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Local authorities are under increasing pressure to adopt greener and more efficient methods of powering their cities. Among the various options available, renewable energy solutions for streetlighting have gained significant attention.
In this article, our Technical Director, Neil Purdue, explores two leading contenders: solar-powered and hybrid solar-wind lighting systems. We’re often asked about the concept of wind-powered or solar-wind hybrid street lighting, as, on the surface, they appear attractive, but they usually fall short of expectations in terms of cost and efficiency when compared to traditional solar-powered solutions; read on to find out why.
Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that offers numerous benefits over traditional fossil fuels. Unlike finite resources such as coal and oil, solar energy is abundant and can be harnessed without depleting the Earth’s natural resources. This makes solar-powered street lighting a sustainable choice for local authorities aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener environment.
One of the most significant advantages of solar-powered streetlights is their cost-effectiveness. After the initial installation, solar lights generate electricity for free, eliminating the need for ongoing energy costs. This makes them an attractive option for municipalities looking to reduce operating expenses and improve their financial bottom line. Additionally, solar panels have a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance, further enhancing their economic appeal.
Solar-powered streetlights produce zero greenhouse gas emissions, making them an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional grid-powered lights. By harnessing the sun’s power, these systems help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the effects of climate change. Solar energy is also silent and non-intrusive, ensuring communities remain undisturbed by noise pollution.
Solar-powered streetlights operate off-grid, offering a reliable and consistent light source for public spaces. This means they are not affected by power outages or fluctuations in energy prices, providing a dependable solution for local authorities. This independence is particularly beneficial in remote or off-grid areas where traditional power infrastructure may be lacking or costly to implement, ensuring a secure and uninterrupted lighting system.
Hybrid solar-wind lighting systems combine solar panels with wind turbines to generate electricity. The primary benefit of this approach is the potential for increased energy generation. Wind turbines can produce electricity around the clock, provided there is sufficient wind, complementing solar panels, which generate power during daylight hours. This dual-source system can offer a more consistent energy supply, particularly in regions with variable weather conditions.
In remote areas without existing power infrastructure, a blend of solar and wind energy, coupled with battery storage, can be more cost-effective than laying new power cables. Hybrid systems can ensure a steady energy supply throughout the year, regardless of seasonal changes in sunlight and wind availability. This makes them a viable option for isolated locations where traditional grid connection is not feasible.
Attaching a wind turbine to an existing column or mast requires a thorough structural assessment. Turbine-induced vibrations can cause fatigue in steel and aluminium structures, necessitating careful analysis to prevent resonant vibration issues and ensure the structural integrity of the installation. This adds complexity and cost to the implementation process.
Wind turbines can generate noise, which may be an issue in populated areas. Additionally, the mechanical components of wind turbines, such as bearings, are prone to wear and tear, leading to higher maintenance requirements and potential failures. Local authorities must consider these factors when evaluating hybrid systems’ long-term reliability and cost.
Hybrid solar-wind systems are generally more expensive to install and maintain than standalone solar systems. The added cost of the wind turbine, combined with the need for more robust battery storage, can make these systems less economically viable. Moreover, the efficiency of hybrid systems is often limited by the variability of wind conditions and the added weight and windage on the columns.
While the concept of solar and wind-powered street lighting is appealing, the reality often falls short of expectations in terms of both economic and environmental benefits. Stand-alone solar-powered streetlights, on the other hand, offer a proven, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution. They provide energy independence, require minimal maintenance, and contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions. We believe solar power remains the optimum choice for local authorities looking to invest in sustainable and reliable street lighting.
Our story
The idea for Acrospire was formed in 2012 when founder Tim envisioned a different kind of lighting manufacturer: one that would not only deliver outstanding customer experiences but also prioritise fair treatment for its employees.
We’ve come a long way
Motivated by the belief the industry wanted and needed better, Tim shared his plan to establish his own venture with Hatty, who simply couldn't let him do it alone.
The rest, as they say, is history.
Protecting local jobs and ensuring the best quality possible.
Working from a rented office by day and assembling lanterns in a garage at night, Tim and Hatty set to work.
11 Years later
Acrospire now inhabits a 14000² ft manufacturing facility in Basingstoke, Hampshire. We’re a proud partner of the Made in Britain scheme, ISO9001 certified and a member of all relevant lighting industry trade bodies.
Along with great relationships with our customers and a great team! We've attracted some of the most experienced members of the lighting industry, all by following one golden rule.
A simple ethos
That runs through all that we do. Customers who have made the switch to Acrospire have found working with us to be a breath of fresh air.
If you’re a professional in the lighting industry, you’re probably familiar with warranties that range from 3 to 10 years, with extensions available on special request or at additional cost. At Acrospire, where we’re proud to be different, we offer a market-leading simple 12-year warranty, as standard.
We focus on our customers not our competition. We manufacture our products in the UK: with the exception of our solar products, our supply chain is within a 60-mile radius of our factory in Basingstoke: to maintain greater control over quality. We al
Speed of response is crucial when it comes to resolving warranty issues. If we’ve made a mistake, we own it, get to the root cause, and fix it as quickly as possible. We believe in timely communication with our customers and making the resolution pro
Test and Test Again
We believe in independent testing and certification. Our new product development is in line with ISO 9001. Many of our products hold ENEC Certification. To meet the requirements of ENEC we also send random product samples for third party safety testi
Our product design is another key factor in our ability to offer a 12-year warranty. We value engineer rather than cost cut, never compromising on quality. We stick to our processes and engage with our supply chain to ensure that every product meets