When it comes to protecting your livestock or securing your property, a reliable electric fence energiser is essential. With so many options on the market, choosing the right solar-powered unit can feel overwhelming, especially if you need something that balances performance, durability, and ease of use. To make your decision easier, we’ve compared three top solar electric fence energisers available in the UK: the Horizont Ranger AS1000SC, the Gallagher S120Li, and the Fire Drake 200.
In this guide, we break down each energiser’s usability, durability, performance, and design, helping you see at a glance which model best suits your needs, whether you’re running a small pasture, a mid-sized farm, or a larger perimeter fence. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the most reliable and efficient energiser for your setup.
Our winners of 2026
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
OUR WINNER: Gallagher S120Li Solar Energiser
|
| |
| The Gallagher S120Li brings advanced lithium battery technology and intelligent energy management to solar fencing. Compact yet powerful, it charges faster and lasts significantly longer than standard lead‑acid models, making it ideal for larger multi‑wire fences and demanding UK conditions. |
| |
Our rating by category
|
|
Usability: The Gallagher S120Li stands out for its quick charging and intuitive controls. The integrated “Night Mode” and “Wild Mode” help manage energy use while maintaining fence power for specific needs, and the magnetic on/off switch with battery level indicator makes operation very straightforward. Its compact size and carry handle also make installation and relocation simple.
|
|
Durability: With an IPX4 splashproof housing and high‑quality lithium battery technology, this energiser resists moisture and dirt while delivering long‑lasting operation. Gallagher also provides a lengthy 7‑year* guarantee after registration, underscoring confidence in build quality and longevity.
|
|
Performance: Featuring lithium battery tech that charges up to three times faster and lasts up to three times longer than comparable lead‑acid units, the S120Li delivers consistent power across up to 12 km** of multi‑wire fence. Smart energy monitoring optimises output even in low‑sunlight conditions, making it a strong choice for medium‑sized farms.
|
|
Design: The energiser’s splashproof design and robust solar module offer protection against the elements, while its ergonomic carrying handle and compact form factor make it easy to manoeuvre and position. The thoughtful layout of LEDs and controls supports simple, effective daily use.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
2. Horizont Ranger AS1000SC Solar Energiser
|
| |
| The Horizont Ranger AS1000SC is a robust, all‑in‑one solar electric fence energiser designed for off‑grid livestock fencing. With its integrated solar panel and 12 V battery, it delivers dependable power straight out of the box, making it a versatile choice for pastures, paddocks and remote areas where mains electricity isn’t an option. |
| |
Our rating by category
|
|
Usability: The Ranger AS1000SC is user‑friendly straight out of the box, with all necessary accessories included and no assembly required. Its external stainless steel on/off switch with LED status indicators allows quick checks of battery health without opening the case. It’s ideal for farms or paddocks where mains power isn’t available, and can be easily expanded with a second battery for longer runtime.
|
|
Durability: Built with a robust polycarbonate case and integrated drainage channels, this Energiser is designed to handle all‑weather conditions. Deep‑discharge protection and a power‑saving circuit help preserve battery life over time, making it suitable for long‑term outdoor use.
|
|
Performance: With a 1.3 J energiser and 1 J output, plus an integrated 15 W monocrystalline solar panel and decent battery capacity, it’s well‑suited for livestock like sheep, goats, cattle and horses. It can operate for up to 13 days without sunlight, giving reliable performance even in less sunny UK conditions.
|
|
Design: What a looker with its sturdy, rugged black case. The design focuses on portability and practicality, with twin carrying handles and a weatherproof enclosure. The inclusion of an LED indicator on the external switch enhances usability, and the integrated solar panel is efficient and protected by glass for longevity.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
3. Hotline Fire Drake 200 Solar Energiser
|
| |
|
The Fire Drake 200 is a high‑power solar energiser built for larger estates and extensive fencing. Its large folding solar panel array and strong output give reliable performance over long distances, making it well‑suited to substantial livestock fencing, perimeter protection, or off‑grid use without compromising on power.
|
| |
Our rating by category
|
|
Usability: The Fire Drake 200 energiser is built for larger scale applications, handling long fences up to around 18 km with its stronger output and larger solar panel array. Setup is straightforward with clear indicators for low battery and pulse, and a supplementary battery charger adds more flexibility in variable UK weather.
|
|
Durability: With a heavy‑duty integrated 24 W solar panel and internal 12 V battery, this unit is engineered for durable use across bigger farms and larger paddock systems. Fire Drake units are designed specifically for the UK climate, and the inclusion of a battery charger gives added resilience in periods of low sunlight.
|
|
Performance: This is the most powerful of the three, with 2.5 J stored energy and around 1.8 J output, ideal for larger livestock fencing or perimeter systems. The high‑efficiency solar charging and strong output make it suitable for demanding setups where reliability and extended reach are essential.
|
|
Design: The Fire Drake’s foldable high‑wattage solar panel design maximises energy capture and speeds up recharging. The sturdy construction, intuitive status indicators and included charger reflect a product focused on performance and reliability for more intensive farm use.
|
|
|
|
|
Conclusion
After comparing usability, durability, performance, and design, the Gallagher S120Li Lithium Solar Energiser takes the top spot. Its fast‑charging lithium battery, smart energy management, and compact, splashproof design make it the most reliable choice for UK farms.
Coming in second is the Horizont Ranger AS1000SC Solar Energiser, a versatile and robust unit that delivers solid all‑round performance, especially for paddocks and off‑grid areas.
In third place, the Fire Drake 200 Solar Energiser impresses with its high power and long reach, making it ideal for larger setups, though it’s slightly less user-friendly than the other two.
No matter which energiser you choose, all three are truly among the best of the best. Each one offers reliable solar power, robust construction, and dependable performance to keep your fences running smoothly throughout the year. While their performance levels are broadly similar, some may suit your farm better depending on brand preference, design, or the style of installation you prefer. Ultimately, any of these energisers will give you peace of mind and reliable fencing, it’s really a matter of which features, style, or brand feel right for you.
*Manufacturer’s warranty conditions apply.
** Two-wire, without vegetation.
This independent test was carried out based on performance data, physical testing, and our expertise in electric fencing equipment. For this test, we used only devices from our own range and did not include models from other manufacturers or brands. We received no financial or other incentives from the manufacturers for the ratings awarded.
Navigate to more insights and guides:
