Solar Based Electric Fence

R Kamalakannan

, K Arun

, R Saran

and B Mukesh

Dept of EEE S.A. Engineering College Chennai, India

Keywords: MATLAB Simulation Framework, Electric Fence Using Solar Panel.

Abstract: The solar panels are the primary source of power. Positioned strategically to maximize sunlight exposure,

they convert solar energy into electricity. This electricity is stored in a battery system, ensuring the fence

remains operation even during cloudy days or night time.These pulse travel along the fence wires, creating an

effective barrier. When an animal or intruder comes into contact with the fence, they receive a brief but

impactful shock. This shock is enough to deter them from attempting to cross the fence but is designed not to

cause permanent harm. An advantage of this system is independence from the power grid, making It ideal for

remote locations. It also significantly reduces operational costs compared to traditional electric fencing, given

the reliance on renewable solar energy. However, it's worth noting the limitations. Unlike systems integrated

with IOT, this fence cannot be monitored or controlled remotely. This might require more manual oversight

to ensure it's functioning correctly and that battery is sufficiently charged. Overall, the solar based electric

fence provides a sustainable and cost effective solution for securing perimeters in areas with ample sunlight,

combining practicality with environmental benefits.

1 INTRODUCTION

In an age where sustainability is paramount, the solar

based electric fence offer a revolutionary way to

manage and protect agricultural spaces. Solar energy,

a renewable and abundant resource, transforming

sunlight into electrical energy through photo voltaic

panels. This energy is then stored in batteries to

ensure continuous operation, even during periods

without sunlight. The heart of this system, the

energizer, converts the stored energy into high-

voltage pulses. These pulses travel along the fence

wires, creating an effective and humane barrier.

When an intruder or animal touches the fence, they

receive a brief , non lethal shock, providing a strong

deterrent without causing lasting harm .One of the

standout benefits of the solar based electric fence its

independence from the electrical grid.

This feature makes it especially suitable for

remote and rural areas where access to electricity can

be limited or non-existent.

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Additionally, by utilizing solar power, the system

reduces operational costs and minimizes

environmental impact, aligning with global efforts to

adopt greener technologies. While it may not have the

remote monitoring capabilities of more advanced IoT

systems, the solar based electric fence’s reliability

and simplicity make a practical choice for many

applications. It the innovative use of renewable

energy to solve practical problems, reflect a step

forward in sustainable agricultural practices.

2 PROPOSED WORK

The proposed system for a solar-powered electric

fence integrates solar energy with advanced fault

monitoring to create a reliable and efficient security

solution. The system begins with solar panels that

capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy,

which is then stored in batteries. This ensures that the

fence operates continuously, even during periods of

low sunlight. The energizer converts the stored

Kamalakannan, R., Arun, K., Saran, R. and Mukesh, B.

Solar Based Electric Fence.

DOI: 10.5220/0013577000004639

In Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Intelligent and Sustainable Power and Energy Systems (ISPES 2024), pages 69-73

ISBN: 978-989-758-756-6

electrical energy into high-voltage pulses, which are

transmitted through conductive fence wires. These

pulses create a deterrent barrier that prevents animals

and intruders from crossing. To maintain the fence's

effectiveness, voltage monitoring sensors are placed

at regular intervals along the fence. These sensors

continuously monitor the voltage levels and detect

any drops below the rated value. When a voltage drop

is detected, the fault identification system flags the

corresponding fence section as faulty. This

information is transmitted to a Central Monitoring

System (CMS) through a wireless communication

module. The CMS provides a user-friendly interface

that displays real-time voltage levels and the status of

each fence section. It also sends alerts to the on-duty

operator about any detected faults, allowing for

prompt inspection and repair. This system ensures

that the fence remains operational and effective,

providing a sustainable and cost-effective security

solution for remote and rural areas. By combining

renewable solar energy with real-time monitoring and

fault detection, the proposed system enhances the

reliability and efficiency of traditional electric fences.

2.1 Block Diagram

Figure 1 Block diagram of solar based electric fence

2.2 Block Diagram Explanation

The solar-powered electric fence system efficiently

integrates renewable energy with advanced

monitoring technology to ensure continuous and

reliable operation. Solar panels capture sunlight and

convert it into electrical energy, which is stored in

batteries. This stored energy is crucial for maintaining

the fence's functionality during periods of low

sunlight or at night. The system's central component,

the Arduino microcontroller, continuously monitors

the fence voltage. Should the voltage fall below a

predefined threshold, the Arduino triggers an alert

system, such as a buzzer, to notify the operator of a

fault.

The power amplifier board plays a vital role in

boosting the electrical power to a level suitable for the

electric fence. This high-voltage pulse is then

transmitted through the fence wires, creating an

effective deterrent for animals and intruders. The

system's design ensures that the fence remains

operational regardless of weather conditions,

provided there is sufficient solar energy stored in the

batteries.

This setup is particularly beneficial for remote and

rural areas where access to the electrical grid is

limited or non-existent. By utilizing solar energy, the

system reduces reliance on traditional power sources,

lowering operational costs and environmental impact.

The continuous voltage monitoring and fault

identification ensure timely maintenance, enhancing

the overall reliability and effectiveness of the electric

fence. Through the integration of renewable energy

and real-time monitoring, this system provides a

sustainable and efficient solution for perimeter

security.

2.3 Methodology

To implement a solar-based electric fence system

effectively, start with a comprehensive site

assessment to identify the best locations for solar

panel installation, ensuring maximum sunlight

exposure. Design the fence layout based on the terrain

and protection needs. Choose solar panels with

adequate wattage and deep-cycle batteries with

enough capacity to store energy for continuous

operation, even during cloudy days or nighttime.

Select an energizer that can convert stored energy into

high-voltage pulses suitable for the fence's length and

load, and use high-tensile steel or aluminum wires

along with appropriate insulators to prevent current

loss.

Begin the installation by positioning and

mounting the solar panels. Connect them to the

battery system through a charge controller to manage

energy flow and prevent overcharging. Set up the

energizer and connect it to the fence wires, ensuring

proper insulation and secure connections. Place

voltage monitoring sensors at regular intervals along

the fence to measure voltage levels continuously and

detect any drops indicating faults.

Conduct initial testing and calibration to ensure all

components are functioning correctly. Power up the

system and perform tests to verify the operation of the

solar panels, batteries, energizer, and fence wires.

Adjust the energizer as needed to deliver the desired

ISPES 2024 - International Conference on Intelligent and Sustainable Power and Energy Systems

high-voltage pulses, and check voltage levels along

the fence to ensure they meet required thresholds.

Regular maintenance and manual monitoring are

essential to ensure the system's reliability. Regularly

check the system's functionality and battery charge

levels, monitor the voltage sensors for drops, and

investigate any faults. Perform routine maintenance

on the solar panels, batteries, and fence wires to

maintain optimal performance.

For future enhancements, consider integrating IoT

technologies for remote monitoring and control. This

would reduce manual oversight, increase efficiency,

and improve overall reliability. By following this

methodology, the solar-based electric fence system

can provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and

environmentally friendly solution for securing

perimeters in areas with ample sunlight.

2.4 Matlab Simulation

Figure 2 MATLAB Simulink diagram of solar-based

electric fenc

2.5 Matlab Simulation Result

Figure 3 MATLAB Simulink input voltage output

Figure 4 MATLAB Simulink output current

Figure 5 MATLAB Simulink output of output voltage

2.6 Matlab Simulation Explanation

The diagram illustrates a solar-powered electric fence

system designed to ensure continuous operation and

effective monitoring. The setup begins with solar

panels, which capture sunlight and convert it into

electrical energy. This energy is stored in a battery,

ensuring that the system remains operational even

during nighttime or overcast conditions. The energy

from the battery is managed by a charge controller to

prevent overcharging and ensure efficient use of

stored power.

An Arduino microcontroller acts as the system's

central unit, continuously monitoring the voltage

levels of the electric fence. This monitoring is

facilitated by voltage sensors placed at regular

intervals along the fence. The collected data is then

transmitted to a Central Monitoring System (CMS)

Solar Based Electric Fence

through a communication module, which uses

wireless technology to maintain a seamless data flow.

If the voltage drops below a predetermined

threshold, the fault identification system, integrated

with the Arduino, flags the specific section as faulty.

A buzzer connected to the Arduino triggers an alert,

notifying the on-duty operator. The CMS provides a

user-friendly interface displaying real-time data on

voltage levels and the status of each fence section,

enabling prompt identification and repair of faults.

The power amplifier board boosts the electrical

power to a level suitable for the electric fence,

ensuring that the high-voltage pulses create an

effective deterrent barrier. This comprehensive

system design leverages renewable solar energy, real-

time monitoring, and advanced fault detection to

provide a sustainable and efficient solution for

perimeter security, particularly in remote areas with

limited access to the electrical grid.

2.7 Simulation Process

The solar-based electric fence system seamlessly

integrates the advantages of renewable energy and

modern technology to provide a reliable and

sustainable perimeter security solution. At its core,

solar panels harness sunlight, converting it into

electrical energy, which is then stored in batteries to

ensure continuous operation even during periods

without direct sunlight. A charge controller

efficiently manages the flow of energy from the solar

panels to the batteries, preventing overcharging and

maintaining optimal performance.

Once the energy is stored, it is utilized by an

energizer that converts it into high-voltage pulses.

These pulses are essential for the fence's deterrent

function, as they are transmitted through conductive

wires that form the perimeter of the electric fence.

These wires are insulated to prevent any loss of

current, ensuring that the high-voltage pulses

maintain their effectiveness.

To ensure the system's reliability, voltage

monitoring sensors are strategically placed along the

fence to continuously measure the voltage levels. If

these sensors detect a voltage drop below a preset

threshold, the fault identification system flags the

specific section as faulty. This information is then

transmitted wirelessly to a Central Monitoring

System (CMS) via a communication module.

The CMS provides a user-friendly interface that

displays real-time data on voltage levels and the

status of each fence section. Operators receive

immediate alerts when a fault is detected, allowing

them to promptly inspect and repair the affected

sections. This not only ensures that the fence remains

effective but also minimizes downtime and potential

breaches.

This system is particularly beneficial for remote

and rural areas where access to the electrical grid is

limited or nonexistent. By leveraging solar energy,

the system reduces operational costs and

environmental impact, making it an eco-friendly and

cost-effective solution for perimeter security. The

combination of renewable energy and advanced

monitoring technology enhances the reliability and

efficiency of traditional electric fences, providing a

modern solution to an age-old problem.

3 CONCLUSION

A solar-based electric fence is a security solution that

harnesses solar energy to create an effective barrier,

primarily used in agricultural settings to protect

livestock or crops. The system consists of solar panels

that capture sunlight and convert it into electrical

energy, which is stored in batteries to ensure

continuous operation, even during periods of low

sunlight. This energy powers an energizer, which

generates high-voltage pulses transmitted through

conductive fence wires. When an animal or intruder

touches the fence, they receive a brief but impactful

shock, serving as a deterrent. The system includes

voltage monitoring sensors placed along the fence to

continuously check voltage levels. If a drop below the

rated value is detected, a fault identification system

flags the affected section and transmits this

information to a Central Monitoring System (CMS)

via a wireless communication module. The CMS

provides real-time alerts to the operator, enabling

prompt inspection and repair. This setup combines

renewable energy with advanced monitoring to

ensure reliable and efficient fence operation, making

it ideal for remote locations with limited access to

grid electricity. Overall, it offers a sustainable, cost-

effective solution for perimeter security.A solar-

based electric fence is a security solution that

harnesses solar energy to create an effective barrier,

primarily used in agricultural settings to protect

livestock or crops. The system consists of solar panels

that capture sunlight and convert it into electrical

energy, which is stored in batteries to ensure

continuous operation, even during periods of low

sunlight. This energy powers an energizer, which

generates high-voltage pulses transmitted through

conductive fence wires. When an animal or intruder

touches the fence, they receive a brief but impactful

shock, serving as a deterrent. The system includes

ISPES 2024 - International Conference on Intelligent and Sustainable Power and Energy Systems

voltage monitoring sensors placed along the fence to

continuously check voltage levels. If a drop below the

rated value is detected, a fault identification system

flags the affected section and transmits this

information to a Central Monitoring System (CMS)

via a wireless communication module. The CMS

provides real-time alerts to the operator, enabling

prompt inspection and repair. This setup combines

renewable energy with advanced monitoring to

ensure reliable and efficient fence operation, making

it ideal for remote locations with limited access to

grid electricity. Overall, it offers a sustainable, cost-

effective solution for perimeter security.

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Solar Based Electric Fence