Across the country, cities are facing rising costs to repair and maintain outdated lighting systems. These systems often use copper wiring, buried connections, and outdated lighting technologies, which are incompatible with new solar systems. As a result, cities experience frequent service disruptions, rising labor costs, and expensive repairs—making these systems both financially and operationally unsustainable.
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Why Cities Postpone Streetlight Upgrades
Budget restrictions and the complexity of infrastructure upgrades lead many cities to postpone essential streetlight replacements. Delaying upgrades can increase safety risks, drive up energy bills, and create long-term maintenance challenges.
Why Solar Streetlights Are a Smarter, More Affordable Choice
No Trenching, No Wiring, No Utility Bills
Fonroche solar powered street lights operate fully off-grid, requiring no trenching or underground wiring or external lighting controls. This significantly cuts upfront infrastructure costs. Cities that switch to clean, solar-based electricity also eliminate costly maintenance tied to outdated power infrastructure.
Quick Installation and Long-Term Savings
Cities can deploy Fonroche SmartLights quickly and with minimal disruption. This streamlined process reduces labor and installation time while delivering long-term energy savings. Each system uses advanced solar panels to operate independently and lower overall energy costs. Once installed, the off-grid design helps cities avoid rising utility prices and reduces ongoing maintenance expenses.
Proven Cost Savings for Cities
Depending on the project size, cities can save $3,000 to $5,000 per light—compared to traditional grid-tied systems. These savings add quickly, helping cities reduce expenses and reallocate budgets to other essential services. By using solar panels, cities also lower overall energy costs and generate long-term energy savings.
Case Study Spotlight: Clark County, Nevada
Clark County faced ongoing challenges with copper wire theft, rising repair costs, and outdated wiring. In response, the county launched a solar streetlight pilot program using Fonroche SmartLights. The pilot proved highly successful—cutting theft-related disruptions and lowering overall maintenance costs. Following the pilot, Clark County expanded the program to more than 900 additional locations.
The Fonroche SmartLight Advantage
Designed for All Weather and Long-Term Use
Fonroche’s systems are engineered to deliver 365-day reliability—even in harsh climates. Our technology works in extreme heat and cold while resisting vandalism, copper theft, and storm damage.
Engineered to Meet City Needs
Fonroche systems are purpose-built for cities, tribal nations, and developers. Fonroche’s outdoor lighting solutions use shielded optics and wireless controls. With smart dimming zones, they improve safety, prevent light pollution, and lower excess energy use.
Benefits at a Glance
Cities exploring smarter lighting investments need solutions that deliver immediate and lasting value. Fonroche SmartLights go beyond energy savings by delivering a full lighting upgrade—without the high costs, delays, or disruption tied to traditional systems. Here’s what sets them apart:
✔ Cuts costs with no trenching or energy bills
✔ Eliminates outages tied to grid failure
✔ Supports long-term environmental goals and climate goals
✔ Reduces maintenance and theft
✔ No maintenance infrastructure for decades
How to Start a Smart Streetlight Upgrade Plan
Upgrading streetlights can be overwhelming. Here’s how to get started:
1. Audit your current lighting infrastructure to identify high-cost or high-risk zones such as parking lots.
2. Prioritize zones that most efficiently advance citywide lighting goals.
3. Partner with Fonroche Lighting to create a tailored solar lighting plan that meets your city’s specific needs.
Explore our Smart Streetlight Planning Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: In what ways does solar street lighting help reduce municipal costs?
A: Solar lighting avoids trenching, eliminates utility bills, and can lower lighting costs by 30–60%.
Q: Will it work in cold climates or cloudy conditions?
A: Yes. Fonroche SmartLights work in all weather, storing power for several nights to ensure reliable lighting.
Read: How Solar Works in Cold and Cloudy Climates
Q: What level of security do solar lighting systems provide?
A: Fonroche lights have sealed enclosures and no exposed wiring, preventing copper theft and reducing long-term repair issues.
Start Building a Smart, Cost-Saving Lighting Plan
Fonroche Lighting America is ready to help your city modernize its streetlights without exceeding your budget. Our grid-free systems are fast to deploy, require no trenching, and cut costs.
Contact us to start building a cost-effective, secure solar lighting strategy.