The Challenge
A mid-sized U.S. city wanted to renovate a large public park to make it more family-friendly, safe, and accessible at night. But the site had no electrical infrastructure, and trenching cables across the park would cost over $250,000.
“Can we light the park without connecting to the grid?”
That question led them to explore solar-powered lighting for parks – and ultimately to SolarPath.
Project Goals
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Illuminate walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas
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Avoid trenching or underground wiring
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Minimize long-term maintenance and operating costs
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Use sustainable, grant-eligible technology
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Complete the installation before the spring season
The Solution: Off-Grid Solar Lighting by SolarPath
After reviewing several options, the city selected SolarPath to deliver a custom-designed lighting system with:
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30 off-grid solar lighting poles
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Each equipped with high-efficiency LED fixtures
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Pole-mounted solar panels and battery storage
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Smart controllers with motion sensors and dimming schedules
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Durable materials rated for weather and vandal resistance
All lights were installed without trenching, and the system was fully operational in under 3 weeks.
Results
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$0 monthly energy bills
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75% savings compared to wired lighting installation
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No disruptions to park grounds or landscaping
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Park lighting compliant with safety and visibility standards
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Community feedback: overwhelmingly positive
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No technical issues reported in the first 18 months
Lessons Learned
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Solar lighting is a practical option even for large spaces
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Off-grid systems offer faster installation and lower lifetime cost
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Smart planning and the right technology can eliminate the need for traditional infrastructure
What the City Said
“We didn’t just save money, we created a safer, more beautiful park without digging up the entire space. SolarPath’s team made it easy to move fast and meet our goals.”
Want Similar Results for Your City?
We’ll create a free lighting simulation for your park, trail, or public space based on your location, goals, and budget.
👉 Request a Custom Lighting Plan
📞 Talk to a SolarPath Municipal Lighting Expert
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can solar lighting really cover an entire park?
Yes – with proper design and spacing, solar systems can illuminate large outdoor areas reliably.
Q2: What if our city has a limited budget?
SolarPath helps identify phased approaches and funding opportunities. Many cities use grants or infrastructure budgets.
Q3: How long does it take to install a solar lighting system?
Most projects are installed within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on site conditions.
Q4: Is solar lighting bright and safe enough for public use?
Yes – we use high-lumen LED fixtures designed to meet municipal safety standards.ז