Energy management in a self-contained lantern
In a self-contained marine lantern an enclosure houses the solar panels, batteries and LEDs. This compact design simplifies installation—just mount and configure the light to turn on at night. But how does it work?
1. ENERGY IN
Even when it’s cloudy, the sun’s energy generates power. When sunlight hits the solar panel, it excites the electrons, creating a DC current flowing into the battery. The battery stores energy with enough backup for even the darkest months.
2. ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS)
The EMS regulates the flow of energy from panels to batteries and from batteries to LEDs. Thanks to our unique EMS design, our solar lights have a small footprint while meeting light intensity requirements.
3. ENERGY OUT
Batteries power the LED light and the EMS, ensuring the light shines and/or flashes at the required intensity from dusk to dawn.
4. ARRAY TO LOAD RATIO (ALR)
A properly sized solar light has a higher ENERGY IN than ENERGY OUT. This means the system converts more of the sun’s energy into electricity than it requires to power the light. A properly balance ALR ensures the system works consistently and doesn’t consume more energy than it can create.
