Lighting a hangar with solar energy: how to choose the optimal system size?

Lighting a hangar isn’t a trivial task. Massive square footage, high ceilings, no natural light, and the need for uniform brightness make this a particularly energy-intensive area. And when the facility operates around the clock, precise calculations become absolutely essential.

That’s why more and more Ukrainian warehouse and logistics center owners are turning their attention to solar power. It’s not just a move toward energy independence — it’s a real opportunity to cut electricity costs. The key lies in calculating the right capacity for the solar power system, so it runs smoothly and efficiently.

Why start with analysis?

Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to understand the specific demands of hangar lighting. This depends on:

  • the size of the building and ceiling height;
  • the number and wattage of light fixtures;
  • the schedule — whether lighting is needed only at night or 24/7;
  • additional systems consuming energy (like ventilation, surveillance, or security).

Let’s say you have a hangar in Zhytomyr, around 1,000 m² in size, with lighting that consumes 20 kW. Operating for 12 hours a day, that’s roughly 240 kWh daily. That load can be covered by a low-cost solar power station in Zhytomyr for logistics centers and warehouses, if the system is sized correctly and uses efficient components.

What affects the system capacity choice?

The general rule is simple: the more energy you consume, the more powerful the system should be. But there are other factors too:

  • the number of sunny days in your region;
  • the tilt and orientation of the panels;
  • seasonal fluctuations in solar generation;
  • whether battery storage is needed (especially for night-time lighting).

As a benchmark: a 30 kW solar power system can produce around 150–180 kWh on a sunny summer day. That’s already enough to cover the lighting needs of a large storage space, especially if it doesn’t run overnight.

In practice, most businesses use hybrid setups — combining solar power with grid supply. This allows them to:

  • save significantly during sunny periods;
  • stay operational regardless of weather conditions;
  • avoid power dips and surges during peak loads.

It’s a flexible approach that’s proven effective across Ukraine.

A typical setup for a medium-sized warehouse

To give a clearer picture, here’s a rough setup for a warehouse between 800 and 1,200 m²:

  1. A solar system of 20–30 kW, depending on energy needs and sunlight.
  2. An inverter with expansion capabilities.
  3. Battery storage, if lighting is needed at night.
  4. A monitoring system to track generation in real time.

Each project is tailored. For example, in Vinnytsia, which gets above-average solar exposure, a 30 kW turnkey solar power station and price in Vinnytsia could be a very cost-effective option even for mid-sized companies.

How to avoid mistakes in sizing?

In this field, accuracy is everything. If you choose the wrong capacity, your system might be inefficient, overbudgeted, or unable to meet demand. That’s why we recommend:

  • performing a full energy audit;
  • taking real consumption patterns into account;
  • analyzing seasonal highs and lows;
  • consulting with a specialized solar provider.

A reliable company won’t just sell you equipment — they’ll help you design a working solution. After all, lighting isn’t something you can afford to lose.

Why solar power is a smart investment

First, you protect yourself from future electricity price spikes. Second, you ensure stability even during outages. And third — you make a responsible, forward-thinking choice for your business. With state and international support for green energy on the rise, investing in solar has never been more accessible.

So if you're wondering, which solar power station to choose: 5, 10, or 30 kW, start with something simple — assess your actual consumption and talk to Dolya Solar Energy. We don’t just sell solar panels — we deliver results.