Solar-powered LED street lights provide an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way to illuminate outdoor areas. A 100 watt solar street light is a common option that can generate over 10,000 lumens to brightly light pathways, parking lots, parks, rural roads, and other locations.
These all-in-one integrated systems typically consist of a 100-120 watt solar panel, lithium-ion or lead acid battery pack, and a cluster of high-efficiency LEDs. The solar panel charges the batteries during the day, which then power the LEDs at night. Many models also have sensors and controls like timers, motion detectors, and light sensors to optimize the lighting schedule.
Key benefits of 100 watt solar street lights include:
- Energy and cost savings – No wiring or electricity bills needed
- Eco-friendly – Solar-powered and LED efficiency
- Easy installation – Pole or wall mounted
- Low maintenance – Solar panel and LEDs last for years
- Reliable performance – Automated control sensors
When shopping for a 100 watt solar street light, there are several factors to consider regarding performance, durability, sensors/controls, products, installation, costs and incentives.
What to Consider When Buying a 100 Watt Solar Street Light
Light Output
The light output of a solar street light, measured in lumens, determines how large of an area it can effectively illuminate. A 100 watt light can emit 8,000 to over 10,000 lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light and larger coverage area. However, more LED wattage also requires bigger solar panels and batteries.
Solar Panel Size
100-120 watt solar panels are typical for powering a 100 watt street light. Larger solar panels can charge the batteries faster and withstand cloudy weather for longer periods. They also extend the hours of illumination at night. Monocrystalline silicon panels tend to be amongst the most efficient.
Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, long-lasting, and perform better than lead-acid in cold weather. However, lead-acid options tend to be less expensive. Batteries may need replacement every 2-3 years.
Sensors and Controls
Many solar street lights have built-in motion sensors, light sensors, timers and manual controls. These features help to automatically optimize the lighting schedule for energy savings and safety.
Durability and Water Resistance
Look for solar street lights with IP65 waterproof rating or higher. The external housing should resist rain, snow, humidity, dirt, impacts and vandalism. Stainless steel mounting hardware also improves durability.
Top 100 Watt Solar Street Light Products
Here are some of the top-rated and best-selling 100 watt solar street lights to consider:
OKPRO 100W 8000LM Solar Street Light
- 8,000 lumens from 100 watt CREE LEDs
- 120 watt solar panel and lithium battery
- Motion sensor and remote controls
- IP65 rating and 5 year warranty
Galental 100W 10,000LM Solar Street Light
- 10,000 lumens output
- Integrated design with pole/fixture
- 120 degree motion detection
- Withstands winds up to 60 mph
SolPol 100W German Engineered Solar Street Lamp
- Engineers in Germany
- 10,500 lumens illumination
- 25 year lifepan solar panels
- Adjustable and easy installation
Be sure to compare the light output, solar panel size, batteries, durability features and warranties when choosing the best 100 watt solar street light.
Installation and Maintenance of Solar Street Lights
Installing a solar street light is relatively straightforward. Most models come with mounting hardware to attach to a pole, wall or light post. Pole mounting is most common, using 1.67-2.36 inch diameter poles. The solar panel should face true south if in the northern hemisphere.
For a 100 watt light, the recommended mounting height is 8-12 meters (26-39 ft) high, angled slightly downwards. This height ensures an effective coverage area and detection zone for integrated motion sensors.
Over time, the solar panel may require occasional cleaning and batteries typically need replacement every 2-3 years. The LED light sources can last for 5 years or longer without needing changes. Overall solar street lights are very low maintenance compared to grid-powered options.
Costs, Incentives and Payback Period
Upfront costs for solar street lights are higher compared to traditional options – typically $100-$300 per light. However, the savings from zero electrical bills provide a return on investment over time.
- 100W Solar Street Light Cost – $100-$300
- Lifespan – 5-10 years of useful life
- Payback Period – 2-5 years
Many utilities and state/federal governments also offer rebates, tax credits and incentives to offset the upfront cost of installing solar-powered lights. These can reduce the payback period by 1-2 years in some cases.
Over the full lifespan, a solar street light can save $100s or $1,000s in avoided electricity costs compared to conventional street lights. The solar panels and LED lights also last for years without needing replacement, keeping maintenance costs extremely low.
Conclusion
For parking lots, pathways, parks, gardens and off-grid locations needing outdoor illumination, 100 watt solar LED street lights provide an energy-efficient and smart choice. Advancements in solar panels, LEDs, batteries and control sensors make these self-contained lights a reliable, eco-friendly solution with fast return on investment.
Compared to traditional grid-tied lights, 100W solar street lights generate substantial electricity bill savings and require little maintenance while providing years of off-grid operation. As the technology continues to evolve, solar-powered LED lighting is expected to displace outdated lighting alternatives across private and public spaces worldwide.