Solar lighting in Agen: An ambitious project for a sustainable future

Since 2020, the Agen urban area has been engaged in an ambitious project to modernize its public lighting systems. This project, based on energy transition and sustainable development, aims to replace old, energy-hungry infrastructures with innovative, environmentally-friendly solutions. Supported by Fonroche Lighting, the world leader in solar street lighting, the plan calls for the deployment of 6,000 solar streetlights by 2026, reinforcing the city's position as a pioneer in sustainable lighting. The project is part of a wider drive to ensure an environmentally-friendly future, while enhancing the quality of life of local residents.

Project background and motivations

In 2016, the Agen conurbation had already initiated an ambitious plan to reduce energy consumption at 20,000 lighting points across its territory. This “Lighting Plan” included test areas where different technologies were evaluated: LED, presence detection, automatic switching on and off. The encouraging results of these experiments laid the foundations for a large-scale, long-term project. These initiatives marked a decisive turning point in Agen's approach to public lighting.

Faced with rising energy costs and growing demands for ecological transition, Agen's agglomeration council voted a budget of 15 million euros in 2021 to address the most critical points of the lighting stock. Solar lighting, deemed particularly well-suited to the needs of the commune, was then integrated into the program, with a first tranche of 600 solar-powered streetlights installed from 2022. This choice not only reduces energy bills, but also meets growing expectations in terms of sustainable development.

Jean-Marc Gilly, vice-chairman of the agglomeration council, points out: “Just by replacing our old lights with LEDs, we've saved 50% on our bill. These savings encourage us to continue investing in innovative solutions such as solar power. These initiatives confirm our commitment to responsible and efficient energy management.”

Project milestones

The project is based on the PEEEPS (Plan d'économie d'énergie en éclairage public et signalisation lumineuse tricolore), signed in 2022 by :

• Jean Dionis du Séjour, President of the Agen conurbation,
• Edward Jossa, President of UGAP,
• Laurent Lubrano, Managing Director of Fonroche Lighting.

Here are the project's main stages and investments:

By the end of 2026, 10% of the city's streetlights will be solar-powered, reducing energy consumption by 60% and saving 5 million kWh per year. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the project and its positive impact on resource management. Investing in these solutions also considerably reduces maintenance costs, while guaranteeing continuous, reliable lighting.able.

Innovative, eco-friendly solutions

Fonroche Lighting, a French company and world leader in solar lighting, designs reliable, self-sufficient solutions tailored to the needs of local authorities. Equipped with the latest-generation photovoltaic panels and long-life batteries, these street lamps guarantee night-time lighting without consuming mains electricity.

The main advantages of these systems :

• Significant financial savings: up to 60% reduction in public lighting bills.
• Reduced environmental impact: reduced light pollution and carbon footprint, contributing to a healthier night-time environment.
• Simplified maintenance: robust, self-contained systems reduce maintenance costs and extend equipment life.
• Energy autonomy: each streetlight is independent of the electrical grid, ensuring continuous operation even in the event of a power cut. This autonomy is a major asset for rural areas and isolated sites.

These solutions also help to protect biodiversity through less intrusive lighting that respects the natural cycles of nocturnal species. At the same time, they are part of a global approach to reducing light pollution, promoting a better balance between human needs and environmental imperatives.

A model for communities

The Agen project is a concrete example of a successful energy transition. By investing in innovative, sustainable technologies, the agglomeration has not only reduced its energy consumption, but also improved its residents' quality of life. This approach is part of our determination to set an example for other local authorities in France and Europe. The results achieved in Agen bear witness to a model that can be reproduced on a much larger scale.

Laurent Lubrano, Managing Director of Fonroche Lighting, explains: “These solutions illustrate our mission to develop sustainable public lighting for the communities of tomorrow. This project demonstrates that it is possible to combine economic performance with respect for the environment. We are proud to contribute to this collective effort for a more sustainable future.”

With its ambitious objectives and gradual implementation, Agen is showing the way for other cities and regions seeking sustainable innovations. This project is further proof of the importance of relying on renewable energies to meet the climate and economic challenges of our time. It also illustrates the ability of local authorities to take concrete action in favor of the energy transition, while providing solutions tailored to the needs of citizens.