11 Tips To Select & Buy The Best Solar Street Lights

Solar Street Lights: At the Forefront of the Green Energy Revolution

Wind, water, and sunlight are the primary components of Green Energy, with solar energy emerging as a leading contender in the effort to reduce energy consumption and environmental harm.

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The worldwide transition towards solar energy is heavily influenced by governmental policies and the widespread adoption of solar lighting solutions, particularly solar street lights. The rationale behind choosing solar street lights is clear: the global community is increasingly prioritizing sustainable energy sources to lower greenhouse gas emissions. This emphasizes the need for solar street lights, driving significant market growth. It is projected that the solar street lighting industry could reach $14 billion, with an expected post-COVID compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.7%.

Why are solar street lights popular?

In countries like India, solar street lights have become ubiquitous, illuminating highways and rural roads alike. These lights activate at dusk, providing clean and sustainable illumination.

Standalone solar street lights are gaining popularity for several compelling reasons:

• Cost-effective
• Low-maintenance
• Utilizes renewable energy
• Goes beyond electricity grid limitations
• Cable-free installation

How do they work?

Solar street lights operate independently of the power grid, relying on batteries or photovoltaic cells for energy storage. This characteristic makes them an ideal choice for powering roads in remote areas lacking grid connectivity. These systems effectively convert stored solar energy into electricity when required. For optimal functionality, solar street lights should receive direct sunlight for at least eight hours, ensuring they are well-charged for nighttime use.

Investing in solar street lights is a prudent decision, as these solutions are gaining ground quickly. The increasing demand for solar lighting solutions fuels market expansion, yet the vast selection can be overwhelming for first-time buyers. Without proper knowledge, one risks acquiring low-quality solar lamps made from inferior materials.

However, our guide offers essential insights for anyone looking to invest in solar street lights. Here's what you need to know.

11 Factors to Consider Before Buying Solar Street Lights

1. The light source

When inquiring about solar street light options, you may encounter various choices such as:

• Energy-saving lamps
• LED lamps
• Induction lamps
• Sodium lamps

Among these, LED lights are the top choice as they closely mimic the sun's spectrum. Current smart solar-powered LED lights boast higher lumens while consuming less energy, making them an excellent selection for solar integration.

2. The type of battery

Solar lights typically use batteries of two main types:

• Lithium batteries
• Lead-acid batteries

Lithium batteries are superior, offering:

• Longer lifespan
• Enhanced temperature resistance (up to 45 degrees Celsius)
• Improved charge and discharge cycles (up to three times better than lead batteries)
• Greater capacity for effective lighting

It’s essential that battery capacity is aligned with lighting efficiency; otherwise, performance will suffer in adverse weather conditions.

3. The temperature and latitude

For locations above a latitude of 15 degrees, consider solar street lights with adjustable solar panels. The solar panels of lamps installed on both sides of the road must be oriented towards the sun for optimal performance.

4. The heat dissipation performance

Effective heat dissipation is vital for maintaining LED lamp quality. Insufficient heat management can drastically reduce the lifespan of the semiconductor components used in street lamps. Opting for LED fixtures with anti-UV and fireproof properties ensures both adequate cooling and durability.

5. The illumination levels

Look for specifications regarding the footcandles, which influence ground brightness. Ideally, the bright/dark ratio should be 4:1, with a minimum of 3:1 being acceptable. The color temperature should also be assessed, measured in Kelvin.

6. The temperature of the black lamp housing

Choose light colors carefully; black lamps absorb heat, potentially causing temperatures to rise to 90 degrees Celsius, harming battery and LED functionality. A silver casing is preferable for optimal thermal management.

7. The controller

Charging and discharging controllers manage the interaction between solar panels, batteries, and load systems. Look for controllers equipped with efficient heat dissipation technology and temperature compensation features, facilitating protection against overcharging and undercharging. Opt for smart controllers with real-time monitoring capabilities for enhanced performance.

8. The sensors

Different sensor types include:

• Microwave induction (detects movement)
• Infrared induction (senses temperature-bearing entities)

PIR sensors are commonly used in solar street lights for energy conservation, detecting infrared light to identify movement.

9. The solar controller

Choosing a solar controller that offers effective heat dissipation, temperature regulation, overcharging, and undercharging prevention is crucial for a well-functioning lighting system.

10. The solar panel

The solar panel forms the backbone of the solar lighting system. For quality assurance, consider the following:

• Even distribution of silica gel on the back, backplane, and frame.
• Regularity in string welding to prevent leaks.
• Quality pressure on the panel's back with no irregularities.
• Clean tempered glass surface without foreign materials.
• Integrity of battery cells via complete cutting procedures.

11. Service and warranty

Solar street lamps represent a significant investment, so ensure that manufacturers provide extended warranties of 20 to 25 years, along with reliable after-sales service.

Choosing Between Various Types of Solar Street Lights

• When purchasing solar street lights, familiarize yourself with the various models available.
• Solar pole lights

This model positions solar panels on poles, which can limit sunlight absorption and efficiency. When positioned directly above, absorption potential may drop considerably.

• Solar and wind energy hybrid street lights

This model can introduce complications due to differing conversion mechanisms, potentially affecting battery longevity. Seek reliable solar solutions for lasting performance.

Get the Nantech expertise and guidance on solar street lights.

Nantech Power Systems Pvt Ltd is a reputed supplier of solar street lights in Chennai. With extensive experience in both off-grid and on-grid solar energy solutions, we are equipped to power your area effectively. Reach out today to empower your community.