Beachwood begins first-in-Ohio pilot solar street light program
BEACHWOOD, Ohio — A 2024 survey told Beachwood city leaders that almost 70 percent of residents wanted improved street lighting.
In response, Beachwood is embarking on a solar-light pilot program that is a first in Ohio.
The subject of adding street lighting in Beachwood dates back 30 years, or more.
While some prefer to keep streets without lights, City Council has been holding discussions in recent times to try and find the best lighting to make as many residents happy as possible while also observing the environmental impact of adding street lights.
Last year, council determined it would follow the path of solar-powered lighting, realizing that method may have some limitations.
The city now has 650 street lights positioned only on main roads and at intersections with side streets. It was estimated that to fully light the city’s side streets it would take another 900 to 1,000 lights.
From left are Beachwood Public Works Director Chris Arrietta, Mayor Justin Berns, Fonroche Lighting America CEO Hocine Benaoum, and members of the installation crew.City of Beachwood
Adding traditional street lights, it was noted at a council committee meeting in August, 2024, would be a costly endeavor.
On Wednesday (April 30), the city announced that it has begun the process of moving toward its stated goal of a sustainable and energy-efficient future by launching a new solar-powered street light pilot program in residential areas.
Installation of the innovative lighting system has begun along Beachwood Boulevard and Ranch Road, both located off South Green Road.
The installation marks the start of a project that is designed to reduce environmental impact and respond directly to community feedback.
In February, City Council voted unanimously to approve what it deems a practical and fiscally responsible solar street light pilot program.
Following council’s directive, the administration evaluated six proposals, considering factors such as battery types, installation methods, warranty terms, and costs.
The evaluation determined that SmartLights from Fonroche Lighting America would be the best option for the pilot program.
“These solar street lights represent more than just lighting our community,” Mayor Justin Berns stated in a city release, “they symbolize our commitment to innovation through sustainability and meeting the needs of our community.”
The pilot program is expected to run for a minimum of two years, which will allow city officials to evaluate factors such as the impact of winter weather, battery performance during low-sunlight periods, and the overall effectiveness of the system.
If successful, the initiative would hold long-term benefits that would include enhanced neighborhood night lighting, reduced utility costs, and alignment with Beachwood’s green initiatives.
Berns and City Council view the program as a forward-thinking blend of technology, environmental stewardship, and community-centered planning, and see it setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects.
“Fonroche Lighting America is honored to support the city of Beachwood in bringing Ohio’s first solar-powered residential lighting project of its kind to life,” said Fonroche Lighting America CEO Hocine Benaoum, in the city release.
The SmartLights are being spaced approximately 150 feet apart and feature an adaptive lighting profile that adjusts brightness based on sunset and sunrise to ensure efficient, targeted lighting throughout the night.
Dark-sky compliant, the lights are designed to reduce light pollution while enhancing visibility where it is most needed.
Each unit operates with zero emissions, uses recyclable materials, and includes wireless monitoring for real-time performance tracking and potential maintenance savings.
The city is encouraging residents to visit the pilot areas to experience the new lighting firsthand and then share their feedback by emailing pilot@beachwoodohio.com.
Community input, along with performance data, will play an important role in determining whether the program will be expanded citywide.
“As part of our commitment to major cities nationwide, Fonroche is providing on-site expertise to help complete the project in just a few days — a third of the time and cost for traditional lighting,” said Benaoum.
As for the pilot program’s cost, $114,576, a NOPEC Energized Community Grant will cover $78,736, or 68.7 percent of the price.
The total cost includes installation and remote monitoring of 29 lights, as well as support from Fonroche Lighting America.
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