Lighthouses are primarily powered by mains electricity, with some utilizing Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) in remote locations. RTGs draw power from the heat generated by the decay of radioactive isotopes, providing a reliable energy source with half-lives of over 20 years. In addition to traditional power sources, there is potential for wind and solar energy to power lighthouses, especially given their typical locations in windy areas. However, backup systems such as diesel generators or mains power are essential for reliability.
PREREQUISITESMaritime engineers, renewable energy researchers, lighthouse operators, and anyone interested in the energy systems of remote installations.
vk6kro said:Since they are usually built in windy places, wind generators charging batteries or solar power charging batteries should be possible
Check out this bad boy 100W LEDDanger said:If local bylaws allow it, and if you can generate the required wattage. An array of ultra-bright LED's might simplify that.
I didn't know that, that's freakin awesome, a friggin mini nuclear power plant to power a lightbulb! I want one!what said:The older lighthouses in Russia, USA, and some other countries were powered by RTGs (Radioisotope thermoelectric generators) in remote locations. It works by drawing power from heat generated by the decay of radioactive isotopes with half lives of 20 years or more. They are all being commissioned I guess. I'm not sure if light houses are being used anymore.
famousken said:I didn't know that, that's freakin awesome, a friggin mini nuclear power plant to power a lightbulb! I want one!