Solar-powered lighting is revolutionizing infrastructure across the United States, helping cities and businesses reduce costs, improve public safety, and minimize maintenance. Still, myths persist—often preventing decision-makers from realizing the full value of modern solar lighting technology.
Here are the top misconceptions about solar lighting systems—and the real facts that debunk them.
Table of Contents
Myth #1: Solar Lights Don’t Work in Cloudy or Cold Climates
The Misconception:
Solar lights only work in sunny areas and fail during cloudy, rainy, or snowy conditions.
The Reality:
Today’s smart solar lighting solutions are built to perform in all weather. At Fonroche Lighting America, our energy management technology enables lights to store enough solar energy to provide reliable lighting even after several overcast days.
Proven Performance:
From the Southeast’s humidity to the Northeast’s snow, Fonroche SmartLights continue to deliver reliable performance in diverse climate zones—proving that solar lighting systems aren’t limited to sunny regions.
Takeaway:
Cloudy days and cold weather do not impact the performance of Fonroche’s solar lighting systems. Thanks to advanced SmartLight technology and oversized NiMH batteries, these systems are engineered to operate continuously—regardless of weather. Whether it’s the rainy Pacific Northwest or snow-covered streets in the Northeast, Fonroche delivers reliable light night after night.
Myth #2: Solar Lighting Is Unreliable and Can’t Provide Consistent Lighting
The Misconception:
Solar lights flicker or dim after sundown because of inconsistent energy availability.
The Reality:
Fonroche SmartLights provide bright, consistent lighting from dusk to dawn—without relying on the electrical grid. Each unit uses advanced energy management and Power 365 solar technology to store and deliver power year-round. Fonroche builds each system with durable parts and adapts it to the needs of each site. Transportation departments across the country trust this proven design for its strong performance and long-term reliability.
Proven Performance:
Trusted by municipalities, military bases, and commercial developers, Fonroche lighting systems meet security-grade performance standards and have been used in critical infrastructure applications throughout the United States.
Takeaway:
Unlike outdated solar lights that may flicker or fail after a few cloudy days, Fonroche SmartLights are built for consistency. They provide dependable dusk-to-dawn illumination using advanced energy storage and Power 365 technology, making them a reliable choice for military bases, commercial sites, and public streets—where safety and performance matter most.
Myth #3: Solar Lighting Is Too Expensive and Requires Ongoing Maintenance
The Misconception:
Solar lights cost too much to install and need frequent upkeep.
The Reality:
While upfront costs can be higher, Fonroche’s solar streetlights eliminate long-term expenses. With no trenching, no electricity bills, and no copper wiring, these lights reduce both installation and operating costs.
Side-By-Side Comparison:
| Factor | Traditional Grid Lighting | Fonroche Solar Lighting |
| Installation | High (due to trenching and wiring) | Low (no underground infrastructure) |
| Monthly Costs | Ongoing electricity bill | $0 (solar-powered) |
| Maintenance | Frequent copper wire repairs | 10+ years of battery life |
| Total Cost (10 Years) | High due to utility & labor | 40%-60% savings |
The Takeaway:
Investing in Fonroche solar lighting eliminates recurring costs—like trenching fees, utility bills, and frequent maintenance—making it the most cost-effective, long-term solution for municipalities and businesses. With a maintenance-free design and a 10+ year battery lifespan, cities can redirect savings into community improvements while benefiting from uninterrupted lighting.
Myth #4: Solar Lights Aren’t Bright Enough for Roadways or Security Zones
The Misconception:
Solar-powered lights aren’t powerful enough for parking lots, roadways, or security areas.
The Reality:
Fonroche SmartLights use high-powered LEDs and smart controls. They deliver bright, full-spectrum light that meets safety and security standards.
Proof in Action:
Fonroche solar lights power highways, industrial parks, and public spaces across the country. They provide reliable performance and peace of mind.
Takeaway:
Fonroche lights are engineered to exceed safety standards with high-powered LEDs and smart lighting technology. If these systems can reliably illuminate military bases, busy intersections, and large commercial sites, they are more than capable of serving urban streets, security zones, and public areas that demand visibility and protection.
Myth #5: Solar Lights Aren’t Bright Enough for Roadways or Security Zones
The Misconception:
Solar streetlights break down faster than traditional ones.
The Reality:
Fonroche designs its lights to last more than 20 years. They operate without maintenance and include NiMH batteries that work for 10 years or longer.
The Takeaway:
Solar lighting lasts longer than many traditional systems. It doesn’t rely on the grid and has fewer points of failure, which means fewer service disruptions.
Case Study: Los Angeles Leads the Way with Fonroche Smart Solar Lighting
To address widespread copper theft and vandalism, Los Angeles launched a pilot solar streetlight program in Van Nuys. By installing Fonroche SmartLights, the city eliminated underground wiring—making theft impossible. This proactive move not only saved millions in replacement costs but also improved service response time and lighting coverage in high-need areas.
Solution:
The city installed 104 solar lighting systems that work without the grid. This prevents copper wire theft and reduces energy costs automatically.
Results:
- Zero energy or maintenance costs
- Lights remained secure and operational
- Now scaling to 900+ more locations
Takeaway:
Los Angeles proves that solar street lighting is the future of public infrastructure. The city is expanding solar lighting to over 900 locations, targeting high-theft zones and underserved neighborhoods. Fonroche’s technology ensures lasting cost savings, stronger grid independence, and safer, more resilient communities.
The Facts Speak for Themselves
Solar lighting systems:
- Perform in all weather
- Reduce your electricity bill and energy usage
- Lower overall costs and prevent copper wire theft
- Support clean energy and long-term reliability
- Offer smarter lighting technology with less maintenance
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Cities across the United States are already embracing Fonroche’s zero-maintenance, high-performance lighting. Here are the reasons:
✅ Improve safety
✅ Cut long-term costs
✅ Eliminate grid dependency
✅ Stop theft and outages
Join forward-thinking cities like Los Angeles in adopting zero-maintenance, cost-saving, and vandal-proof solar lighting. Fonroche SmartLights help reduce energy costs, enhance public safety, and eliminate the risks associated with traditional grid-tied lighting. Contact Fonroche Lighting America today to future-proof your infrastructure with solar lighting solutions built to last.