Solar energy is profoundly transforming our urban spaces, and bicycle shelters are no exception.
At ByCommutewe design bicycle shelters capable of generating and storing their own energy thanks to the latest solar kits ready to wire. These systems can be used to recharge electric bicycles, power LED lighting, secure lockers, and more. access control - without any connection to the power grid.
The aim of this guide is to give you a clear, technical and practical overview of what solar energy can do for bicycle shelters, and to help you choose the solution best suited to your needs.
1. Understanding how a solar kit for bike shelters works
A solar kit for bike shelters is an energy-saving solution stand-alonedesigned to work off-gridwithout any connection work. It consists of several complementary components, all pre-configured to work together.
Plug & play operation
The kit arrives fully wired: simply attach it to the shelter and plug in the appropriate connections. The system is up and running in just a few hours, and remains scalable A panel or battery can be added as required.
2. Applications for ByCommute solar kits
Our solar kits are designed to meet several concrete usesto meet the needs of local authorities, businesses and landlords. Here are the most common applications:
Electric bike recharging
Capacity 2 to 10 bikes recharged simultaneously (more on request).
Power supply Dedicated socket for each bike, conforming to standard power ratings.
Key benefit rapid deployment, no need for EDF connection, smooth operation for users.
Combined uses
ByCommute solutions enable you to combine several uses in the same shelter :
- Recharging + lighting + access control
- Refill + secure lockers
- Lighting only (in sensitive or low-traffic areas)
Stand-alone access control
Compatible equipment electromagnetic suction pads, magnetic locks, RFID badges.
Installation pre-configured system, powered directly by the solar kit.
Securing Access reserved for authorized users, no electrical connection required.
Examples of use schools, businesses, residences.
Power supply for electric lockers
Function secure recharging of bicycle or scooter batteries, in a closed locker.
Usefulness for users whose batteries cannot be recharged on the frame.
Target audience Social landlords, companies, local authorities for shared use.
Added value prevents theft, protects equipment, ideal for public use.
Self-contained LED lighting
Lighting type LEDs with motion detection or programmed switch-on.
ByCommute special feature : system directly integrated into the solar box.
The ByCommute advantage each kit is custom-sized depending on the actual needs of the site. A feasibility study is systematically proposed.
3. Solar kit installation and commissioning
Two installation options
Shelters already equipped Some ByCommute models are delivered directly with an integrated solar kit.
Existing shelters The solar kit can be added to any ByCommute shelter (or future shelter), without any technical adaptation.
A plug & play system
Pre-configured solar box contains batteries, MPPT controller, connections and electrical protection.
Complete pre-wiring everything is prepared in the workshop, all that's left to do is fix and connect.
Easy mounting The enclosure is designed to be fixed in a corner of the enclosure, without the need for complex drilling or special hardware.
Who can install the kit?
ByCommute installers available throughout France (only on ByCommute shelters).
Customer's technical teams The clear instructions make it possible if you prefer to do it yourself.
Average installation time In just a few hours, with no need to connect to the power grid.
Immediate start-up
Simple connection Just like a plug. No complex settings.
Automatic self-test The system starts up by itself as soon as it is exposed to light.
Customer support If required, our technical team can provide remote support.
Scalable system
Easy to add modules A second panel, battery or additional housing can be integrated at a later date.
Anticipating future needs We dimension the system so that it can evolve with usage (addition of lockers, extra bikes, etc.).
The ByCommute advantage no need for electrical skills, no declaration of works for the kit itself, and guaranteed autonomy from day one.
4. Compatibility of solar kits with ByCommute bicycle shelters
One of the strengths of the ByCommute solar solution lies in its full compatibility with our entire range of bicycle shelters, whether open or closed, in wood or recycled containers.
Compatible with all models
Solar kits are 100 % compatible with :
No adaptation required The kit integrates naturally into all our shelters.
Compatible with all shelter formats
Open or semi-open shelters ideal for installing LED lighting only.
Enclosed shelters Perfect for recharging, lockers or access control.
Individual or shared shelters The size can be adapted to the number of users (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 or more bikes).
Installation on all types of structures
Flat or slightly sloping roof Our panels can be installed flat, although a 30-35° tilt improves performance.
Side or roof mounting The new "S" : adaptable to the configuration of the site and the shelter.
Can be added after installation
Even if the shelter was originally installed without a solar kit, you can equip it at any time. The system is designed to be added without modifying the structure.
The ByCommute solar kit is transversal and modular one system, infinite uses.
5. Service life and maintenance
Once installed, our kits operate autonomously, with no intervention required on the part of the customer.
Component lifetime (average estimate)
Solar panels :
Service life between 25 and 30 yearswith a slight gradual decline in yield (around 0.5 % per year after 20 years).
Designed to withstand weather, wind, snow and UV.Lithium batteries :
Lifetime of 10 to 15 yearsdepending on the number of charging cycles and operating conditions (up to 5,000 cycles).
MPPT charge controller :
Service life between 10 and 15 yearsno moving parts, low risk of failure.
IP65 enclosure (containing all components) :
Resistant to moisture, dust and impact. Estimated lifetime between 10 and 20 yearsdepending on exposure.
Preventive maintenance
No customer intervention required The system is designed to operate in complete autonomy.
Panel cleaning recommended once a yearif exposed to dust or leaves (optional in lightly soiled areas).
No software to update, no configuration to manage.
Follow-up and assistance
Remote monitoring option On-demand monitoring: possible on demand, to monitor system performance, detect a drop in production or trigger an intervention.
ByCommute support available Our teams can intervene remotely or on site if necessary.
If you have any questions or would like to request specific maintenance, please visit the Contact us.
6. Who is this solution designed for?
The solar-powered solution developed by ByCommute is aimed at all those wishing to offer a secure, autonomous and environmentally-friendly bicycle infrastructure, without electrical connection constraints. It meets both permanent needs and temporary projects.
Local authorities
Typical uses Bicycle parking facilities in suburban areas, schools, stations, public facilities not connected to the network.
Issues :
Offering a charging solution without work
Meeting energy transition requirements
Making public spaces safer
Key benefit the solar kit can be installed even on isolated or classified sites
Companies and business parks
Typical uses Bicycle shelters for employees, company campuses, industrial or logistics zones.
Issues :
Facilitating soft mobility for employees
Reducing carbon footprint as part of a CSR approach
Reduce installation costs
Key benefit no administrative procedures for electrical connection
Social landlords and residence managers
Typical uses secure collective shelters in residences, shared or closed areas.
Issues :
Offering shared recharging for residents
Avoid complex connections in dense environments
A modern, attractive infrastructure
Key benefit possibility of adding closed compartments for removable batteries
Specific or temporary projects
Typical uses events, construction sites, temporary mobility.
Issues :
Need for temporary, quick-to-implement solutions
Total energy autonomy, no work required
Key benefit easy to dismantle and reuse
The ByCommute advantage Our kits are suitable for new projects than renovationswith or without an existing electrical connection.
7. Additional services and options
At ByCommute, solar solutions don't stop at the hardware. To suit every project, we offer a range of additional services andà la carte optionsto guarantee simple, rapid deployment, perfectly adapted to field use.
Feasibility study and sizing
Carried out upstream of each project
Takes into account: geographical location, site orientation, number of bikes to be recharged, autonomy requirements, desired options (lighting, lockers, etc.).
To propose a customized solutionwithout unnecessary oversizing
Why is this important? Each site is unique. This study ensures that the system performs well all year round, even in winter or when there is little sunshine.
Integrated signage
Branding option or educational panels integrated into the shelter
Explanations of how solar energy works, recharging points, safety instructions
Promoting the sustainable approach of the supporting structure (local authority, company, landlord)
Consumption monitoring and remote surveillance (optional)
Remote monitoring of solar performance
Detecting production anomalies
Consumption history (useful for CSR reporting or subsidies)
Available as an option, on request when ordering
Custom solutions
Addition of specific functions (heating, ventilation, additional lighting, etc.)
Integration into sensitive or heritage sites
Specific mechanical or electrical adaptations
For all non-standard requests, simply contact our team via the page Contact us.
8. Frequently asked questions
Does the solar kit work even when there's little sun?
Yes, the system is sized according to the geographical location of the site. Even in winter or on overcast days, the batteries guarantee several days' autonomy, depending on the chosen use (lighting, recharging, access control, etc.).
How many bikes can be charged with a single kit?
Our kits are designed to recharge 2 to 10 bikes as standard, but we can go further on request. Sizing is always based on the number of outlets, the type of use and the expected frequency of use.
Can I add the solar kit on an existing shelter?
Yes, all ByCommute shelters are compatible with solar kits, whether already installed or planned. Adding the kit does not require no structural modifications.
What types of bikes can be recharged?
All standard electric bikes can be recharged, provided you have the correct plug type. For bikes with removable batteries, we also offer secure electric lockers.
What about electric scooters?
This is also possible. The lockers or sockets can be used to charge scooters, provided that the power requirements are specified in the design.
Do I need a permit or declaration to install a solar kit?
The solar kit itself requires no specific authorization. For bike shelters, however, you may need to file a prior declaration, depending on the municipality, the size of the shelter and the location. We can help you with these formalities if required.
Is there a risk of theft or vandalism?
The solar box is made of steel, with IP65 protection. It can be installed indoors or out of sight. Illumination discourages intrusion, and a remote surveillance is available as an option.
Can I track my energy consumption?
Yes, on request. A system of performance monitoring and consumption history can be installed, useful for carbon audits, CSR policies or grant reports.
How do I maintain my solar kit?
No technical maintenance is required for the customer. A simple panel cleaning once a year is sufficient in most cases. For further information or assistance, please contact our teams via the page Contact us.
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