Urban Solar lighting systems have received across the board improvements that take advantage of the latest advances in solar, battery, LED, and cloud-based communications technologies.

Together, these upgrades allow latest-generation Urban Solar lighting systems to offer double the lighting performance at little to no additional cost to the customer.

In addition, these improvements enhance reliability in challenging solar locations, which include harsh environments with extreme hot or cold temperatures and urban environments where shading is often an issue.

Technology upgrades include:

50% more power with monocrystalline solar panels – All Urban Solar lighting systems now incorporate monocrystalline, rather than polycrystalline, solar panels. Thanks to the resultant increase in panel efficiency, Urban Solar lighting systems now deliver up to 50% more power in the same footprint when compared with last-generation systems.

30% greater output with latest-generation LED fixtures – As LED technology continues to improve, Urban Solar has made luminaire upgrades to offer greater light output for their clients. The newest generation of LED fixtures use less power per unit of light output (greater efficacy, measured in lumens/Watt). Latest-generation fixtures offer 30%+ greater efficacy compared to last-generation fixtures.

Less frequent battery replacements with LiFePO4 – Some Urban Solar lighting systems, including the new PV Stop+, now include lithium-ion (LiFePO4) batteries as standard. Compared with sealed lead acid batteries, the LiFEPO4 chemistry is more resistant to high heat and greater depth of discharge. This equates to a longer life before a battery replacement is required.

Sealed lead acid batteries are still the most cost-effective batteries available, and they offer superior performance in sub-freezing temperatures. Consult with your Urban Solar expert about the best choice of battery for your project.

Reduced operational costs with wireless monitoring and control – All Urban Solar systems now include the option for cloud-based monitoring and control via cellular modem. Transit agencies realize reduced operational costs as maintenance alerts eliminate the need for in-person performance verification. Neighborhood safety is enhanced and customers can rest easy knowing that their lights are on.