> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.verkada.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.verkada.com/verkada-cameras/installation/camera-deployment/power-a-verkada-camera-with-a-solar-panel.md).

# Power a Verkada Camera with a Solar Panel

For deployments that don’t have a dedicated power source available, a solar panel can be used to power a Verkada camera. This article describes the basic requirements to power a Verkada camera using solar energy, and provide it with internet connectivity using a cellular-based connection.

{% hint style="info" %}
We **strongly recommend** to test all equipment at the planned location for a few days or weeks to ensure everything is working as originally planned. There are usually unexpected variables that you may run into, such as a solar panel not producing the expected power or devices consuming more power than originally planned.
{% endhint %}

## Equipment list

* Solar panel
* Battery to store solar energy with a DC power output
* 802.3af, 802.3at, or 802.3bt PoE switch or injector
  * 802.3at **required** for the PoE heater to function on outdoor Verkada cameras
  * 802.3bt **required** to fully power a CH52-E
* Ethernet cables
* [Cellular Gateway](https://www.verkada.com/cellular-gateway/) (required, assuming an ISP connection isn’t available)
* Surge protector (**recommended**)
* Water-resistant hardware enclosure for battery, cradlepoint, PoE switch, or injector (**strongly recommended**)
* Backup gas powered generator (**optional**)

**Example**: Verkada camera running on solar energy

![](/files/JwMSvDnfZZpTZHAO6laI)

## Considerations for type capacity of equipment to use

* Amount of devices being powered and their expected power consumption
* Amount of direct sunlight expected to hit the solar cells on the solar panel
* Amount of time sunlight may not be available
* Possible weather conditions the deployment may be exposed to such as wind, rain, snow, or sleet
* Weight and size of equipment (if the deployment needs to be fully mobile)

{% hint style="warning" %}
Camera power consumption varies by model. See [Camera Power Requirements](/verkada-cameras/installation/camera-power-requirements.md) for more information.
{% endhint %}

## Deployment assistance

If you still have further questions regarding your deployment after reading this article, please contact Verkada Sales (<sales@verkada.com>) and phone numbers:

* North America: +1 (650) 514-2500
* Latin America: +52 (5) 565991555
* Europe: +44 (20) 30486050
* Asia / Pacific: +61 (2) 83105777


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