If you’ve got an electric gate and you are looking to convert it to a solar gate opener, you absolutely can. Converting your electric gate to a solar gate is also a surprisingly approachable project if you get a good solar panel, a charge controller, and all the necessary wiring and mounting hardware.
However, this project requires at least an above-average level of electrical skill and knowledge, but it is worth it.
Whether you're looking to cut your electricity bill, stay powered during outages, or just live a bit greener, converting your electric gate to solar is a smart upgrade.
- So, how do you convert an electric gate to a solar gate?
- What do you need to buy?
- How much might it cost?
Stick around because we will give you everything you need and help you answer another important question: could a hybrid setup be the best bang for your buck?
Everything You Need to Convert Your Electric Gate to Solar
There are 4 main items you need to convert any electric gate to a solar gate opener: a solar panel, a charge controller, a deep-cycle battery, and some wiring and mounting hardware.
1. Solar Panel (12V or 24V)
Choose a panel that matches your gate system’s voltage. In other words, the solar panel must match the capacity of the gate opener motor.
Electric gate openers typically come with 12V or 24V motors, so in most cases, a 20- 60W gate opener will do. For a lightweight gate opener in a private home with low foot traffic, a 20–30W panel will suffice.
- For context, lightweight gate openers have a gate capacity of up to about 1000 lbs. They are usually single-swing gate openers
If you have a heavyweight electric gate (motor power above 1,000W) or you live in an area with bad weather and heavy foot traffic, go for a 40W-60W solar panel.
These are good for heavyweight gate openers, which is what you need in this scenario.
Pro Tip:
Mount your solar panel where it gets direct sun for most of the day (south-facing if you're in the Northern Hemisphere).
2. A Charge Controller
The charge controller regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panel to your battery. It prevents overcharging, overheating, and deep discharges.
Make sure you choose a charge controller that supports your battery type (AGM, GEL, etc).
Also, a charge controller may not be needed in every scenario.
3. A Deep Cycle Battery
The battery stores the solar energy so your gate can run at night or on cloudy days. Here are two reasons why a deep-cycle battery works:
- They are designed to deliver steady power over long periods. Unlike car batteries, they are made for long-term use.
- Deep cycle batteries can handle more frequent charging and discharging without breaking down like standard batteries.
Go for at least a 20Ah capacity battery. 35Ah if traffic through the gate is very high, and it is opened pretty frequently. For lighter, longer-lasting, better performance, you can choose a LiFePO4 (a little more expensive).
4. Wiring & Mounting Hardware
- If mounting outside, get UV-resistant, weatherproof cables rated for outdoor use.
- Get proper mounting brackets or poles for your solar panel — stability matters.
- Include fuses or circuit breakers for safety.
Do You Need an Inverter?
If your gate opener requires AC input and you’re supplying DC from solar, then you need an inverter.
However, inverters reduce efficiency, so a DC-compatible gate is much better.
How to Convert Your Gate to Solar
With all the equipment put together, it is time to convert your electric gate to solar. Follow these steps:
- Disconnect the existing AC power from your gate opener.
- Mount the solar panel in a sunny, unobstructed spot. For more sunlight, consider mounting higher.
- Wire the solar panel to your charge controller.
- Connect the charge controller to your deep-cycle battery.
- Wire the battery to the gate opener’s power input, ensuring correct polarity and voltage.
Tip: Always double-check voltages. Mismatching a 12V panel with a 24V gate opener can fry your system or render it useless.
Estimated Cost of Converting an Electric Gate to Solar
| Component | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
| Solar Panel (20–50W) | $30–60 | $70–120 | $150+ |
| Charge Controller | $15–25 | $30–50 | $60+ |
| Battery (12V, 20–35Ah) | $40–70 (AGM) | $100–150 (AGM) | $180–300 (LiFePO4) |
| Wiring + Hardware | $20–40 | $50–80 | $100+ |
| Total | $105–195 | $250–400 | $450–600+ |
Money-Saver Tip: Starting with AGM batteries can lower your initial cost. Upgrade to LiFePO4 later when budget allows.
Should You Convert? Or Try a Hybrid Gate Opener
If you're starting from scratch, a hybrid-capable opener is hands-down the best move. They are designed to switch automatically between solar/battery and AC Power.
Zumi Gate Openers, for example, offer four flexible power options to suit your needs: solar panels for off-grid use, battery or AC power for reliable energy, or both solar and battery power for optimal performance in any situation.
Consider a Hybrid Gate Opener
- They are designed to switch automatically between solar/battery and AC power. No guesswork, no voltage mismatches, no fuss.
- If the sun isn’t shining, your system automatically uses AC power. Power outage? It switches to battery.
- Most hybrids are plug-and-play for solar — just add a panel and a battery. No rewiring or deep electrical work needed.
- Fewer future upgrade costs. Reduced risk of downtime or repair bills from DIY compatibility issues.
Get an Affordable Automatic Gate Opener
| Brand | Model | Key Features | Price Range |
| Zumi | WS1 / WS2 | Bluetooth app, easy solar setup | $400–600 |
| CO-Z | Solar Kit | Battery included, hybrid-ready | $300–500 |
Zumi has a variety of top-quality but affordable solar gate openers and electric gate openers, all compatible with a variety of driveway gates, from heavy to lightweight. With the Zumi system running your home, you can rest easily, safely, conveniently, and securely.
Zumi gate opener motors are usually DV motors with a motor capacity of 40 to 50V, depending on the capacity of the gate opener.
A lightweight gate opener, like the Zumi W1 Single Swing Gate Opener, should come with a 12V DC motor with a capacity of about 50W.
A heavyweight gate opener, like the WS2 Pro Solar Heavy Dual Swing Gate Opener, must come with a more powerful motor (60W).
Final Thoughts: Is Solar Worth It?
If your gate already uses 12V power, a DIY solar conversion can be a solid investment, especially if you're in a sunny area or want independence from the grid.
Want help figuring out what your gate needs? Visit our product selector page, put in your details, and we will help you select an affordable hybrid model that best fits the specifications of your gate.
