Starlink, a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX, has become a viable option for Zimbabweans seeking reliable high-speed internet, especially in remote or underserved areas. With Starlink recently obtaining its licence to operate in Zimbabwe, you might be eager to explore how you can integrate it into your home or business.
A key question many have is how much power does Starlink consume, and can it be efficiently powered using solar energy?
How Much Power Does Starlink Use?
Starlink’s power consumption can be a significant factor to consider, if you plan to use it with any type of solar or backup generator system. While the exact consumption varies depending on the model, Starlink generally uses more power than traditional internet modems like TP-Link, ZOL, and Huawei.
TP-Link routers consume between 6 to 12 watts, ZOL modems use between 15 to 20 watts while Huawei routers consume around 15 to 30 watts. Starlink is more power-intensive drawing anywhere from 45 to 100 watts.
The power consumption fluctuates depending on the model, environmental factors (heat or cold), usage load, and whether the device is in standby or active mode. If you’re looking to run Starlink on solar or battery power, it’s important to factor in their peak consumption rates for planning purposes.
One user with a Standard Kit (Gen 3) reports consistent consumption of 60 watts.
| MODEL | WHO IS IT FOR | STANDBY CONSUMPTION (WATTS) | ACTIVE CONSUMPTION (WATTS) | PEAK CONSUMPTION (WATTS) | TOTAL ACTIVE CONSUMPTION FOR 16 HOURS (WATTS) |
| Starlink Mini | Residential or less intensive use | 5-10 | 35-50 | 65 | 560-800 |
| Starlink Standard | Residential and general users | 10-20 | 45-75 | 100 | 720-1200 |
| Starlink High-Performance | Business and enterprise use | 15-30 | 110-150 | 180 | 1760-2400 |
Can Starlink Run on Solar Energy?
Given our frequent power outages, you might want to know if Starlink can be powered with solar energy. In short, yes, but how feasible is it?
Example 1: A 3kW System
Let’s consider a common example: a 3kW system. If you use Starlink Standard, the total active consumption for 16 hours is between 720-1200 watts. However, to be on the safe side you want to calculate using the total peak consumption which works out to 1600 watts (16 hours X 100 watts).
Now, let’s calculate the total consumption if you combine Starlink with other basic appliances:
Starlink Standard: 1600 watts
Laptop (10 hours/day): 500 watts
TV (4 hours/day): 800 watts
Fridge (continuous): 1,200 watts
Lighting (10 bulbs at 10W for 5 hours): 500 watts
Total daily consumption: 4,600 watts
If you’re planning to run Starlink along with other appliances, a **3kW solar system** would be a good starting point.
- 6 solar panels, each producing 300W would produce 9,500 watts assuming 5 hours of peak sunshine.
- A 24V 100Ah battery would store approximately 2.4kWh, which can power your Starlink and basic appliances for several hours.
- A 3kW inverter would be able to handle peak power loads from multiple devices running simultaneously.
This system would allow you to comfortably use Starlink along with your essential home or office appliances, ensuring uninterrupted internet service, even during extended power outages.
Example 2: Inverter and Battery Backup System
If you have a small backup system here’s what your consumption might look like.
A 12V 100Ah lithium battery has 1200 watts. Inverters are between 85-90% efficient so this gives you 1020 watts. Lithium batteries should only be used up to 80% of their capacity which leaves you with 816 watts. In this case you would be able to power a Starlink Standard kit for at least 8 hours.
Starlink is an excellent solution if you’re looking for reliable internet, especially in off-grid or power-deficient areas. However, its relatively high energy consumption requires careful consideration when integrating it with solar systems.
How To Minimise Starlink Energy Consumption
Optimise Installation
Ensure the Starlink dish is positioned optimally to avoid interference. A poor signal will make the dish work harder to maintain the connection, consuming more power.
Reduce Devices Connected to Starlink
Limit the number of devices connected to Starlink’s Wi-Fi network. The more devices connected, the more power the router may use to manage and distribute the connection. Stick to critical devices especially during extended power outages.
Optimise Wi-Fi Settings
Adjust the Wi-Fi range and transmission power. Starlink’s router might be set to broadcast at a higher power than necessary. Reduce the range to cover only your intended area, which can save power.
You should also turn off the snow-melt feature. Starlink dishes come with a built-in heater that automatically activates to melt snow or ice, ensuring the dish remains free of obstructions. The heating function significantly increases power usage when activated and of course we don’t need it in Zimbabwe.
The snow-melt feature can be disabled through the Starlink app.
Pairing solar with Starlink just about guarantees uninterrupted connectivity, for offgrid or load-shedding-prone areas. If you’re unsure about sizing your solar system for Starlink, reach out to us on our Facebook page or WhatsApp and we’ll be happy to assess your system and give you a recommendation.
Starlink FAQs
Can Starlink work without electricity?
No, Starlink does not work without electricity. The dish, router, and all associated equipment require a continuous power supply. However, there are alternative ways to power Starlink during power outages or in off-grid locations.
You can use a battery system (e.g., a power bank or a solar-charged battery) to keep Starlink running for a limited time. With an appropriate solar power setup, including solar panels and batteries, you can run Starlink off-grid.
Can I run Starlink off an inverter?
Yes, you can run Starlink off an inverter as long as the inverter is appropriately sized to handle the power requirements of the Starlink dish and router.
Starlink systems generally consume between 45 to 150 watts depending on the model and usage (e.g., Mini, Standard, or High-Performance). Ensure your inverter has a continuous output rating that exceeds Starlink’s peak consumption, which could reach up to 180 watts for high-performance models.
A 300-watt inverter or higher should typically handle Starlink’s power needs comfortably, leaving room for any power surges.