Here’s a simple calculator for estimating the size of batteries and solar panels for single family and small multifamily gate applications. For simplicity sake it makes generous assumptions about power usage. It is not recommended for facilities with multiple gates or with more than 40 or 50 drivers using the gate every day. For these facilities a more detailed model is available.
Step one is to estimate the power used by the system by estimating traffic. Power for keeping the system and accessories ready is included.
The second step is to estimate the amount of solar power available. This is a factor that changes based on location. The map below shows the typical amount of sunlight available in December (the shortest days of the year). The duration of standby time should include time in which there may be no solar charging at all due to storms or cloudiness.
The calculator provides the total power consumed by the system as a daily average, and recommends a solar panel size and battery size.