In general, it is recommended that solar be used when providing electricity to the gate becomes economically prohibitive. A rule of thumb is; Use solar if the power run exceeds 300 feet. Solar installations are also typically more expensive due the additional cost of solar panels, batteries and regulators. In addition, they require more maintenance since they have additional components.

Solar installations can work well providing they are properly designed. There are solar operators, such as the US Automatic and Apollo gate operators, that use very little power operating on a 10-watt solar panel screwed to your fence.

For larger operators and for models that consume more power; a more robust system should be used such as the one depicted below in the photographs. This system has 2 60-watt solar panels, 2 deep-cycle marine batteries and a power regulator. All components are installed on a 24” x 20” x 24” deep concrete pad which rises 4” above grade. For added security, the batteries are locked down and the regulator is located in the lockable gray cabinet. This 120-watt stand-alone system can power most of the 24VDC systems from manufactures such as Viking Access & LiftMaster. An installation like this can power a small community gate through 2-3 weeks of overcast skies.

Check with a solar supplier for power requirements and solar panel orientation for your area.

Solar Power for Gate Operators