[tbittner]

That's a 50/50 type of thing, Barb. You'll either need to run several extension cords, or run a new circuit, to the basement so you can control the lights with the controller that is in the basement. Or you need to run the wires for the float switch, extension cord(s), etc to monitor and control the devices in the basement. I'd opt for installing it in the basement because, for instance, a PH probe would most likely be sitting in the sump so it's not hanging in the tank. One of the attractive things about a sump is you can move things out of the tank to keep it clean and nice looking, like a PH probe, heater(s), etc. There is a finite length the cable can be for the PH probe.

When you run the pipes to/from the basement sump, duct tape wire or extension cords to the pipe and run that at the same time. The lights will plug into those and get power from a basement socket.