Solar Lighting Guide 2024 by Greenshine New Energy

1. Solar Lighting for Streets

One of the largest reasons why municipalities choose solar for their street lighting is because of how much of a nuisance construction can be, especially if lights are previously installed in the area. That’s not the case with solar. A single solar light can be assembled and installed in less than two hours. No road closures, blocked-off construction sites, or loud drills in the morning. Here’s an example of a street lighting project that saved several thousands of dollars and kept the community’s grounds intact.

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2. Parking Lot Lighting--Solutions Fast

Sometimes companies need solutions quickly. Solar lighting is a fantastic solution in lighting for parking lots since the average time it takes to install a system of solar lights (especially if pedestals are already present) is about 2 working days. Solar lights preserve parking lot pavement and keep commuters safe at night when safety can be a concern.

3. Park and Park Beautification

Park lighting is notorious for installation for two reasons: grounds and public access. The best idea for lighting a park is using solar—with quick, clean installation, lights can be erected in typically a day’s time once the pedestals are in place and dried. Plus,  the best way to be in harmony with nature is to use the most efficient, naturally-sourced energy to power lighting.

4. Construction--Gotta Have Some Light

Solar lights are quick and easy to deploy. They can be left on location to recharge without the need for noisy, smelly generators that require refueling. Once the project they assist with is completed, they can be hauled to the next job site. 

5. Military Solar Lighting

The military requires a standard that grid-tie options don’t always offer. Sometimes grid-tie can get messy, complicated, time-intensive, and expensive. Training areas and armories are intentionally left separate from a lot of power grids. Solar lights can be paired with motion sensors to instantly blip on at the first sign of any movement. Plus, if your solar installation needs to be managed remotely, each light can be integrated into a satellite monitoring system to ensure optimal functionality, even when nobody is around.

6. Security Where You Need it Most

When paired with a motion detector, solar lights can be used to deter theft, enhance security, and provide light on an as-needed basis. The batteries charge via the solar panels during the day and then provide power for the light fixtures at night. Lights for this application are often found in rural areas where open fields need light to work in. Solar lights are also placed in commercial and residential areas to prevent vandalism. 

7. Airport Lighting

Sometimes airports require extra lighting in order for commuters to safely get from point to point. Airplanes on occasion will release passengers without a connecting gate at night. Solar lighting is perfect for such a situation—mobile solar towers or portable lights can be transported out onto the airport tarmac where the lights can guide passengers safely into the terminal.

8. Solar Retro-Fit Lighting

Are poles or pedestals in place, but with the lights out? Not a problem. Solar lighting can be installed onto older poles through a retro-fit process. This means less hassle and quicker installation, provided that the poles meet durability / quality standards.

9. Solar Sign Lighting

Solar lighting for signage is perfect for businesses looking for more cost-effective ways of lighting their signs. Oftentimes, billboard lighting can be problematic to power since signage is by roadways, near bushes and pavement, and can be costly to dig into the grounds to run power. Easement costs can multiply project fees and delay installation time, especially if the project is to light multiple signs in several different locations, each of them likely with unique configurations. With solar, you needn’t worry about permits or excessive trenching just for commuters to see your business signs at night. 

10. Solar Canopy / Mailbox / Bus Stop Lighting

There are solar lighting options for canopies, mailboxes, and bus stops as well. Projects like these tend to focus lighting in small areas, so they tend to use fewer lights. You can customize your systems to fit the surroundings of the project area naturally. It’s near impossible to trench and wire for power in some mailbox areas, so solar is a natural option.

Color Temperature

White LEDs are the result of a phosphorus layer on top of a UV-emitting diode, but the phosphorus layer often determines the color temperature of the light. A common color temperature for LEDs is 4,000K, or a “cool white,” but this can be adjusted based on the needs for the client.

Color temperature for lighting is measured on the Kelvin scale between 1,000K to 10,000K, with 1,000 a much more “warm” color and 10,000K being a very “blue-white” light.

Distribution Types of LEDs

LEDs are arranged in different patterns for their fixtures. They’re named Type I through V. Here are the differences between them.

Generally, Type I and II fixtures are best for parks and walkways, so decorative fixtures are more common. The latter fixtures are best for functionality, which suggests parking lots and construction areas. Having the right fixture for the right application is a must.

Beam Angle

Beam Angle is the angle at which light is distributed from a light source. The specific degree measurement from a lamp varies depending on the manufacturer, but a beam angle falls under four categories:

• Spot (5 - 20 degrees)

• Flood (21 - 35 degrees)

• Wide Flood (36 - 49 degrees)

• Very Wide Flood (50 - 120 degrees)

Luminous Intensity Distribution Pattern

This pattern shows the direction and intensity of the light from the light source. Two graphs common in displaying the light patterns are called the plane system and the polar curve.

Plane

Polar

Light Spacing

The best spacing for light is determined by IESNA standards, but since each project is different, special areas or needs are considered. This is where a knowledgeable lighting consultant can help and get the best results for your project. 

Unique Locations

Consider the locations of each light as they’re planned--solar panel obstructions are common in parks (trees) and metropolitan areas (skyscrapers). The surroundings for a project site are not always ideal for solar energy.

Use the Volta

The Volta series is a unique solar light that has the solar panel integrated into the pole. The panel wraps around the pole so it appears as one unit instead of two separate components. If you’re interested in the Volta for your project, be sure to consult a lighting engineer as the Volta is most efficient in certain locales. 

Bury the Batteries

Batteries aren’t typically buried since after 5 years they’ll need to be replaced (average timespan). However, when presentation and aesthetics are more important than component accessibility, you can opt to place the battery underground. This is also a good way to regulate battery temperature if there are extreme temperatures to consider.

Compliance Considerations

There are some “checkmarks” that lights need to hit in order to be considered “best” for public use. The first is called International Dark Sky Association (IDA) Compliance. This is a set of guidelines to ensure lighting isn’t harmful to living organisms.

Light Spill

The IDA recommends light fixtures that do not have a “spillover” of light past the 180-degree plane of a fixture's angle. If light escapes the fixture past this plane for whatever reason, this is a telltale sign of a poor-quality fixture.

Color Temperature

IDA compliance for a light states that the color temperature given from the light fixture should be no more than Kelvin. Generally K is considered “too blue” for outdoor lighting and it’s rarely used in outdoor lighting anymore since it’s been claimed to negatively influence sleep cycles in people.  Some lighting fixtures can output less than K depending on the project and customer specifications, but IDA compliance is no more than K.

Frequently Asked Questions for Solar Lights

Q: Can solar street lights remain on during the evening even if we have cloudy days?

A: ​Yes, systems are designed to provide at least 5 nights of power even if you don’t have sun.  We design our systems around the Winter Solstice where you have the shortest day and longest night.  We accomplish this by analyzing your local solar/weather conditions to ensure our systems remain on at night when lighting is needed most.

Q: Can solar lights run out of energy?

Answer: Not from a quality manufacturer. Solar lights work almost anywhere, but it’s important to know how to configure a light in order to get the best functionality from it.

Q: Do some solar light systems lose power because of not enough solar energy?

A: Only improperly-sized systems will suffer significant power loss from poor sun hours.

Q: I live in a strong wind zone - are solar lights strong enough to withstand high winds?

​A: Yes, most systems are designed for 140 mph winds.  Some projects are located in hurricane zones that can handle winds up to 180 mph.

Q: What is the best solar panel technology for lighting needs?

A: “Best” is a bit of a subjective word. If you include “most commercially available” and “most researched,” the best in this case would be monocrystalline silicon panels. They’re more efficient than other technologies, use less harmful materials (like Cadmium), and use a heavily-researched, abundant base component.

Q: What is the difference between high-pressure sodium fixtures and LED fixtures?

A: LEDs cast more natural light on subjects. HPS light fixtures (which are still common) are efficient sources of light, but the quality of the light is poor. This poor light quality makes it hard to decipher colors properly; this can be an issue where safety is concerned.

Q: Can solar be harmful to the environment?

A: It depends on what the solar panel is composed of. Cadmium is a highly toxic metal used in some different technologies for solar power. “Green companies” only uses monocrystalline silicon in solar power panels, a form of sand.

Q: Where does solar not work well enough to sustain the light fixtures?

A: Every situation is different, but oftentimes solar won’t work well in downtown areas where the sun is blocked by skyscrapers and other obstructions. Also, solar is a great solution for most, but not every situation or geographic location.

Q: How much money do I save with solar lighting?

A: Once again, every situation is different, but on average there’s a savings of about 20% of the original cost of the project if grid-tie lights were chosen. There are case studies where we have saved businesses approximately half a million dollars purely on trenching and wiring fees alone. That doesn’t factor in savings from energy and maintenance bills.

​Q: What kind of maintenance should be done on solar street lights?

A: Solar lighting systems are essentially maintenance-free. Occasional rainfall usually keeps the panels fairly clean.  If in an area where snow gets heavy, you may need to brush off the solar panels. However, given the solar panel’s angle, snow usually slides right off once the sun rises and the temperature goes up.

Q. How long will the batteries last for solar street lights?

A: Batteries typically last 5-7 years.

Solar panels have grown in popularity in the United States in recent years, and it is simple to see why no-money-down financing, home equity enhancements, and immediate electric bill reductions.

Solar panels on a mobile home will transform your lifestyle. They are the most effective method for saving money on electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and achieving energy independence. As more homes turn to solar to produce their renewable energy, it is only natural that mobile homes should also jump on the sustainability bandwagon.   

Not all mobile homes, however, can sustain complete solar power systems. This solar panels on portable home guide covers everything you need to know, including whether or not your mobile home is suitable for going solar, its pros and cons, how many solar panels are required for a mobile home, and how to select the best solar panels. We recommend Jackery Solar Panels to power your mobile home's Portable Power Station to maximize solar power and renewable energy.    

Can You Use Solar Panels on Mobile Home?

Yes, you can use solar panels in a mobile home! However, solar systems are only compatible with some portable pads. For instance, if your mobile home is nestled in a community that operates off-grid or has its septic system, it will likely not be compatible with solar panel installation.

Before selecting your solar panels and solar system, you must determine whether your mobile home is suitable for solar panels.

Verify that your mobile home is structurally suitable for solar panels mounted on the roof and that your local government allows the installation of solar systems on mobile homes. If the roof structure of your mobile home is not sturdy enough to support roof-mounted solar panels, you should also consider a portable solar panel kit for your mobile home.

A portable solar kit that provides a small quantity of charge throughout the day without requiring a building permit. Typically, portable kits are intended to be laid out in a sunny location.   

What Are Solar Panels on Mobile Homes?

Mobile home solar panels can be any solar panels that are small and lightweight enough to be moved easily. Because mobile homes can be moved from one location to another, special considerations must be made when attempting to power them, including their structure, location, power consumption, and more.

They function similarly to residential portable solar panels, allowing you to lessen your reliance on the grid and your monthly electricity cost. They can be used as an emergency backup energy source in a power outage.   

What Are The Pros & Cons of Solar Panels on Mobile Homes?

Solar panels on mobile homes have numerous benefits, ranging from the personal to the global and the financial to the environmental.  

Here are some of the benefits of transitioning to solar energy.

• Saving Bills: Do not experience sticker shock upon seeing the initial cost of an off-grid mobile home power solution. The proper solar energy system can eliminate electricity costs and save you substantial money.  

You want to minimize the upfront expense as much as possible, and financing your purchase is typically an option. Consider a portable power system, ideally suited for mobile homes, and solar energy, free, renewable, and limitless.

• Sustainability: Solar systems provide substantial environmental benefits. Wind and solar offer an infinite quantity of energy that can be used to power everything from a single mobile home to an entire community, resulting in long-term environmental benefits and lower electricity costs.

• Power Independence: The possibility of energy independence attracts numerous mobile householders to off-grid renewable power systems. Frequently, mobile homeowners spend half or more of their income on utility expenditures. Using solar energy, you can avoid the high costs of grid-tied energy. You can also lessen the impact of a deteriorating power grid and rising energy prices.

Solar panels are only a viable option for some mobile homeowners. Some potential disadvantages include. The disadvantages of solar panels on mobile homes are as follows:

• Mobile Home Restrictions: Are you searching for the best solar panels for your mobile home? Building codes and your mobile home's design may prohibit solar panel installation. Solar panel installation on most mobile homes is impossible or restricted due to building regulations.  

• Space Constraints: Even if a rooftop solar panel installation does not require any interior space, the balance of system components, particularly the less expensive options, can be significant. The Jackery Solar Generators (Solar Panels with Portable Power Stations) will only occupy a little space within your mobile home.

• Costs: Purchase and installation fees are steep. The price can be prohibitive if your system uses lead-acid batteries requiring frequent maintenance and replacement. However, a solar generator can cover your mobile home's requirements for less money and with the right components, and you should consider Jackery Solar Generators for their quality and efficiency.

What Are The Types of Solar Panels on Mobile Homes?

Frequently, manufactured homes could be more efficient and use a great deal of energy. If you make a few enhancements, you can reduce your energy consumption, which is a cost-effective strategy for adopting solar power. There are two categories of solar panels in mobile homes.

Types of Solar Panels on Mobile Homes: Solar Cell Technology

You can use solar cell technology to categorize solar panels on mobile homes. A solar cell can reflect, absorb, or transmit incoming light. The PV cell's semiconductor material conducts electricity more efficiently than an insulator but less efficiently than a strong conductor like a metal.  

• Monocrystalline Solar Panels: These cells are constructed from the available purest silicon. Thus, solar panels built from such cells often have the best efficiency ratings of any currently available option and carry out extraordinarily effectively in terms of electrical output.

These solar cells are the most efficient and durable material for mobile home solar panels. This type of solar cell is used to construct Jackery Solar Panels so that solar energy can be used with a higher conversion efficiency.

• Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Polycrystalline panels are quicker to produce for the manufacturer than other types of meetings. They are slightly less expensive to acquire than, for instance, monocrystalline options. Even though they are less high-quality than their monocrystalline counterparts, they are also highly efficient.

• Amorphous Solar Panels: Unlike the previous panels, these are made from thin silicon layers, allowing them to be flexible. Additionally, they are lighter than the other panel varieties mentioned.

Types of Solar Panels on Mobile Home: Usages

Individuals can install solar panels on mobile homes' rooftops to utilize the sun's energy and convert it into electricity. Or, you can install grounded-mounted solar panels on the ground of your backyard or front yard or portable solar panels, which are best for mobile homes.

• Rooftop Solar Panels: Rooftop solar is a photovoltaic (PV) system consisting of solar panels installed on the roof of a residence or business. Rooftop solar panel installation offers many benefits for firms and households. Due to the fragility of mobile homes, it is inappropriate to install solar panels on the roof of a mobile house.

• Ground-Mounted Solar Panels: A solar panel mounted on the ground resembles a rooftop solar panel. The only distinction is that ground-mount solar panels are installed on the floor using either a standard or pole-mount installation. Some ground-mounted solar panel systems can move with the sun to capture the maximum sunlight daily. However, there must be sufficient capacity for them in the mobile homes.

• Portable Solar Panels: As "Portable" implies, these solar panels comprise condensed components. These panels are portable and straightforward to install. Like a standard solar panel, portable solar panels use a solar power generator to turn solar energy into usable electricity. Due to their portability, these solar panels for mobile homesare ideal.

How Many Watts Does A Mobile Home Use?

Would installing solar panels on your mobile home be beneficial? Determine this by calculating your total electricity consumption requirements.

Annually, mobile residences consume an average of 6 kWh per square foot. The average size of a mobile home is between 200 and 600 square feet, resulting in an annual energy consumption of kWh, 100 kWh per month, and 3.3 kWh per day.

However, each mobile homeowner is different. Initially, it would be best if you determined the wattage needs of your appliances and HVAC systems. Examine your appliances' starting and operating wattage requirements, HVAC systems (if applicable), and devices you intend to connect to the solar generator. The wattage requirements are typically labeled on the machine, but we have also compiled common domestic appliances' starting and running watts in the table below.

If your appliance's power requirements are expressed in volts or amps, you can calculate its operating watts using the following formula:

Wattage = Voltage x Ampere

The total running watts of the appliances you intend to use should be the running wattage listed on your generator. Consider purchasing a generator with a higher output capacity if so.

Mobile Home Appliances

Running Watts

Starting Watts

Refrigerator

700W

W

Dishwasher

W

W

Light

20W

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0

Microwave

600W

0

TV

500W

0

Coffee Maker

800W

0

Blender

300W

800W

Fan

200W

350W

How Much Solar Power Does A Mobile Home Need

Please take the time to determine your total watt-hours before customizing a solar-powered system. It will enable you to make the best decisions so that you don't under or over, purchase equipment.

As previously mentioned, when calculating the solar power required for a mobile home, you must determine how much wattage a mobile home uses. Then, using the Watt-hour formula, the following result is obtained:

Watt-hours = Watts x Hours = (Volts x Amps) x Hours

For instance, if your 5Amp microwave requires 120V DC, it is a 600W microwave. Assuming you use the microwave for 30 minutes daily, you will need 300Wh (600W x 0.5H) of solar energy.

Mobile Home Appliances

Wattage

Hours

Solar Power Needed

Refrigerator

700W

24H

16.8kWh

Dishwasher

W

20Mins

433Wh

Light

20W

5H

100Wh

Microwave

600W

20Mins

200Wh

TV

500W

2H

Wh

Coffee Maker

800W

10Mins

133Wh

Blender

300W

10Mins

50Wh

Fan

200W

2H

400Wh

How Many Solar Panels on Mobile Homes?

As stated, portable solar panels are the most suitable for mobile homes. As its name suggests, a mobile home is a type of house that is mobile and does not remain in one location for an extended period, so portable solar panels are simple to transport and install anywhere.

Additionally, most mobile homes are less durable than homes, apartments, or other dwellings. Therefore, the rooftop solar panels must be lighter for a mobile home. The solar panels mounted on the ground require adequate space. Comparatively, portable solar panels are the best option for mobile residences.

Jackery's solar products, such as solar panels, portable power stations, and solar generators, have earned it widespread renown.

Typically, Jackery Solar Panels convert sunlight to electricity. Solar panels can be paired with the Jackery Portable Power Station through the solar connector and cables to store and use electricity. Alternately, you can connect Jackery Solar Panels in series or parallel to other third-party power stations.

Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel

• Power Rating: 200W
• Materials: Monocrystalline silicon solar cells
• Waterproof: IP67
• Solar Power: Power voltage 18V; power current 11.12A; open circuit voltage 23.2V; short circuit current 11.76A
• Dimensions: Folded 21,2 x 24,2 x 1,6 in (540 x 615 x 40 mm); unfolded 21,2 x 91,3 x 1 in (540 x x 25 mm); weight 17.5±5lbs(8.0±0.3Kg)

The Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panel is a portable and effective solution for solar energy collection on the go. As more households in the United States adopt renewable energy sources, solar power has gained popularity for residences and outdoor activities such as camping and fishing.

The Jackery 200W Solar Panel enables users to charge Jackery Portable Power Stations with clean, renewable energy, making it an ideal companion for those constantly moving.

The Jackery 200W portable solar panel is practical for outdoor excursions and emergencies. Using six SolarSaga 200W solar panels and the Explorer Pro power station, it can be entirely charged in only 2.5 hours. In addition to being compatible with other Jackery power stations, the solar panel is a versatile and dependable addition to your devices.   

*Learn more details from our product page.

Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel

• Power Rating: 100W
• Conversion Efficiency: 23%
• Materials: Monocrystalline silicon solar cells
• Waterproof: IP65
• Solar Power: Power voltage 18V; power current 5.55A; open circuit voltage 21.6V; short circuit current 6A
• Dimensions: Folded 24 x 21 x 1.4 in (610 x 535 x 35 mm); unfolded 48 x 21 x 0.2 in ( x 535 x 5 mm); weight 10.33 lbs (4.69 kg)

• watt solar panels are the most popular size for portable panels because they are neither too small nor too large. Jackery SolarSaga 100W solar panels are designed for portability, with a thin layer of solar cells wrapped in ETFE. ETFE is a plastic polymer derived from fluorine and an excellent lightweight alternative to glass. Not only is this material lightweight and more flexible than rigid plastic, but it is also durable.

Along the sides of the panel are two handles, one on each side, that meet when the board is folded together. These handles are manufactured from TPE, a combination of plastic and rubber. Instead of latches, two magnets are on each side of the folded panel to hold it close.

Two integrated supports serve as a stand. When folded, these are held in position by Velcro and, when extended, by two straps. The legs are strengthened by a portion of thick plastic covered by fabric. SolarSaga 100W solar panels are compatible with Portable Power Stations, allowing you to power your mobile home with solar energy on the go. 

*Learn more details from our product page.

Jackery SolarSaga 80W Solar Panel

• Power Rating: 80W
• Conversion Efficiency: 25%
• Materials: Monocrystalline silicon solar cells
• Waterproof: IP68
• Solar Power: Power voltage 22V; power current 3.6A; open circuit voltage 28.5V; short circuit current 3.71A
• Dimensions: Folded 35.67 x 20.79 x 1.06 in (906 x 528 x 27 mm); unfolded 35.67 x 20.79 x 1.06 in (906 x 528 x 27 mm); weight 10.33 lbs (5.1 kg)

SolarSaga 80W Solar Panels are compatible with all Jackery power stations, providing a premier selection of charging options for up to twelve 80W solar panels simultaneously. The solar panel is made of 2.8mm low iron complete toughened glass, which gives it extremely high durability. It has a unique corner design that adds strength—providing a straightforward and rapid setup in under one minute.

Certified IP68 impermeable and dustproof function can act against extreme weather conditions. Flexible enough for outdoor use, a two-meter extension cable is provided for additional charging distance applications.

It has a transmittance of 95% and a conversion rate of 25% and is made of reinforced, low-iron glass. You can combine SolarSaga 80W solar panels with Portable Power Stations to generate more solar energy for mobile homes.  

*Learn more details from our product page.

How to Choose The Solar Panels on Mobile Home?

Not all solar panels are identical, and mobile homeowners have varying requirements. Consider factors such as the size of your trailer, your electricity consumption requirements, and the average peak sunlight hours in your area.  

• Solar Panel Wattage

The average mobile home consumes approximately 6 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per square foot daily. The average size of a mobile home is between 600 and square feet. Due to the nature of their homes, mobile homeowners use up to 70% more electricity than site-built homeowners. In general, PV panels with a higher rated power and efficiency are preferable, as fewer panels can produce more energy.      

• Solar Panel Efficiency

Solar panel efficacy refers to a photovoltaic panel's capacity to convert sunlight into electricity. For instance, the Jackery SolarSaga 200W portable solar panel has the highest efficiency in the industry at 24.3%, so 24.3% of the sun's rays will be converted into electricity.    

• Mobile Home Space

The design and structure of your roof should also factor into your purchase decision, which will decide how many solar panels you can install on your top and their optimal size, efficacy, and output rating.

Solar Panels on Mobile Home FAQs

These are the most frequently asked questions about mobile home solar panels:    

1. What size of solar generator do I need for my mobile home?

Using a solar generator to power a mobile home utilizes a renewable and limitless energy source and takes advantage of the portability of solar systems and mobile homes. The Jackery Solar Generator is renowned for its portability, high capacity, and versatility. Choose an accommodation between 240Wh and 24kWh according to your mobile home's requirements.  

However, you must estimate your mobile home's energy consumption before purchasing a solar generator to ensure it meets your needs. Typically, a mobile residence uses between 3kWh and 5kWh of energy. Simple calculations can then be used to estimate how long the Jackery Solar Generator will continue to function.

Working Time = Power Station Capacity*0.85 / Your Device's Operating Wattage

For example, charging a 600W microwave with the Solar Generator Pro (Wh capacity) will require 4.3 hours (Wh*0.85/600W).

2. Are solar panels too heavy for mobile homes?

Most solar panels are manageable for mobile homes, but this depends on several factors, such as the roof's pitch, structural integrity, and panel weight. If you want to install part or all of your solar array on the ground, portable solar panels are a great alternative to rooftop solar panels. Solar panels from Jackery are the best choice for your mobile home.    

Final Thoughts

Mobile homeowners who invest in solar panels are making wise decisions. This type of home consumes more energy than conventional homes. You may considerably cut or eliminate your electricity costs by installing solar panels.   

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