Which power supply to choose for indoor and outdoor compacting bins

Smart compacting bins need power for the press, sensors and communications, but not every site needs a mains connection.

Solar compactors use a photovoltaic panel and integrated battery. Mains-powered variants suit locations where solar cannot be used effectively.

This article covers power only. For capacity, press and models see how to choose a compacting bin; for overall operation see how smart compacting bins work.

How solar power works

Energy runs the press, sensors, connectivity and electronics. The battery supplies power when the panel is not producing. WasteMate 120 and 240 manufacturer docs describe outdoor solar setups, confirm on your quote. Bunder pages: 120, 240.

Solar benefits

No mains for ordinary operation where conditions allow; stored energy; more freedom on siting, still subject to exposure, shade and site rules. Main gain: collection points without new grid work.

When mains power

Low light, accessible socket, indoor variant without panel, when offered for your model. Functions (press, monitoring) stay model-dependent; only the power path changes. See WasteMate applications (solar or ~220 V mains); confirm orderable SKUs with Bunder.

Comparison table

How solar power works Energy runs the press, sensors, connectivity and electronics. The battery supplies power when the panel is not producing. WasteMate 120 and 240 manufacturer docs describe outdoor solar setups, confirm on your quote. Bunder pages: 120, 240. Solar benefits No mains for ordinary operation where conditions allow; stored energy; more freedom on siting, still subject to exposure, shade and site rules. Main gain: collection points without new grid work. When mains power Low light, accessible socket, indoor variant without panel, when offered for your model. Functions (press, monitoring) stay model-dependent; only the power path changes. See WasteMate applications (solar or ~220 V mains); confirm orderable SKUs with Bunder. Comparison table

Topic	Solar	Mains
Source	PV + battery	Socket
Grid tie	Not required for normal use	Required
Panel	Yes	No on indoor variant
Light	Must support recharge	Not needed to run
Check	Real energy balance	Supply spec and safety

Power choice does not by itself change compaction performance, verify specs per configuration.

Light, battery, monitoring

Assess exposure, seasonality, usage intensity and electronics load before outdoor solar. Battery: type, stated autonomy, maintenance, replacement, no universal runtime claim. Monitoring via CleanCityManager depends on model/connectivity, not solar vs mains alone. Separate power, capacity and monitoring in your decision.

Four checks before you order

Site and sun; mains availability; expected throughput; supplier-confirmed solar vs electric SKUs.