Solar lights for a Newbie

**Simplicity** · 24th March 2024, 05:49 PM

12 volt solar lights HELP,
BIG HELP.

I want too, need too get some lighting in the workshop an I want too install it myself, so a quick background story for those that don’t know my situation.

We live OFF GRID
There is no power too the shed(Container’s at present,)

The Workshop is Three 40 foot shipping containers made into one big space inside.

I would like the lighting system too be a stand alone unit,

I have No interest in playing with 240 volt stuff zero interest, I would kill my self.
Getting electricians out hear is difficult !!

My solar knowledge is very basic, but I’m happy too learn the basics, but please try too keep it simple(ie look at my forum name)!
I’m a slow learner [emoji849][emoji849][emoji849][emoji849]

So I need some solar panels,we have plenty of flat roof area an zero shading for the panels,

I need a controller thingy and a 12 volt battery

Lots of cabling and the lights,
(I have made a few wiring looms in a past live, old VWs so not completely new to 12 volt stuff extra)

But I’m getting overwhelmed when I start looking around on line, especially at lighting options, initially I’m thinking of just 2 banks of ceiling lights down each container as I’m still setting things up and things will be moved about extra, then possibly down the track add in more task area lights were needed.

I also thought about maybe just running some LED light rope up an down the ceiling?

But honestly I need some guidance please.
And suggestions of buy this get that buy that.

I would give a budget, but I’m even struggling with that, but let’s just start with maybe $500/$600

Cheers Matt.

**Beardy** · 24th March 2024, 08:00 PM

I am building a motorhome at the moment so have been dabbling in this stuff
Depending on hiw good a setup you are planning but I would suggest something like Renogy gear as it is midrange quality or you could go Kings for cheap or Victron for top end
Look up a company called Zerogrid and they will have some information and products to suit your situation Zero Grid | Off Grid Solar Solutions & Supplies in Australia – Zero Grid AU

They pricematch so as well as getting a good price, more importantly in your situation is they will offer good advice
Another company to consider is SolarRV but they don’t sell Renogy

**havabeer69** · 24th March 2024, 10:43 PM

really any 4wd/caravan camping stuff is going to be 12v. jump on the local face book market place and see what solar stuff is for sale. Or just go buy a panel kit and the biggest battery you can find.

also be aware I don't think being "low voltage" negates your responsibility to get an electrician in especially if you start running wires through walls.

**tonzeyd** · 25th March 2024, 02:29 PM

Do you see yourself working late into the night?, if not i'd recommend going a different route and boost natural lighting into the space ie through skylights. We've got a few inside our place they are inexpensive, requires no maintenance and adds a surprisingly high amount of light in a dark space.

If you're working late at night, LED light strips are the way to go, cabinet shops, bunnings, camping stores all have these on hand. try to find something that has diffused light, as LED lighting can be quite harsh and unless they are at the right angle can make seeing scribe marks difficult.

**Simplicity** · 25th March 2024, 06:14 PM

Originally Posted by tonzeyd

Do you see yourself working late into the night?, if not i'd recommend going a different route and boost natural lighting into the space ie through skylights. We've got a few inside our place they are inexpensive, requires no maintenance and adds a surprisingly high amount of light in a dark space.

If you're working late at night, LED light strips are the way to go, cabinet shops, bunnings, camping stores all have these on hand. try to find something that has diffused light, as LED lighting can be quite harsh and unless they are at the right angle can make seeing scribe marks difficult.

Thanks everyone so far, Tony ye I do like too work late or after Sunset so definitely need lighting, inside the workshop,
Will definitely have a look at LED light strips.

Cheers Matt.

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