Another problem with mains powered transmitters are they will likely cease to operate during a power failure. Mains powered transmitters can suffer damage from power surges on the mains supply or from lightning hitting the soil near your boundary wire. Although some mains transmitters incorporate a degree of lightning protection and have you install earthing rods, this never eliminates the risk. Solar power proves to be the only cost effective method because it virtually eliminates this risk. On average, the transmitter requires a minimum of three hours per day of direct sunlight.
Some days can be completely cloudy.
The internal batteries average out these fluctuations. For most parts of the world, the three hour average is available all year around. Check our animated sunshine map for details on your location.