credit Solar LED Bid Net Of ITC (After Tax Credit)

CHAPTER [ 02

Introduction:

Solar lighting exhibits remarkable versatility, offering solutions for a wide range of applications. In this chapter, we will explore major applications where solar LED lighting shines, benefiting businesses, municipalities, corporations, parks, and public spaces. From efficient installation to cost savings and environmental considerations, solar lighting presents numerous advantages in diverse settings.

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ILLUMINATING THE POSSIBILITIES—SOLAR LED LIGHTING APPLICATIONS

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ZONA FRANCA COYOL Parqueo MACOMA ZFC.SMC Parking Lot, COSTA RICA

Street Lighting

Street Lighting:

Municipalities often choose solar lighting for their streets due to its ease of installation and minimal disruption. Unlike traditional lighting, solar lights can be assembled and installed in a matter of hours, eliminating the need for road closures and disruptive construction sites. By opting for solar street lighting, communities can save significant amounts of money while keeping the surrounding grounds intact.

Parking Lot Lighting

Parking Lot Lighting:

Solar lighting provides an efficient solution for lighting parking lots, especially when quick deployment is necessary. With faster installation times, large-scale projects can be completed within a week’s time. This means less time is spent installing each fixture, resulting in completed projects in a fraction of the time. Solar lights can also be swiftly installed, preserving the integrity of the parking lot pavement. These lights enhance safety for commuters during nighttime, addressing security concerns effectively.

Park Lighting

Park Lighting:

When it comes to lighting parks, solar lighting stands out because of its minimal impact on the grounds and harmonious integration with nature. Solar lights are easy to work with, offering quick and clean installations, typically completed in a day. By utilizing the most efficient, naturally-sourced energy, solar lighting enhances the beauty and safety of parks.

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USANA Amphitheater, Utah Fletcher Park, Taylor, MI ZONA FRANCA COYOL PHILIPS, Costa Rica
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Military Base Solar Lighting

Military Base Solar Lighting: Often military bases, training centers, armories, and other facilities are in remote locations separate from the grid. Solar lights provide a reliable and efficient alternative by offering practical lighting with easy management. Motion sensors can also be integrated with solar lights to activate them at the first sign of movement, enhancing security. Additionally, programming capabilities ensure optimal functionality and performance even in secluded training areas.

Construction Lighting

Construction Lighting: Solar lights serve as indispensable lighting solutions for construction sites. Their quick and easy deployment eliminates the need for noisy and smelly generators, which require refueling. Solar lights can be conveniently left on location to recharge, offering a reliable lighting source without the hassle of traditional power options.

North Shores, MI

Security Lighting

Security Lighting:

Enhancing safety and deterring theft are top priorities for many, and solar lights paired with motion detectors provide an effective solution. These intelligent lighting systems offer on-demand illumination and contribute to overall security measures. By harnessing solar energy, the batteries charge throughout the day, ensuring a consistent power supply for the light fixtures during the night. Solar security lights find widespread applications in rural areas, effectively preventing vandalism and enhancing safety for all.

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Oltmans Construction Site Lighting, South CA Solar Security Lights Palm Academy, FL
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Airport Lighting:

Solar lighting solutions are essential in providing adequate illumination and enhancing safety within airport premises. Whether it’s a need for additional lighting on the tarmac or in specific areas where passengers navigate, such as walkways or parking areas, solar lights can be easily transported and deployed as needed. With portable solar lights and mobile solar towers, airports can effectively guide passengers safely to the terminal, even in scenarios where additional lighting is required due to nighttime releases or specific areas requiring enhanced visibility. The convenience, reliability, and portability of solar lighting make it an ideal choice for ensuring the safety and convenience of airport commuters.

Solar Retrofit Lighting

Solar Retrofit Lighting

For areas having existing poles with non-functional lights, solar retrofit lighting offers a convenient solution. As long as the poles meet durability and quality standards, the solar retrofit lighting process provides a hassle-free way to illuminate areas with existing poles. By installing solar lighting onto older structures such as poles, the transition to efficient and sustainable lighting is seamless and time-saving without compromising quality.

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Canopy, Mailbox, and Bus Stop Lighting

Canopy, Mailbox, and Bus Stop Lighting

Solar lighting options cater to specific applications, including canopies, mailboxes, and bus stops. These projects allow for customized solar lighting solutions that seamlessly integrate with the surroundings. Solar lighting becomes an obvious choice when trenching and wiring for power are impractical.

Solar Sign Lighting

Solar Sign Lighting

Businesses seeking cost-effective sign lighting solutions can turn to solar lighting. Illuminating signage near roadways is often challenging due to power availability and costly trenching. Solar lighting eliminates the need for permits and excessive trenching, offering a practical and visually appealing solution.

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CHAPTER [ 03

Introduction:

Solar-powered lighting offers not only environmental benefits but also significant economic advantages. In this chapter, we will explore the compelling economics of solar lighting, highlighting the cost-saving potential that makes it a financially savvy choice for individuals, businesses, and municipalities.

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SOLAR LIGHTING COST-SAVINGS

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Federal & State Incentives:

In addition to federal incentives, various state-specific incentives exist to further offset the costs of solar installations. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) website provides a comprehensive list of available financial benefits. Exploring these incentives can result in significant savings. Taking advantage of these opportunities ensures that you not only contribute to a greener future but also benefit from financial incentives.

No Trenching:

Traditional lighting installations often involve extensive trenching, cabling, and wiring, which can be costly and time-consuming. However, solar lighting eliminates these expenses altogether. By harnessing the power of photovoltaic technology, solar lights operate independently and do not require any trenching or wiring. As a result, customers have reported substantial savings amounting to thousands of dollars.

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Zero Energy Bills:

Unlike traditional lights that rely on grid electricity, solar lights generate their own electricity through photovoltaics. This means that throughout the entire lifespan of each solar light, there will be no monthly energy bills to pay. Traditional lighting can cost anywhere from $100-$300 per year in energy bills, making solar lighting a long-term cost savings solution.

Solar Power Economics:

The cost of solar power technology has seen a dramatic decrease since its initial introduction in the 1970s. Technological advancements have made solar lighting systems increasingly affordable and economically viable. As the technology continues to improve, competitive prices are expected to drop further, enhancing the overall economics of solar lighting. Comprehensive cost analysis has revealed that solar lighting systems can save owners an estimated $2,500 to $5,000 per system over the ownership period when compared to on-grid lighting alternatives. This significant cost-saving potential further solidifies solar lighting as a wise investment.

Solar lighting goes beyond environmental sustainability; it presents a compelling economic case as well. By eliminating the need for trenching, reducing energy bills to zero and capitalizing on financial incentives, solar lighting offers substantial cost savings. The ongoing decrease in solar power technology costs and the projected long-term returns on investment make solar lighting a financially sound choice for individuals, businesses, and municipalities alike. In the subsequent chapters, we will look into the technical aspects of solar lighting installation to explore innovative solutions that maximize both energy efficiency and economic benefits.

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CHAPTER

Introduction:

In order to fully understand the components and functionality of solar lights, it is important to familiarize ourselves with the key elements that make up these innovative solutions. Let’s explore the panel, fixture, LEDs, and energy storage system in detail.

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ANATOMY OF SOLAR LIGHTS

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01. Panel

The panel is a key component of solar lights as it harnesses solar energy to generate electricity. Each solar light is equipped with a complete assembly of mounting accessories or brackets, ensuring the panel’s stability and optimal positioning to capture maximum sunlight. Balancing material strength and weight is essential since the panel will be exposed to various weather conditions and wind for an extended period.

02. Fixture & LEDs

The fixture component of a solar light houses the LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology, which is instrumental in providing efficient and long-lasting illumination. The fixture is the housing that encapsulates the LED module and other electrical components. It is designed to protect the LEDs from external elements such as rain, dust, and extreme temperatures.

With solar LED lighting, fixtures typically consist of an array of multiple LEDs embedded into a unified structure. High-quality fixtures are wired in a parallel configuration, which offers advantages over a series wiring setup. LEDs are at the forefront of modern lighting technology. Renowned for its energy efficiency LEDs consume less energy while producing brighter light, resulting in significant energy savings over time.

03. Poles

Poles are the structural piece of any solar light installation. Varying in material and height, poles are the supporting structure where solar lights are placed. The pole serves as the backbone of the solar lighting system, providing structural support and elevation for the light fixture and other components. It is typically constructed from durable materials such as aluminum or steel, ensuring stability and longevity. The pole not only holds the solar panel at the optimal height for capturing sunlight but also provides a secure mounting point for the fixture and other electrical connections.

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04. Battery

The battery is a staple piece in solar lights. Batteries store the energy generated by the solar panel during daylight hours for use during the night. It ensures a continuous power supply, allowing the lights to illuminate even in the absence of direct sunlight. High-quality batteries with advanced technology, such as lithium-ion or gel batteries, are commonly used in solar lights for their efficiency, durability, and longer lifespan.

05. Battery Controller Conclusion

The battery controller, also known as the charge controller (ex. Maximum Power Point Tracking Controller) acts as the intelligent control unit that manages the charging and discharging of the battery. It regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panel to the battery, preventing overcharging or deep discharge, which can damage the battery. The battery controller also monitors the battery’s state of charge and optimizes the charging process to maximize its lifespan. Some advanced controllers may include additional features such as timers, light sensors, and programmable settings for enhanced functionality and energy management.

By understanding the critical connection between the pole, panel, LEDs, battery, and controller/driver in solar lights, we gain a deeper appreciation for their integral roles in the overall functionality and performance of these sustainable lighting solutions. The pole provides structural support and optimal positioning for the solar panel, fixture, LEDs, battery, and battery controller. The battery stores and supplies the stored energy while the battery controller intelligently manages the charging and discharging process to ensure the battery’s health and longevity. With proper configurations, the energy flow remains seamless, ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the solar lighting setup.

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CHAPTER [ 05

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Introduction:

In this chapter, we will dive into the fascinating world of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and explore the different aspects that contribute to the quality and effectiveness of lighting. From color temperature to lighting distribution types and beam angles, understanding these factors is essential for creating optimal lighting solutions.

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LEDS AND LIGHTING TYPE BREAKDOWN

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Intro to LEDs:

Solar Lighting Guide [ The Complete Solar Lighting Guide ] 2023 Version

LEDs are semiconductor devices that convert electrical energy into light. Unlike traditional lighting sources such as incandescent bulbs, LEDs emit light through the movement of electrons in a solid-state material. LEDs offer several advantages, including energy efficiency, long lifespan, durability, and compact size. Their versatility allows for a wide range of applications, from residential lighting to commercial and outdoor lighting.

IES Lighting Distribution Types

Lighting distribution refers to how light is spread and directed in a given space. It plays a crucial role in achieving uniform illumination and minimizing shadows. Proper lighting distribution ensures that light reaches all areas of a room or outdoor space effectively. By considering the specific requirements of the environment, the desired lighting levels, and the tasks performed in the space, you can determine the appropriate lighting distribution pattern.

The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) defines several lighting distribution types, each suited for different applications. Some common types include:

SMD LED Chip Structure

Color Temperature:

Color temperature refers to the perceived warmth or coolness of light emitted by an LED. It is measured in Kelvin (K). Lower color temperatures (around 2,700K–4000K) produce warm white light similar to traditional incandescent bulb, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Higher color temperatures (5000K and above) emit cool white or daylight-like light, which is ideal for areas where visibility and concentration are important. Understanding color temperature enables you to select the right lighting to create the desired ambiance and functionality in a space.

Type I: This distribution pattern is suitable for lighting pathways, sidewalks, and small, narrow areas.

Type II: Ideal for lighting wider walkways, general parking areas, and low to moderate-speed roadways.

Color Temperature Chart

Type III: Used for lighting larger areas such as parking lots, intersections, and general outdoor spaces.

Type IV: Designed for illuminating spaces where high uniformity is required.

Type V: This distribution provides a circular light pattern, making it suitable for wide open areas or large outdoor spaces.

Understanding these lighting distribution types helps you determine the most appropriate pattern for your specific lighting project, ensuring optimal lighting performance and visual comfort.

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Beam Angle Review and Distribution Patterns

Beam angle refers to the spread of light emitted by an LED fixture. It determines the width of the beam and the area that the light covers. A narrow beam angle focuses light in a concentrated area, making it suitable for accent lighting or highlighting specific objects. A wide beam angle provides a broader spread of light, making it ideal for general illumination of larger areas. By considering the intended purposes and desired lighting coverage, you can select the appropriate beam angle to achieve the desired lighting effect.

Beam Angle and Distribution Patterns:

The beam angle of an LED fixture works in conjunction with lighting distribution patterns to create the desired lighting effect. Different beam angles such as narrow spot, wide flood, or medium beam, are associated with specific distribution patterns. For example, a narrow spot beam angle combined with Type III distribution may be used to illuminate a specific area or architectural feature, while a wide flood beam angle combined with Type V distribution pattern can illuminate evenly.

SUNLIKE 30W Distribution Patterns

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CHAPTER

Introduction:

LiFePO 4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries have gained popularity in recent years due to their superior performance, reliability, and safety compared to other battery technologies. Here we break down the reasons why LiFePO 4 batteries are the best choice for solar lighting applications and discuss their key benefits.

LITHIUM-IRON PHOSPHATE BATTERIES LIFEPO 4 —THE BEST SOLAR BATTERY CHOICE

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Section 1: Advantages of LiFePO 4 Batteries

Superior Performance:

LiFePO 4 batteries offer exceptional performance characteristics that make them ideal for solar lighting applications. They have a high energy density, allowing them to store more energy in a compact size. LiFePO 4 batteries also exhibit excellent cycle life, meaning they can be charged and discharged numerous times without significantly degrading their performance. This longevity ensures a longer lifespan for the battery, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

Enhanced Safety:

Safety is a paramount concern when it comes to battery technology.

LiFePO 4 batteries are known for their outstanding safety features. Unlike other lithium-ion battery chemistries, LiFePO 4 batteries are more stable and less prone to thermal runaway or combustion risks. They have higher thermal stability and can withstand extreme temperatures without compromising their performance or safety.

Fast Charging Capability:

LiFePO 4 batteries have a high charge acceptance rate, allowing them to be charged quickly. This feature is particularly advantageous in solar lighting systems, where efficient charging is crucial to maximize the utilization of solar energy. With fast charging capability, LiFePO 4 batteries can rapidly recharge during daylight hours, ensuring optimal energy storage for nighttime operation.

Section 2: Optimal Integration of LiFePO 4 Batteries

I n Solar Lighting

Efficient Energy Storage:

LiFePO 4 batteries excel in storing energy generated by solar panels. Their high charge retention and low self-discharge rate enable them to efficiently store the solar energy collected during the day. This stored energy is then utilized to power the solar lights during the night, ensuring reliable and consistent illumination.

Extended Lifespan:

The long lifespan of LiFePO 4 batteries contributes to the overall cost-effectiveness of solar lights. With a typical lifespan of 5-10 years or more, LiFePO 4 batteries require less frequent replacement compared to other battery technologies. This not only reduces maintenance and replacement costs but also minimizes environmental impact.

Environmental Friendliness:

LiFePO 4 batteries are considered environmentally friendly due to their non-toxic and recyclable nature. Unlike traditional lead-acid batteries, LiFePO 4 batteries do not contain hazardous materials such as lead or acid. Additionally, their recyclability ensures that at the end of their lifespan, the materials can be responsibly reused, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Conclusion:

LiFePO 4 batteries offer numerous advantages and optimal integration for solar lighting systems. Their superior performance, enhanced safety, fast charging capability, and seamless compatibility make them the best choice for storing solar energy. With their extended lifespan and environmental friendliness, LiFePO 4 batteries contribute to the overall efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of solar lighting installations. By harnessing the power of LiFePO 4 batteries, solar lighting can provide long-lasting, eco-friendly illumination for various applications.

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CHAPTER [ 07

POWER OPTIMIZATION: SOLAR LIGHTING

Controllers and Drivers

Solar lights rely on controllers and drivers to regulate and optimize the operation of lights. These controllers play a crucial role in managing the charging, discharging, and overall performance of the batteries. Drivers, on the other hand, regulate the electrical current supplied to the LEDs.

CONTROLLERS AND DRIVERS ]

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Jefferson College, Pennsylvania

Controllers and Drivers

Solar lights rely on controllers and drivers to regulate and optimize the operation of lights. These controllers play a crucial role in managing the charging, discharging, and overall performance of the batteries. Drivers, on the other hand, regulate the electrical current supplied to the LEDs. Here’s how controllers and drivers work:

• Operational Modes:

Modes are operation settings that allow users to adjust the lighting system’s behavior based on their requirements. Standard programming controls include full light output options, automatic dusk-to-dawn, and motion sensor capabilities. Selecting an appropriate operational mode can also extend lighting autonomy for additional nightly coverage.

SOLTECH SATELIS PRO

• Controller Functionality:

Controllers for solar lighting systems monitor the battery’s state of charge (SOC) and ensure efficient energy management. They receive input from various sensors, such as light sensors and motion detectors, to determine when the lights should turn on or off. Controllers also prevent overcharging or over-discharging of the battery, which can negatively impact their lifespan.

MPPT Controller

• Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) is a technique for tracking and regulating the output energy from the solar panel to the battery.

• Measures the solar panel output voltage and current in real-time and continuously tracks the maximum power.

• Regulates the output voltage so that the system can always charge the battery with the maximum power.

• Significantly improves the solar system energy utilization rate, with a conversion efficiency up to 97%.

• Increases the solar system’s charging efficiency by at least 20% compared to Pulse Width Modulation (PWM).

• Battery Preservation:

Controllers are programmed to protect the batteries from deep discharge, which can cause irreversible damage. By monitoring the battery voltage and SOC, controllers ensure that the lights turn off before the battery reaches a critical level. This feature helps to extend the lifespan of the battery and maintain its performance over time.

Superior Battery

• Maintains a long cycle lifetime with minimal change in performance

• Provides high power density and high load currents to achieve high-speed charging in seconds.

• Exceptional low temperature performance delivering energy and charging down to -40°F(-40°C).

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LED Light Fixture Drivers

LED light fixtures require drivers to regulate the electrical current flowing to the LEDs. These drivers play a vital role in ensuring optimal functionality and performance of LED lights.

• Constant Current or Constant Voltage:

LED drivers can operate in either constant current (CC) or constant voltage (CV) mode. In CC mode, the diver supplies a constant current to the LEDs, ensuring consistent brightness and preventing thermal runaway. In CV mode, the driver maintains a constant voltage across the LEDs while adjusting the current based on the LED characteristics and requirements.

• Dimming and Controls:

LED drivers often offer dimming capabilities, allowing users to adjust the brightness of the LED lights according to their needs. Dimming only provides flexibility in lighting control but also helps save energy when full brightness is not required. Advanced LED drivers may support various dimming methods, such as 0-10V, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) or DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface).

LED Driver

• Role of LED Drivers:

LED drivers are electronic devices that convert the incoming power supply (typically DC or AC) into the appropriate voltage and current required to operate the LEDs. LED drivers provide a constant and stable power source, preventing fluctuations that can impact the performance and longevity of the LEDs.

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SOLTECH CEGONIA PRO 30W
CHAPTER [ 08

FAQ HOW DO SOLAR LIGHTS WORK? ]

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USANA Amphitheater, Utah

Q: How do solar lights work?

A: Solar lights use photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert sunlight into electricity. The PV cells charge a battery during the day, and the stored energy is then used to power the lights at night.

Q: Will solar lights still charge on cloudy days?

A: Yes! Solar lights can still charge even on cloudy days or overcast days, although the charging efficiency may be lower. Direct sunlight is ideal for optimal charging and performance.

Q: Solar light performance in winter? What happens when it rains?

A: Solar light performance may be affected during winter and rainy conditions due to reduced sunlight availability. In colder climates, the lights may have shorter illumination times, while heavy rain or cloudy days can limit charging. Proper placement, regular cleaning of solar panels, and opting for high-quality solar lights can help mitigate these effects and ensure satisfactory performance even in challenging weather conditions.

Q: How long do solar lights stay on at night?

A: The illumination duration of solar lights varies depending on factors such as the battery capacity, light intensity setting, and the amount of sunlight received during the day. Typically, solar lights can provide several hours of illumination, ranging from 6 to 10 hours.

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Q: Do solar lights require maintenance?

A: Solar lights require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning of the solar panels to remove dirt and debris is recommended. SOLTECH products are equipped with tempered glass panels for convenient self-cleaning.

Q: Are solar lights cost-effective?

A: Solar lights can be cost-effective in the long run. While they may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional lights, solar lights do not require electricity from the grid, resulting in reduced energy bills over time. Additionally, they have longer lifespans and lower maintenance requirements.

Q: How much am I saving with Solar Lighting?

A: As lighting projects vary, the average savings compared to the same traditional on-grid setup is 20%. Making solar lighting ideal by eliminating wiring, trenching, cabling, electrical conduit, and permitting costs. Not to mention the time saved per installation.

Q: How long do batteries last?

A: Battery life can range from 5–6 years.

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