Economic and Environmental Implications of Solar Energy Street Lighting in Urban Regions: A Case Study

Abstract

The current study focused on the economic and environmental impacts of using solar energy forstreet lighting instead of traditional lighting. As a case study, the required size of the solar energysystem was calculated for illuminating the main street in Gaza Strip (Salah Al-Din Street). Thestudy proposed replacing the existing 400W - 220V AC sodium lamps with 150W LEDstreetlights. The findings demonstrated the economic and environmental viability of the proposedproject. To implement this project, an investment of $4,357,170 is required, along with annualmaintenance costs of $297,000. Additionally, the batteries need to be replaced every 5 years. Thecost of electricity was estimated at approximately $0.233 per kWh, with a capital payback periodof about 12.409 years. The project would prevent approximately 1,372.05 tons of CO₂ emissionsfrom being released into the atmosphere.The study presented a comprehensive approach that canbe applied to both urban areas and remote regions not connected to the public electricity grid. Insuch cases, additional costs for lighting poles and construction must be considered.