Security systems are no longer limited by infrastructure. Learn 5 advantages of solar powered security.
The world is more connected that it has ever been. We are increasingly reliant on technology to keep us in the loop, communicate, schedule, and conduct business—both personally and professionally.
So, nothing gets my anxiety going like seeing the battery indicator on my phone dropping perilously low to zero. We’ve all been there. The feelings of dismay, urgency, and onset panic once we realize that our lifeline is in danger of being shut down in a moment’s notice is universal.
Those feelings are only magnified when it comes to the fear that something as critical as your business’ security system can go astray. Leaving your surveillance capacity blinded for any amount of time no matter how short, is a moment too long.
Nowadays, solar powered security systems are helping alleviate those fears. Technology is evolving and improving how energy is created, converted, and stored—ensuring that when it comes to security, we have coverage 24/7.
Solar power is one of the most popular and fastest growing renewable energy sources in the past several years. According to a 2021 report by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), solar accounted for 46% of all new electricity generating capacity added in the U.S.
Part of the allure is that solar power is an infinite resource that can never be depleted. With solar powered systems the energy being used is captured and transformed from sunlight. This energy is created, stored, and replenished by the sun so that the units can run continuously and without interruption.
Another huge benefit lies in that it doesn’t create pollutants or negative byproducts during the energy conversion process. It’s no wonder many see solar energy to be a win-win proposition— especially for industries and systems that demand a lot of electricity or have a need for a reliable source of power. When it comes to surveillance and security, solar powered systems are changing the game.
Security systems are only as good as their ability to monitor and stay operational. Their power supply is critical to maintaining an uninterrupted ability to survey, record, and deter any potential dangers or threats. Traditional cameras and security systems are typically hard-wired systems that rely on physical electrical cords to transmit a continuous power supply.
However, with wires, there is a distinct limitation on where surveillance units can be placed or set up. They are only as mobile as the distance they are tethered to or connected to an outlet or power source.
When it comes to solar power and mobile security units, the beauty lies in that it creates a completely flexible, wireless, and unencumbered system. The surveillance system can be mobilized freely, easily, and placed practically anywhere at a moment’s notice. This ensures that you have an added level of security and deterrence wherever you need it without limitation.
In remote areas, access to reliable electricity can be challenging or non-existent which poses unique challenges. With the ability to harness energy from the sun and be truly wireless, solar powered cameras can be an excellent solution for remote areas that lack access to a traditional power source. It fills a huge void for areas that are more rural or secluded that still require a high level of security and deterrence and the electricity to keep it running.
In addition, remote locations not only have little access to power sources, but they may also have spotty connectivity to allow for transfer of data. Solar power can help bridge that gap so that data can reliably be captured, transferred, and accessed remotely. This ensures that users can then interact with the camera system and access the video captured from wherever they may be without a loss of resolution or reliability. This creates a self-sufficient system that can eliminate the frequency to travel to locations that are harder to get to. The ability to continuously monitor a remote location at your whim can help close the divide caused by geography.
Solar is a renewable and replenishable energy source that is limitless. Energy can be converted and captured on even cloudy or rainy days. The ability to constantly create and bank the power manufactured ensures that there is always available electricity. This extends into the night when it’s dark or during emergency situations or natural disasters. In the event of a power outage or damage to infrastructure, the security system will still operate. It provides peace of mind when it’s needed the most.
There is a saying that the more moving parts you have, the greater chance for a breakdown. When it comes to hard-wired systems, those wires and plugs themselves can be a potential liability. By having exposed wires, they can be compromised by potential tampering, i.e., in a parking lot where damage can be done discreetly and swiftly and go undiscovered for some time. There is also an increased likelihood that there will be damage from the elements, which can include normal wear and tear to harsh weather conditions that can compromise the system.
When it comes to security, a large part of deterring criminal acts from occurring is to make the act of committing the crime more difficult. Exposed electrical components, boxes, or cords can welcome vandalism and create easier pathways to those looking for ways to disarm or disable the surveillance unit. Solar panels can mitigate some of this risk by being mounted higher and out of reach making it more secure than their wired counterparts.
Solar energy is not a new technology, but it is one that has seen rapid advances and growth in the last decade that will only continue to accelerate. According to a recent report by the Global Systems Institute, the world has reached “a global irreversible solar tipping point” and estimates that solar will account for more than half of the worlds’ electricity generation by 2033 and dominate the global energy mix by 2050.
With so many advances in harnessing the power of solar along with the renewable abundance of sunlight, solar is emerging as an economical means to source power. The Global Systems Institute anticipates that solar will be the most efficient and cost-effective form of electricity generation over the coming years. Not only can it bring the cost of electricity down, but it can also reduce the cost and the need to expand power grids or overall infrastructure to meet increasing demands.
Solar technology is revolutionizing the way we power the world around us and the way we can keep the world around us safer. It can provide a deeper level of dependability when it comes to keeping our systems running and our security intact. Its myriad of benefits range from reliability to cost efficiency to its positive impact on the environment and ability to transform the landscape. It’s a win-win for those looking to secure, protect, and deter with their business security and further enhances a losing proposition for those looking to engage in criminal acts.