Compare the total cost of solar-powered lighting vs grid-connected lighting. Solar often wins when trenching costs are included – this calculator shows the real numbers.
Application type
Parking lot
$1,200-3,000/pole
40-150W equivalent, dusk-to-dawn
Pathway / garden
$200-600/fixture
5-20W equivalent, accent lighting
Street / roadway
$1,500-4,000/pole
60-200W equivalent, all-night
Security / perimeter
$400-1,200/fixture
20-60W equivalent, motion sensor
Solar system
Hardware + installation (no trenching)
The LED output watts the solar unit provides
Grid-connected alternative
Fixture + pole + electrical (no trenching)
Typical range: $15-50/ft
One-way from nearest panel/service
Operating hours
Avg dusk-to-dawn hours per night
Please check your inputs.
Solar payback period
0 years
$0
Solar upfront cost
$0
Grid upfront cost
$0
Annual electricity saved
$0
20-year total advantage
Solar vs grid-connected – cost comparison
Cost itemSolarGrid
Total solar system cost
Total grid installation cost
Upfront cost difference
Annual electricity cost (grid)
Annual kWh consumed
Battery replacement cycle
20-year total cost – solar
20-year total cost – grid
Cumulative cost advantage of solar over grid
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