How to Set Up a Solar-Powered CCTV System for Remote Sites in Pakistan

WAPDA power is unreliable in many parts of Pakistan, and running grid power to remote sites like petrol pumps on highways, farms, or construction sites is often impractical. Solar-powered CCTV offers a reliable, cost-effective alternative. Here is how we design and install these systems.

Component Selection

A typical solar CCTV system consists of:

1. Solar Panels

For 4–8 cameras running 24/7, we typically specify 200–400W of solar panels. Use monocrystalline panels for the best efficiency in Pakistan's climate. Mount at an angle facing south for maximum generation.

2. Battery Bank

We strongly recommend LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries over lead-acid for outdoor Pakistan conditions. LiFePO4 batteries:

• Handle deep discharge better (80% depth of discharge vs 50% for lead-acid)
• Last 8–10 years vs 3–5 years for lead-acid
• Perform better in high temperatures (50°C+ in summer)

A 200Ah 12V LiFePO4 battery provides approximately 2400Wh — enough for 24–36 hours of operation without sun.

3. Charge Controller

Use an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar charge controller sized at 20–40A depending on your panel wattage. MPPT controllers are 20–30% more efficient than PWM controllers.

4. IP Cameras

Select cameras with low power consumption. Most standard Hikvision/Dahua 2MP IP cameras consume 5–8W. Over 24 hours, 4 cameras consume approximately 500–768Wh.

5. PoE Switch

A small 4–8 port PoE switch consumes 10–20W. Choose a model with 802.3af/at support.

6. NVR

A compact NVR (e.g. Hikvision DS-7608NI-K1/8P) consumes 10–15W with a single HDD.

7. 4G Router

For remote viewing over mobile data. Consumption: 5–10W. Use a local SIM with a data package.

Power Sizing Example (6 Cameras)

Recommended: 400W solar panels + 200Ah LiFePO4 battery (provides ~3 cloudy days autonomy).

Installation Tips

1. Mount cameras with built-in IR — avoid separate IR illuminators to save power

2. Use motion-triggered recording on the NVR to reduce HDD power consumption

3. Install a surge protector on the solar input to protect against lightning

4. Use waterproof junction boxes for all outdoor wiring connections

5. Angle solar panels to minimise dust accumulation — or schedule monthly cleaning

Remote Monitoring

We configure all solar CCTV sites with:

• Hik-Connect or DMSS for live camera viewing
• A solar monitoring app (via the MPPT controller's Bluetooth or RS485) to check battery status and solar generation remotely

We design and install solar CCTV systems across Karachi and Pakistan. For a site assessment and quotation, contact us on +92 313 2689511.