The solution: solar energy
Technological innovations have led to the ultimate solution for remote or mobile electric fences: solar-powered energisers. It sounds new, but Gallagher introduced the first solar devices to the market back in the 1980s. With these devices, they created a continuously growing demand. By constantly investing in bringing new devices onto the market, they have become better and more reliable. For instance, they are currently working hard on a range of lightweight devices with a lithium battery. This is the same kind of battery used in a mobile phone and ensures high longevity and reliability. Lithium batteries are also much lighter and smaller. This makes them even more manageable. Ideal for fences that need to be moved frequently. The Gallagher S6 and the Gallagher S12 are the first solar energisers with a lithium battery.
And the length you want to power? This aspect no longer plays a role. From 500 metres to 30 kilometres; there is a Gallagher device available for every distance. For even longer distances, you can go for a solar box. This is a plastic pallet topped with a large solar panel and an electrified vandal proof box containing the energiser. This solution can power up to 80 km of fences.
No sun, no problem
Save hundreds of pounds with solar power
Many compact, battery-powered devices run on a single 9V battery. These devices may seem cheap to buy, but because the battery needs to be replaced regularly, the costs add up quickly in the long run. Solar power is therefore by far the smarter choice.
S30li vs. BA30: lower costs in the long term
For shorter grazing periods, a BA30 is often chosen in combination with a 9V 160Ah battery. When comparing this device with the solar-powered S30li, there is a clear cost difference in favour of solar power.
Although the BA30 is cheaper to buy, costs rise after just a few seasons due to the need to replace the battery. After 3 grazing seasons, the total investment in the BA30 is already 8.5% higher than that of the S30li. If we assume a service life of 10 seasons, the difference becomes really clear: the S30li is then 58% cheaper in terms of total costs. What’s more, with the S30li you don’t have to lug around flat batteries, which also makes solar power a more sustainable and efficient choice.
S60li vs BA80: added benefits for heavier energisers
The financial benefit of solar power also quickly becomes apparent with heavier battery-powered equipment. The BA80 requires two 160-Ah batteries per season, which represents a significant recurring cost.
When we compare the BA80 with the S60li Solar, we see that the higher purchase price of the Solar solution pays for itself very quickly. After 3 seasons, the S60li is already 46% cheaper in terms of total costs. Over a period of 10 seasons, this saving amounts to as much as 75%.
Because solar-powered devices operate using an internal battery that is continuously charged by the solar panel, maintenance and replacement costs are lower and the system remains reliable without the need for additional annual investment.
Whilst battery-powered devices may seem particularly attractive at the point of purchase, solar energy proves to be the most cost-effective and sustainable choice in the medium and long term. Fewer replacements, lower running costs and no waste from empty batteries make solar energy a smart investment for today and tomorrow.
7-year warranty
All Gallagher energisers are extensively tested before delivery. This ensures that you can trust the device and that your animals are safe. At Gallagher, they are even so sure of their energisers that they offer a 7-year guarantee on all of them!
