Marseille, a city steeped in over a thousand years of history, faces growing demands to modernize its public infrastructure while preserving its heritage. The Lightgogo 5 solar powered garden lamps, this solar garden lights were co-developed by ANETHIC and a local French partner, were installed across the old town’s alleys and boulevards beginning in 2018. Over a thousand units now shine nightly, showcasing how solar lighting systems can seamlessly integrate into historic urban landscapes.
How the Solar garden lights transformed the nighttime ambiance of Marseille’s historic districts, providing reliable illumination without relying on the grid. In this case study, we explore how the Lightgogo 5 solar powered garden lamp project by ANETHIC addresses safety, maintenance, and sustainability challenges through an integrated, off-grid lighting solution. By demonstrating tangible results—reduced energy costs, improved light uniformity, and enhanced urban appeal—we argue that sustainable street lighting is the optimal choice for modern municipal renovation.
The Lightgogo 5 is a solar powered garden light co-developed by ANETHIC and their local partner in France, which was successfully launched in 2018 and has been produced and sold for thousands of units, installed in major cities in Europe, especially in the southern part of France where more than a thousand sets have been installed in various cities and surrounding town streets.
The Lightgogo 5 has a circular retro design, with three support arms to support its round body part, which includes: a solar panel, LED module, LiFePO4 battery module, controlling system, and housing are their major components. Lightgogo 5 still has a maximum power of 60 watts, and also uses high-brightness LEDs with a luminous efficacy of 180 lumens per watt, so that the overall light flux can reach 10,800 lumens, which is comparable to ordinary 100-watt LED garden light products.
Key Benefits of Solar Garden Lights
1. Cost Savings & Energy Independence
By adopting off-grid lighting, Marseille eliminated monthly electricity bills and reduced maintenance costs associated with wiring faults. Solar energy solutions guarantee nightly operation even during power outages.
2. Enhanced Safety & Uniformity
Traditional fixtures left dark spots between poles; with a 70×150° light distribution lens, the Lightgogo 5 achieved uniform illumination at 20–30 m spacing, boosting pedestrian safety.
| Metric | Before (Grid Lights) | After (Lightgogo 5) |
|---|---|---|
| Pole Spacing | 15–20 m | 20–30 m |
| Average Lumen Output per Pole | 8,000 lm | 10,800 lm |
| Energy Cost per Pole (Annual) | €120 | €0 |
| Maintenance Events per Year | 4 | 1 |
Technical Solution & Specifications
ANETHIC’s Lightgogo 5 features a circular, retro design with three support arms. Its major components include:
- Solar Panel (60 W, LiFePO₄-compatible tilt)
- LED Module (180 lm/W efficacy)
- Battery Module (LiFePO₄, 3072 Wh capacity)
- Control System (smart dusk-to-dawn sensor)
- Durable Housing (IP65, UV-resistant)
This robust configuration ensures long-term reliability and aligns with sustainable street lighting goals.
Implementation Strategy
Integrating Solar Lighting Systems for Urban Efficiency
- Site Assessment: Evaluated sunlight exposure, pole locations, and historic aesthetics.
- Customized Tilt Design: Adjusted one support arm height to self-clean and drain panels naturally.
- Modular Installation: Standardized fixtures at 6 m height; spacing optimized via 3D light simulation.
- Training & Handover: Conducted workshops with municipal teams for maintenance best practices.
Results & Impact
- Energy Savings: Annual reduction of 120 MWh city-wide.
- Carbon Reduction: 60 tonnes CO₂ avoided per year.
- Public Satisfaction: 95% positive feedback in citizen surveys on evening ambiance.
- Maintenance Efficiency: 75% fewer service calls compared to grid-connected units.
These outcomes highlight how off-grid lighting fosters resilient, green infrastructures and positions Marseille at the forefront of eco-innovation.
Conclusion & Future Outlook
The Lightgogo 5 project proves that solar garden lights are not just an eco-friendly novelty but a high-performance solution for municipal lighting. By leveraging solar energy solutions, cities can achieve cost savings, enhanced safety, and reduced carbon footprints—all without compromising heritage aesthetics. Marseille’s success paves the way for expanded deployments across southern Europe, where off-grid lighting will redefine public-space illumination.
