Solar trailers provide dependable, off-grid power for lighting, surveillance, and communication in remote or temporary environments. Whether used at construction sites, events, or emergency zones, understanding how these mobile systems operate is key to selecting the right solution. At 2M Technology, we engineer our solar trailers with high-performance components selected for durability, efficiency, and long-term reliability.
In this blog, we’ll break down the core components that power a solar trailer and explain what each specification means for real-world use. Whether you’re comparing options or considering a custom build, this guide will help you understand what specs really matter.
Solar Panels: The Primary Power Source
Solar panels are the foundation of any solar trailer system. They collect sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity, which is then used to power equipment or stored in batteries for later use.
Types of Solar Panels
There are two common types of solar panels used in mobile solar trailers:
Monocrystalline Panels
Made from a single crystal of silicon, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient and space-saving option available for solar trailers. They deliver superior performance in low-light or shaded conditions and have the longest operational lifespan among all panel types.
Polycrystalline Panels
Polycrystalline panels are constructed from multiple silicon fragments, making them slightly less efficient but more affordable. Solar trailers equipped with these panels are a solid choice for locations with consistent sun exposure.
What to Look for in Solar Panels
- Wattage: Higher wattage panels (e.g., 410W or 460W) provide more power, meaning faster charging and better performance in varying weather.
- Voltage: A higher voltage supports a faster and more efficient energy transfer to batteries.
- Adjustability: Solar trailers with panels that can tilt or rotate help capture maximum sunlight.
- Durability: Must be built for outdoor use. They should withstand wind, rain, heat, and UV exposure.
Battery Storage: Reliable Energy Day and Night
Since solar panels only generate electricity during the day, solar trailers store power in batteries for use at night or during cloudy conditions.
Types of Batteries
Different battery types offer varying levels of performance and maintenance:
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries
- Maintenance-free and sealed, great for mobile applications.
- Moderate lifespan (3–5 years).
- Can handle higher loads than gel batteries.
- Cost-effective and widely available.
- Perform well in cold temperatures.
- Best for: General-purpose lighting systems or mobile solar trailers that need reliable, low-maintenance batteries.
Gel Batteries
- Heat-resistant and spill-proof.
- Longer lifespan, but slower charging.
- More sensitive to overcharging, requiring precise charge regulation.
- Best for: Hot climates or systems where longevity and low maintenance are priorities.
Lithium-Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries
- Lightweight and compact.
- Extremely long lifespan (up to 10 years or more).
- Fast charging and deep discharging capabilities.
- More expensive upfront but lower long-term cost.
- Best for: High-performance systems, surveillance trailers, or long-duration light trailers with smart tech add-ons (cameras, sensors, wireless modules).
Battery Terms to Know
- Total Capacity: How much energy can be stored in the battery.
- Batteries × amp-hours (Ah) × voltage (V)
- Usable Capacity: The actual amount of energy that can be safely discharged from the battery system. Batteries often have usable capacity lower than total capacity (usually about 80% of total capacity) to preserve longevity.
Example Battery Setup
4 × 150Ah gel batteries at 12V = 7,200 Wh or 7.2 kWh total. Usable capacity is 5.76 kWh. This setup can power a 40W device for up to 48 hours.
Charge Controllers: Energy Flow Management
Charge controllers regulate the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries. They’re essential for extending battery life, as they prevent overcharging, over-discharging, or overheating.
Our solar trailers use MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers, which are more efficient than traditional PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) controllers. MPPT tech adjusts the panel’s output to match battery voltage, improving energy harvest by up to 30%. This ensures faster charging, protects your battery investment, and gives you automated control over lighting behavior.
Understanding MPPT Ratings (Example: 150/35):
- 150V: Maximum input voltage the controller can accept from solar panels
- 35A: Maximum current it can deliver to charge the battery.
Mast: Mounting Height and Direction
A mast is a vertical pole used to mount equipment such as cameras, lights, or loudspeakers. Telescoping masts can be extended to raise these devices above the trailer, providing broader coverage, minimizing shadows, and enhancing visibility. When not in use, the mast can retract and fold down for safe and compact transport. Many solar trailers with telescoping masts also offer 360° rotation, giving you full directional control to aim lights or cameras exactly where needed.
Custom Solar Trailers from 2M Technology
At 2M Technology, our solar security trailers and light towers are engineered for performance, adaptability, and durability. Whether you’re lighting a jobsite or deploying a mobile surveillance solution, our solar trailers are built to deliver consistent, low-maintenance power wherever you need it.
Need a custom solar trailer? Contact us today to explore mobile solutions that support lights, cameras, sirens, communication modules, and more, all powered by the sun.
