Solar Powered Gate Opener - Just Down the Street

You may be hearing a lot about “going green,” in recent months with concerns about global warming and dependence on foreign oil supplies hitting the news frequently.  Solar energy is going to be a top income producer in 2009.  More green collar jobs are being created, allowing for growth in certain sectors in these tough economic times.  All of this brings me to solar power, and more specifically, solar powered gate openers!  I am excited about this use of solar energy because it is an easy, relatively inexpensive way for people to test the waters of a life off-grid, that is – without dependence on electric companies to keep “juiced up.”

I live in a pretty environmentally-conscious region, in Bend, Oregon.  In a typical day, I will spot at least 4 or 5 solar panel installations on various properties around town.  There are a number of creative ways that homeowners and businesses are using PV technology to power everything from traffic signals, school reader boards and, yes, even solar powered gate openers.

Recently, I noticed that one property owner along a busy thoroughfare gated his driveway to prevent trespassers who cut through a gravel shortcut to the river trail system.  A solar powered gate opener was installed, which likely cost between $150 and $250 (including shipping).  Companies such as Hoover Fence Company offer the specialized solar panels on their websites.  Once installed, energy from the sun will power as many as 15 automatic gate openings per day.

Not sure whether a solar powered gate opener is right for you?  Why not preview installation manuals on-line to determine how easy it is to get a solar powered gate opener for on your property.  If you are sold, you can order solar powered gate openers right with the click of a mouse!

Amazing Gates Diagram of Solar Powered Gate

Not all solar powered gates are basic models like the ones shown here.  For higher-end properties, you may want to consider a $1500-$2000 wrought iron solar powered gate opener.  View some of the gorgeous options online at Amazing Gates.  Beauty and “green” can go hand-in-hand.

Once you turn on to solar energy, you can relax about your power bill (it will be significantly lower) and also enjoy the security of knowing that, even in a power outage, you can always access or exit your property with a solar powered gate opener.

Just consider this next time you get stuck outside in a wind and rainstorm and have to jump out of your car to manually open your electric gate when the power goes out.  If nothing else, that should get you thinking about the benefits of going solar.  It sure convinced me!