Geolux has installed a HydroStation monitoring system in Croatia, featuring a solar-powered, fully autonomous hydrological station with a 20 Ah LiFePO4 battery, ensuring 30-day off-grid operation and real-time data transmission via HydroView.
Compact Monitoring System
The station is built around the Geolux HydroStation platform. It includes an LX-80 radar level sensor, RSS-2-300W surface velocity radar, HydroCam camera, SmartObserver datalogger, 20 W solar panel, and 20 Ah lithium-ion backup battery.
All sensors are non-contact, mounted on a bridge over the waterway. Installation and setup took less than 30 minutes. Measurements are taken every 15 minutes, while HydroCam provides hourly site photos. Data is uploaded in real time to HydroView using the SmartObserver’s integrated GPRS modem.
Off-Grid Power Supply
Power is supplied by a solar panel during the day, while the battery ensures operation at night or in low-light conditions. The SmartObserver’s MPPT charging circuit maximizes energy capture even in partial sunlight.
After testing multiple battery types, Geolux selected a LiFePO4 battery for its long cycle life, stability, and safety. Its 20 Ah capacity supports full operation of all instruments without solar input for extended periods.
Battery Autonomy
The system was designed to function autonomously for at least 30 days without solar power. This accounts for scenarios such as extended cloud cover, heavy pollution, snow, or panel damage. Thirty days of reserve capacity provides enough time for service teams to intervene if required.
Running the Test
To validate performance, a live test was conducted. The solar panel was disconnected and the fully charged battery monitored over 30 days. Starting at 13.82 V (100% charge), the battery measured 12.86 V (19% charge) on the final day.
All instruments remained fully operational, even below 20% capacity. When the solar panel was reconnected, the battery recharged from 20% to 100% in under 10 hours of sunlight.
Conclusion
The Lazina project proves that a 20 Ah LiFePO4 battery provides reliable 30-day autonomy for Geolux HydroStations. With efficient solar charging, rugged sensors, and HydroView connectivity, the system delivers dependable, real-time hydrological monitoring even under prolonged off-grid conditions.