Technology
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Solar Electric Fence systems are a common way to electrify fences for a variety of agricultural purposes. Solar electricity has been widely used to power electric fences in agricultural applications since the 1970s and today's technology is very reliable and robust. A solar system is a cost effective and simple way to electrify fences where the grid is not readily accessible or where grid reliability is a concern.
Solar Electric fence systems are stand alone simple PV systems without moving parts. They are similar to a battery electrified fence with the addition of a PV panel sized for the battery and fence to ensure the battery remains charged. A solar controller regulates the amount of electricity delivered to the battery from the PV panel and the electric output to the fence. Solar electric fence systems can be mounted near or directly to a fence post where the PV panel will have a clear southern exposure from at least the hours of 10 AM to 3 PM. Solar electric fence systems can be designed to operate an existing electric fence or for a new electric fence. They can be designed to work throughout Canada and to be portable to allow them to be moved to different pastures depending on the fenced area in use. The size of the PV panel and battery required will depend on such factors as the climate, solar exposure, length can be designed to operate an existing electric fence or for a new electric fence. They can be designed to work throughout Canada and to be portable to allow of fence to be electrified, type of livestock or wildlife to be managed (different animals will require different electrical charges and different amount of wire/wire heights) and vegetation in contact with the fence.
Commercial solar electric fence systems are available as a packaged closed system or can be designed from the components up. Commercial kits often come with a panel attached to a weather-proof box housing the battery and charger. The systems are usually designed to go several days without sunlight and to charge the battery fully within 1 -2 sunny days. SE fence systems are relatively safe and simple to work with, design and install. Whenever working with electricity, danger exists and appropriate cautions must be taken.
Modified: 02-06-2008
