Kevin Conlin’s firm Autonomous Power Solutions designs and sells solar powered billboard systems.  Insider asked Conlin for an update on trends in solar powered billboards.

What’s new over the past year?

2020 was terrible. It seemed the second half of last year everyone’s budgets contracted, and our solar  business virtually dried up.  We are seeing a lot more activity this year.  Contracts are returning and the quote level has gone way up.  Those are good signs that 2021 is coming back.

Who’s asking for solar billboard quotes?

Everyone, but my biggest customers are the small independents.  Clear Channel is a good customer, and we just did a small job for OUTFRONT in New Orleans, but mostly it’s the independents.  I think the bigger companies are more focused on digital now, rather than bringing power to their lonely statics.

Independents are great solar customers?

Absolutely! Meadow Outdoor is a good customer, and Reagan in Salt Lake City is another good customer.  Both often have boards in rural locations, perhaps along an Interstate, where running power is just too costly.  I enjoy working with the small companies because each board is different. That means we have to know details about the construction, orientation, etc…and work closely with the electricians and installers.  They’re always eager to help and eager to learn.

Reagan Outdoor always places solar panels due south for best performance as these installations demonstrate.

I think companies like Meadow and Reagan look to the long term.  They are more willing to pay for a high quality system that will last the 25-30 year life of the board.  They look at things on a long-term basis and are willing to invest to avoid problems down the road.  It’s clear they want a reliable, trouble free solution for their customers. 

What are the costs for solar? 

Under $10,000 in a sunny climate, but as then as high as $20000 in a northern climate.  We just quoted a project in NE Pennsylvania today.  The solar system is almost $20,000 not including the lights. A reliable solar lighting system has to be sized to perform in the winter – with a weak sun, long cloudy periods and cold batteries. That means you have to put in a bigger solar array and bigger batteries.  A system in Nevada might be OK with 5-6 days of reserve, but one in Pennsylvania or New York needs 10-12 days to be reliable.

To contact Kevin Conlin, call 844-909-9095 or email kconlin@autonomouspwr.com.

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