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