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Technical and Economic Analysis of Sustainable Photovoltaic Systems for Street Lighting

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  • Valeriu-Sebastian Hudișteanu

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Ionuț Nica

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Marina Verdeș

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Iuliana Hudișteanu

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Nelu-Cristian Cherecheș

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Florin-Emilian Țurcanu

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Iulian Gherasim

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

  • Catalin-Daniel Galatanu

    (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Building Services, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania)

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of the feasibility and sustainability of using local photovoltaic systems, ON-GRID central photovoltaic systems, and HYBRID systems for street lighting. By generating electricity from renewable sources (photovoltaic panels), solar energy contributes to environmental protection by avoiding the use of fossil fuels and nuclear fission energy, while also aligning with the European Union’s Energy Strategy commitments for the medium term (until 2030) and long term (toward 2050). The implementation of local/central photovoltaic systems for street lighting largely depends on the existing power supply infrastructure, the solar potential of the site, and a clear understanding of potential electricity and cost savings. This study compares local and central photovoltaic systems for street lighting to analyze their technical performance and economic feasibility. The main sustainable objective that this work aims to achieve is Sustainable Development Goal 7. The optimal solution for photovoltaic systems in street lighting was determined through this analysis. The estimated cost for implementing an ON-GRID photovoltaic power plant with a capacity of 153.90 kWp is approximately EUR 773,977.22, with a discounted Payback Time of about 9.33 years. The implementation of this solution results in an annual reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 58.52 tons of CO 2 .

Suggested Citation

  • Valeriu-Sebastian Hudișteanu & Ionuț Nica & Marina Verdeș & Iuliana Hudișteanu & Nelu-Cristian Cherecheș & Florin-Emilian Țurcanu & Iulian Gherasim & Catalin-Daniel Galatanu, 2025. "Technical and Economic Analysis of Sustainable Photovoltaic Systems for Street Lighting," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-35, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:16:p:7179-:d:1720326
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    References listed on IDEAS

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