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Solar CCTV System
Sunstone Systems

Our News, Technologies and Breakthroughs.

Welcome to Sunstone Systems' News page, where you can stay up-to-date on the latest developments in our innovative range of products. We specialize in providing cutting-edge technology solutions for security and power management, including our Solar CCTV System, Solar Power Station, and IO System.

Our Solar CCTV System is a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solution for monitoring remote sites without the need for grid power. With its solar-powered camera, motion detection, and remote access capabilities, it's the perfect choice for surveillance in areas without reliable electricity.

Our Solar Power Station is a portable and versatile power solution that can be used for a wide range of applications, from off-grid power for outdoor events to emergency backup power during a power outage. With its high-capacity battery and solar panels, it's the ideal choice for reliable and sustainable power on-the-go.

Our IO System is a powerful and flexible control system that can be customized to meet the specific needs of your business. Whether you're looking to manage security systems, automate industrial processes, or optimize energy use, our IO System has the features and capabilities to help you achieve your goals.

At Sunstone Systems, we're committed to delivering innovative and high-quality products that help our customers achieve their goals. Check out our News page to learn more about our latest product releases and industry updates.

In the expansive and remote terrains where traditional power sources are scarce, and safeguarding assets is imperative, operators face the daunting task of ensuring continuous and robust security measures. Traditionally, this has necessitated the deployment of personnel, entailing significant costs and logistical complexities to maintain operational readiness in these areas. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift towards the development of autonomous technologies that require minimal support while delivering effective security and surveillance. Solar CCTV Systems have emerged as a versatile solution, capable of deploying advanced security sensors and devices off the grid. These cutting-edge surveillance solutions are rapidly gaining traction in securing remote locations and monitoring critical infrastructure, enhancing safety and protection in even the most challenging environments.


The Need for Robust Security Solutions in Remote Locations

In remote locations, such as oil and gas facilities, mining sites, and isolated infrastructure, the need for robust security solutions is paramount due to several factors. Firstly, the distance from urban centres and the limited access to resources make these areas particularly vulnerable to security threats. Without nearby support or rapid response capabilities, these locations become attractive targets for various criminal activities, including theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access.


Moreover, the impracticality or impossibility of installing traditional power sources in such remote areas exacerbates the security challenges. The lack of reliable electricity infrastructure not only hampers the deployment of conventional surveillance systems but also compromises the effectiveness of security measures. Without a stable power supply, surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and other security devices may fail to operate consistently, leaving critical infrastructure vulnerable to exploitation and sabotage.


Furthermore, the nature of critical infrastructure demands constant monitoring to detect potential intrusions and security breaches promptly. Whether it's monitoring pipelines, protecting mining sites from illegal activities, or ensuring the safety of remote facilities, uninterrupted surveillance is essential for maintaining operational integrity and site safety. Any lapse in security could result in significant financial losses, environmental damage, or even endangerment to personnel working in these remote locations.


The Advantages of Solar-Powered CCTV Systems

Environmental Sustainability: These platforms are eco-friendly because they use solar energy, reducing their carbon footprint. This helps support sustainable practices and environmental protection, which aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and use cleaner technologies.


Cost-Effective Deployment: In remote areas, installing conventional power lines can prove prohibitively expensive and time-consuming. These systems eliminate the necessity for hardwired electrical infrastructure, presenting a cost-effective alternative. Once installed, these systems operate autonomously, obviating ongoing operational costs.


Off-Grid Reliability: These systems are engineered to function seamlessly even in off-grid positions. Their durable construction and robust battery storage ensure uninterrupted surveillance, delivering continuous operation devoid of interruptions, even during extended periods of limited sunlight. This off-grid reliability makes them particularly well-suited for remote locations where traditional power sources are inaccessible or impractical.


Scalability and Flexibility: These systems can offer scalability and flexibility in deployment, allowing for easy expansion or relocation as security needs evolve or geographical conditions change. With modular components and wireless connectivity options, these systems can adapt to varying surveillance requirements without the need for extensive rewiring or infrastructure modifications.


Remote Monitoring and Control: They often come equipped with advanced remote monitoring and control capabilities, enabling users to access live camera feeds, adjust settings, and receive alerts remotely via mobile devices or computer interfaces. This remote accessibility enhances situational awareness and allows for timely responses to security incidents, regardless of the user's physical location.


Resilience to Power Outages: Traditional CCTV systems reliant on grid power are vulnerable to disruptions caused by power outages or grid failures. In contrast, Solar CCTV Systems have built-in resilience to such events, thanks to their independent power source and battery backup. This resilience ensures continuous surveillance operation, even in adverse conditions, safeguarding critical assets and infrastructure.


Low Maintenance Requirements: They generally have lower maintenance requirements compared to grid-powered counterparts. With fewer moving parts and simplified electrical components, these systems are less prone to wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent maintenance visits and associated costs. This advantage is particularly beneficial in remote or hard-to-reach locations where regular maintenance may be challenging.


Withstanding the Toughest Conditions

The ability of these systems to withstand tough conditions is paramount for ensuring continuous monitoring and security in various environments. Whether deployed in remote locations, industrial sites, or outdoor settings, they face numerous challenges that can compromise their effectiveness if not adequately addressed.


Firstly, extreme weather conditions pose a significant threat to deployed equipment. From scorching heat to freezing cold, high winds to heavy rainfall, exposure to harsh elements can damage delicate components and disrupt system functionality. Systems should be engineered to withstand such conditions ensure uninterrupted operation, allowing them to function reliably regardless of the weather.


Moreover, remote locations and industrial sites often entail exposure to dust, dirt, and corrosive substances. Without proper protection, these contaminants can infiltrate the equipment, leading to malfunctions and reduced lifespan. It is imperative they are equipped with dust and corrosion resistance features are better equipped to withstand these environmental challenges, maintaining optimal performance over time.


Additionally, the risk of vandalism and tampering cannot be overlooked, especially in public spaces or high-risk areas. Surveillance systems vulnerable to sabotage or damage can compromise security efforts and undermine the safety of the premises. Therefore, these systems should incorporate tamper-proof design elements, such as reinforced housings and impact-resistant materials, is essential for deterring unauthorised interference and preserving the integrity of the system.


Streaming Surveillance is Mission Critical

Streaming surveillance footage to monitoring centres is a critical aspect of modern security systems, and Solar CCTV Systems are no different.

 

Real-Time Monitoring and Alert Systems: Solar CCTV Systems are equipped with sophisticated monitoring capabilities that enable real-time surveillance and remote access to surveillance footage. Utilising advanced analytics, these systems can swiftly detect potential threats, intrusions, or unusual activities, triggering immediate alerts to monitoring centres or security personnel. This proactive approach ensures that any security incidents are promptly identified and addressed, enhancing overall safety and security.

 

Data Transmission and Connectivity: They can leverage robust data transmission technology to facilitate seamless and reliable connectivity, even in off-grid locations. This allows for the continuous streaming of surveillance footage to centralised monitoring centres, regardless of the system's remote placement. With this real-time access to live feeds, security personnel can monitor activities, assess situations, and respond promptly to emerging threats or incidents. The ability to transmit data efficiently and securely ensures that monitoring centres are always informed and equipped to take appropriate actions, contributing to a more effective security posture.

 

The Future of Off-grid Technologies

The future of solar-powered systems holds great promise, with ongoing research and development focused on enhancing efficiency, scalability, and affordability. Anticipated trends in this market include:


Enhanced Energy Harvesting: Continuous advancements in solar panel technology are expected to yield higher energy conversion rates, enabling surveillance systems to operate with increased efficiency. These breakthroughs will allow surveillance systems to capture and convert sunlight into electricity more effectively than ever before, enhancing operational efficiency and providing a reliable and sustainable power source for essential components such as surveillance cameras and communication devices.


Integration with 5G and LTE: As 5G and LTE networks continue to expand, they will seamlessly integrate with high-speed communication systems. This integration will enable faster data transmission and improved video streaming, facilitating real-time access to critical information. By harnessing the power of 5G technology, solar-powered surveillance systems will not only enhance operational efficiency but also enable advanced features such as remote monitoring, AI-driven analytics, and seamless connectivity in remote and off-grid locations.


Autonomous Surveillance: AI-powered systems will increasingly become autonomous, enabling real-time analysis and decision-making without human intervention. AI algorithms will process vast amounts of data from surveillance cameras and sensors, swiftly identifying potential threats and anomalies. This autonomy will enhance responsiveness, as surveillance systems can promptly detect and respond to security breaches or unusual activities, preventing potential incidents from escalating and streamlining operations by reducing human intervention.


Integration of Multi-Sensors: Future systems may integrate multiple sensors, including thermal imaging and environmental monitoring capabilities, expanding their capabilities and potential use cases. By incorporating data from diverse sensors alongside traditional surveillance cameras, these systems can offer comprehensive insights and analyses. Thermal imaging will enable the detection of heat signatures, facilitating intrusion detection in low-light or challenging conditions, while environmental monitoring will allow surveillance systems to assess air quality, temperature, and other factors impacting security or asset protection. This multi-sensor integration will broaden the scope of solar-powered surveillance applications, making it a versatile tool for industries ranging from security to environmental monitoring.


In conclusion, deploying solar-powered surveillance and telecommunications systems in remote locations represents a significant advancement in safeguarding assets and ensuring continuous security measures. With the challenges posed by distant and inaccessible terrains, traditional security methods often fall short. However, the emergence of autonomous technologies, particularly solar-powered solutions, offers a versatile and cost-effective alternative.


The need for robust security solutions in remote locations cannot be overstated. These areas, such as oil and gas facilities or mining sites, are vulnerable to various security threats due to their isolation and limited access to resources. Moreover, the impracticality of installing traditional power sources further complicates security efforts. Solar-powered systems address these challenges by providing sustainable, off-grid surveillance capabilities.

Also, they can offer numerous advantages, including environmental sustainability, cost-effective deployment, and off-grid reliability. Their ability to withstand tough conditions, such as extreme weather and environmental hazards, ensures uninterrupted operation and longevity. Additionally, these systems incorporate advanced features like real-time monitoring, remote access, and data transmission, enhancing overall security effectiveness.

Streaming surveillance footage to monitoring centres is a crucial aspect of modern security systems, and solar-powered CCTV systems excel in delivering off-grid connectivity for this purpose. Real-time monitoring and alert systems, coupled with robust data transmission technology, enable seamless surveillance operations, even in remote locations.


Looking ahead, these technologies hold immense promise. Anticipated trends include enhanced energy harvesting, high-speed communication networks, autonomous surveillance capabilities, and the integration of multi-sensors. These advancements will further enhance the efficiency, scalability, and affordability of solar-powered surveillance and telecommunications systems, paving the way for safer and smarter environments in remote locations.

In a collaborative effort between Kier Highways, National Highways, and Birmingham City Airport, Sunstone was tasked with providing a cutting-edge surveillance solution for a crucial carriageway serving the NEC and Birmingham Airport. This project brought together key stakeholders to address the need for efficient surveillance in areas prone to high traffic flows, congestion, and potential hazards.


We successfully designed, manufactured, and deployed three Solar CCTV Systems (SICS) in Area 9 for Kier Highways and they provided quick and easy deployment to strategic locations, catering to areas with high traffic volume, interchanges, susceptible to congestion or accidents. The Solar CCTV System (SICS) boasts several key features designed to enhance surveillance efficiency and flexibility, including: 


  • Surveillance Data Transmission: Each Solar CCTV System is equipped to send surveillance data seamlessly via the integrated wireless access point or through a 4G network. This ensures real-time transmission of critical surveillance footage to the National Highways Video Management System (VMS) via the internet.

  • Advanced Camera System: The SICS system includes an Pan, Tilt, and Zoom Camera (PTZ) capable of capturing high-definition footage. This sophisticated camera system offers flexibility in monitoring and can be adjusted remotely to focus on specific areas of interest.

  • Reliable Connectivity: With a Wireless Access Point (150Mbps) or 4G connectivity options, the SICS ensures reliable and high-speed data transmission even in remote locations. This feature enables uninterrupted surveillance coverage regardless of the availability of traditional wired connections.

  • Sustainable Power Solution: The SICS is powered by a robust solar array, coupled with an 800Ahs battery system. This sustainable power solution ensures continuous operation of the surveillance system, reducing dependency on external power sources and minimising environmental impact.

  • Portable and Versatile Design: Designed for mobility and flexibility, the SICS comes with a transport base, telescoping outriggers, and a telecommunications cabinet. This portable design facilitates easy deployment to various locations, allowing for swift installation and repositioning as needed.

  • Optimal Surveillance Coverage: Equipped with a telescoping stainless steel mast and a 360-degree field of view PTZ bracket, the SICS provides comprehensive surveillance coverage. This enables monitoring of vast areas with minimal blind spots, enhancing overall security and situational awareness.

  • Stakeholder Accessibility: Access to the surveillance stream is not limited to designated control centers. Stakeholders can conveniently access the surveillance footage via phone and tablet applications, ensuring widespread accessibility and efficient monitoring by relevant personnel.


The SICS System combines advanced technology, sustainable power solutions, and user-friendly features to deliver reliable and effective surveillance capabilities for enhancing highway safety and security. In addition, the system offers a multitude of benefits, enhancing surveillance efficiency and flexibility in monitoring key roadways. These benefits include:


  • Rapid Deployment: With a streamlined installation process, the SICS can be fully deployed in under one hour. This quick deployment time ensures minimal disruption to traffic flow and allows for swift implementation of surveillance measures to address emerging security concerns or traffic incidents.

  • Minimal Groundworks: The SICS eliminates the need for extensive groundworks, as it does not require hardwired power or data connections. This reduces construction time and costs associated with trenching and laying cables, enabling efficient deployment without compromising on surveillance capabilities.

  • Easy Redeployment: The modular and portable design of the SICS allows for effortless relocation to new locations or in response to changing surveillance requirements. Whether due to shifting traffic patterns or evolving security needs, the system can be easily redeployed to address emerging priorities without significant logistical challenges.

  • High-Speed Connectivity: The SICS leverages high-speed surveillance and data connections over 4G or free-to-air wireless networks. This ensures real-time transmission of surveillance footage to control centres or relevant stakeholders, enabling prompt response to incidents and enhancing overall situational awareness.


By offering rapid deployment, minimal groundworks, easy redeployment, and high-speed connectivity, the SICS System optimises surveillance capabilities while minimising operational disruptions and costs. This translates to improved efficiency in monitoring key roadways, ensuring enhanced safety and security for both motorists and pedestrians alike.

The success of our Solar CCTV System deployment has been recognized on multiple fronts. It was awarded Project of the Year at the Security and Fire Excellence Awards 2017 and shortlisted for Product of the Year at the British Engineering Excellence Awards 2018. Additionally, it received commendation at the Chartered Institute of Highways & Transportation Awards 2018 for its innovation in collaboration with Kier Highways and Carnell.


Furthermore, a cost-benefit analysis conducted by Highways England revealed significant savings, estimating over £130,000 per deployment compared to traditional hard-wired security systems.


Our Solar CCTV System has proven to be an effective and innovative solution for enhancing surveillance along key carriageways, offering swift deployment, autonomous operation, and substantial cost savings. Its recognition and accolades underscore its impact and effectiveness in ensuring safety and security on our highways.

Using Sunstone’s Solar CCTV System, Balfour Beatty has achieved surveillance coverage for a section of roadworks approx. 3km long without the need for ground works, cable runs or additional road closures.


Balfour Beatty’s road works and highways experience includes specialising in various fields such as road design, construction, asset management and providing maintenance. They offer a range of services from design, build, finance and operate to smart motorway schemes. They have long-established relationships with the Department for Transport, Highways England, Transport Scotland, the Welsh Assembly Government and many local authorities.


Balfour Beatty were awarded the project to make highway improvements to a section of the A2 in Kent. Sunstone were asked to provide surveillance for the section of the carriageway with images being relayed back to a control room within the works compound. The most important factors for the client at the brief stage were:

  • Monitoring of the cameras

  • PTZ function to be able to investigate an incident if required

  • Best possible image quality day and night

  • Ideally 500m centres for each SICS System 


The Solar CCTV System (SICS) is powered entirely by renewable energy all year round and requires no groundworks or infrastructure in place to deliver HD quality traffic monitoring over the cellular network.


Built upon the company’s core principle of developing solar-powered game-changing security and communications technology, the SICS is ideally suited for highways security and is recommended by the Highways Agency as a “business as usual product.”


The project start date was during the lockdown period of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite disruption in supply chain services and staff re-allocation, Sunstone were able to deliver five SICS Systems to the Balfour Beatty Compound during April and May 2020 in time for the roadworks commencing. Not restricted by power or cable needs, the units are designed to be deployed and streaming live within minutes of positioning. Sunstone provided training to the Balfour Beatty operational team to allow them to deploy and commission the units themselves reducing the number of operatives on the highway and significantly reducing road closure time.


The SICS System delivers images back to the onsite monitoring team via a 3G/4G connection with high-level encryption. They can also operate on a wireless point to point or point to multi-point wireless mesh network. Each system is installed with a Tether Box, these link into an online viewing portal providing a very user-friendly tool to access images without the need for an additional VMS platform. Each user can be provided with full or restricted access to the cameras via password and there is a clear audit trail for any data captured.


Due to the distance between each system, Sunstone selected the Nautilus camera supplied by CBC UK. The camera not only offers exceptional HD image quality over a significant distance, it also operates with a low power draw making it ideal for a solar powered solution. Night-time images are also extremely clear as the cameras have long range infrared and white light options which can be controlled remotely by an approved operator.

 At a time where businesses look to cut their carbon footprint, Balfour Beatty leads the way in the Highways industry by using the SICS – a zero-emissions solution. At the time of writing the units have been fully operational with camera operators continuously working the PTZ functions for over 3 months, operating entirely on solar energy with no need for recharging or physical visits to the units. Sunstone’s remote health check software allows for power monitoring to take place offsite and any issues that may arise can be addressed before surveillance images are lost.


Sunstone CEO Paul Schelhaas said ‘Sunstone is committed to advancing robust, smarter surveillance and communications solutions, powered by renewable energy. It makes business sense for companies like Balfour Beatty not to be limited by cabled power sources and data lines, and our solutions enable businesses to reduce their carbon footprint’ and ‘the SICS is perfect for use on Highways and proven to save money against alternative solutions. We are delighted that the Highways Agency have approved this product for use on the UK’s road infrastructure and to be working with Balfour Beatty, such a key player in this sector. We will be trialing a Stopped Vehicle Detection solution on this site in the next few weeks to further enhance our technology.


The feedback from the Balfour Beatty project team on both the image quality provided and ease of use has been incredibly positive. One of the biggest advantages on a project like this has been that the Operating Team can deploy and reposition the systems whenever they require without the presence of the Sunstone engineers reducing road closure time, reducing the health and safety risk onsite and allowing complete client autonomy.


Darren Lindsay, Construction Manager at Balfour Beatty said “We have been extremely pleased with the surveillance systems provided by Sunstone Systems, the picture quality from the cameras is excellent with crystal clear images for incident investigation when required. Our monitoring team and stakeholders have found the Tether software easy to use both to view and control the cameras. The use of renewable energy solutions is always of interest to us and this solution provides us with the image quality we require whilst being powered by solar. A huge advantage with these units is that after a very brief training session from the Sunstone team in our compound our engineers were able to deploy and commission the systems themselves within a few hours. This means that we can plan the installation in with our own work plans and road closures. We will also be able to reposition the units ourselves as the works progress.”

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