Is solar power a viable option for wireless deployments in hazardous areas?

Yes, but only in the right applications.

Solar is not a replacement for grid or diesel power. Instead it is a practical solution for low-power systems where installing mains power (grid connection), trenching cables, or maintaining diesel generators is too costly or impractical. When engineered correctly, solar power systems enable reliable wireless connectivity in:

• Remote locations
• Temporary deployments
• Areas with no feasible access to installed power infrastructure.

Solar Isn’t a Replacement, It’s an Enable

Solar works best in low-power systems, where equipment is spread out over large areas, such as wireless networks, sensors, and IIoT devices.

In some potentially explosive environments, installing power infrastructure can be:

• Expensive over long distances
• Logistically complex
• Difficult to justify for temporary or remote deployments.

Solar removes these barriers, enabling connectivity where grid or diesel solutions are not viable.

Designing for Low Power, Always-On Operation

The feasibility of solar comes down to power demand.

• Low-power devices (wireless radios, IoT gateways, and sensors): extremely suitable.
• Higher-power wireless devices for network connectivity (like high-throughput radios): may require a different system approach or significantly larger power solutions.

Solar systems are designed for continuous operation, with battery backup sized according to the application and power consumption of the connected devices.

For example, a 15-hour battery autonomy can be selected as an option for solar iWAPXN3 deployments, depending on site requirements, power consumption, and environmental conditions.

Systems are sized based on site requirements to ensure reliable operation across day/night cycles and varying sunlight conditions.

Hazardous Area Considerations

Solar installations in hazardous areas require careful consideration of a range of design and certification factors, including:

• Explosion protection standards, such as ATEX / IECEx compliance.
• Gas group and equipment protection levels.
• Temperature classification and T-rating compliance.
• Ambient temperature, internal heat rise, and direct solar radiation.
• Safe management of stored energy, including batteries.
• Suitability of antennas, cables, and connected equipment for hazardous area use.

Solar installations must manage both ambient heat and direct solar radiation, which can impact safety and certification if not properly controlled.

Solar + iWAPXN3: A Practical Combination

Built for hazardous area wireless deployments, the Solar iWAP XN3 Zone 2/Div 2 Powered Wireless Enclosure System provides:

• A protected environment for wireless access points, IoT gateways, and supporting equipment.
• Compatibility with lower-power wireless technologies such as LoRaWAN, LTE / Cellular, BLE gateways, and more.
• The ability to use standard antennas without the need for additional Ex certification.

For remote applications, this:

• Protects wireless communications equipment in remote locations.
• Reduces thermal impact through white, reflective enclosure coating and effective shading (often using the solar panel itself).
• Seamlessly integrates into off-grid and temporary deployments.

Ultimately, the iWAPXN3 is a practical solution for delivering safe wireless connectivity in hazardous locations, without the need for expensive infrastructure.

Enabling Digitalization at the Edge

Solar powered iWAPXN3 deployments support digital transformation by enabling:

• Remote monitoring and condition-based maintenance
• Wireless infrastructure for IIoT data
• Asset and personnel tracking
• Temporary connectivity for turnarounds and projects.

This allows operators to extend visibility, control, and wireless security into previously disconnected areas.

Key Takeaways

Solar power in hazardous areas is not a one-size-fits-all solution. However, it is a proven, engineered option for low-power, remote applications. Combined with iWAPXN3 enclosures, it offers safe, flexible connectivity in infrastructure-limited environments.

Contact us to learn more about our solar powered wireless deployments in hazardous areas.

About the Author

JE

James Eastwood

Product Manager

James brings experience from engineering and sales into his role as a product manager. His mix of technical understanding and commercial perspective supports the strategic development of our market-leading products.

Last updated on May 13, 2026

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