A major application for small off-grid PV systems is supplying power for outdoor equipment, also in urban areas, such as:
- Sign lighting
- Parking meters
- Bus shelter lights
- Outside area lighting
- Environmental monitoring equipment (air quality, traffic flows, etc.)
- Other relatively low-energy-consuming equipment away from the electric grid
Installing these low-power systems can cost less than connecting them to the grid, which might involve digging up roads and laying underground cables. These systems are usually sold in kits and are relatively easy to install. Most off-grid systems of this type consist of a PV module(s), charge controller and battery.
Solar powered parking meter.
In systems providing outdoor lighting, the lamps are usually LEDs, which consume little energy and have very long working lives. Ideally the battery should be in an enclosure under the ground so it does not overheat. If batteries get hot, their working lives are considerably shortened. However, as the danger of theft and flooding may prevent this, most systems have a battery enclosure at the top under the PV module. The battery should also be appropriate to the temperatures it will be subjected to.
Solar powered road sign.
Outside area lighting.
Most off-grid systems of this type consist of a PV module(s), charge controller, battery and the load.
All these systems require a maintenance plan to ensure long working lives. The main maintenance task is regular battery replacement. Dust on PV modules might also be an issue in some regions.