Atlas Solar Street Lights for Commercial Gas Stations in Guatemala

Abstract

This case study highlights the deployment of SRESKY Atlas Series solar street lights at a Shell franchise gas station in Guatemala. By introducing sustainable solar lighting technology, the project effectively addressed key challenges including high energy costs, grid instability, and safety concerns. Equipped with the ALS2.3 Adaptive Lighting System, TCS Temperature Control Technology, and high-efficiency LED light sources, the Atlas Series ensured stable illumination for up to 10 consecutive rainy days. This application not only reduced operational costs but also enhanced the brand’s eco-friendly image, setting a benchmark for the green energy transition in Central America. Whether searching for “solar streetlight applications for gas stations” or “tropical climate solar lighting solutions,” this case study provides valuable insights for business owners aiming to achieve cost reduction, efficiency gains, and sustainable development goals.

I. Project Background and Requirements Analysis

1.1 Project Location and Client Profile

Project Name: Guatemala Shell Gas Station Solar Streetlight Project
Client: Shell-affiliated gas station in Guatemala

Geographical Environment:
Located in Central America, Guatemala features a tropical climate with abundant sunshine (5–7 hours daily on average). However, the rainy season (May to October) brings frequent downpours and prolonged overcast conditions, posing significant challenges for outdoor equipment. The hot, humid environment often causes premature failures in traditional lighting systems and increases maintenance complexity.

Business Positioning:
As part of Shell’s global network, this station operates 24/7, offering fueling services, convenience retail, and rest areas. Nighttime illumination plays a crucial role in maintaining brand standards, directly influencing customer traffic and evening sales. Industry data indicates that high-quality lighting extends customer dwell time by more than 20% during night hours, thereby boosting overall revenue.

1.2 Core Challenges and Lighting Requirements

Before project initiation, the station faced several lighting challenges common to tropical commercial environments:

• Energy Cost Pressure: Traditional grid-powered lighting consumes substantial electricity annually, accounting for 10%–15% of operational expenses. Guatemala’s fluctuating electricity pricing further intensifies this burden.

• Grid Instability: Uneven grid coverage and frequent outages (averaging 10–15 per year) often interrupt lighting, leading to safety incidents and business disruption.

• Safety and Security Requirements: Gas stations are high-risk environments that demand full nighttime coverage—entrances, fuel islands, parking areas, and access roads must be well-lit with zero blind spots. PIR motion-sensing technology enables real-time illumination response to vehicles and pedestrians, enhancing site security.

• Sustainability and Brand Image: Shell is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030. Implementing solar lighting aligns with its CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) goals and reinforces its reputation as a sustainable energy leader in local markets.

• Customer Experience Optimization: Uniform, high-brightness lighting (color temperature 5700K, CRI Ra>70) creates a comfortable visual environment, encouraging nighttime drivers to stop and improving brand loyalty.

These requirements led the client to seek a grid-independent solar streetlight solution designed for tropical climates. The SRESKY Atlas Series emerged as the optimal choice, offering brightness levels from 2000LM to 10000LM and IP65/IK08 protection ratings.

II. Technical Solution Design

2.1 Product Selection: SRESKY Atlas Series Smart Solar Streetlights

Tailored to the operational needs of gas stations, the project selected the SRESKY Atlas Series. This product line offers luminous flux from 2000LM to 10000LM, supports installation heights from 3m–10m, and spacing from 15m–32m—ideal for commercial lighting layouts. With over 3,500 global project installations, the Atlas Series has demonstrated consistent reliability in diverse environments.

2.2 Core Technologies and Adaptability Analysis

The Atlas Series integrates multiple patented technologies to ensure optimal performance in Guatemala’s tropical climate:

• All-Weather Stable Lighting (ALS2.3 Technology):
  The ALS2.3 Adaptive Lighting System continuously monitors weather conditions and battery levels, automatically adjusting power output. It maintains consistent illumination for up to 10 consecutive rainy days—reducing brightness decay by over 50% compared to conventional systems. This capability eliminates the “blackout” issue common with standard solar lights during Guatemala’s rainy season.

• Exceptional High-Temperature Performance (TCS Technology):
  The TCS Temperature Control System ensures stable battery operation within -20°C to +60°C. Even in high-temperature conditions, the lithium battery achieves a cycle life of up to 1,500 cycles. This technology effectively prevents overheating and degradation, ensuring long-term reliability in tropical environments.

• High-Efficiency Energy Conversion & Output:

  • Solar Panel: Monocrystalline silicon panels with >23% conversion efficiency; charging time ranges from 6.7–10 hours, even under cloudy conditions.

  • LED Light Source: OSRAM LED chips deliver 230 lm/W luminous efficacy with Type II optical distribution, ensuring uniform illumination and eliminating dark zones.

  • Lithium-Ion Battery: Advanced BMS technology accelerates charging by over 30%.

  • Smart Motion Detection (PIR): High-sensitivity PIR sensor (120° coverage, 8m range) triggers full brightness upon motion detection, combining energy savings with enhanced safety.

  • Rugged Industrial Design: Constructed from aluminum alloy and PC materials with IP65 waterproofing and IK08 impact resistance. The modular design allows direct pole-mounted component replacement, reducing maintenance costs. Optional hybrid power mode (auto-switch to AC when battery <30%) and smart monitoring via app/PC (battery/solar status, scheduling, CCT control) further improve flexibility.

These integrated technologies enable the Atlas Series to excel in tropical commercial environments, delivering performance far superior to standard solar lighting systems.

2.3 Lighting Layout Planning

Based on comprehensive site surveys, the project adopted a scientific layout:

• SSL-32A units (3m height, 15m spacing) for station entrances.

• SSL-38A/310A units (8–10m height, 28–32m spacing) for fuel islands and parking lots.
  Optical simulations confirmed uniform illumination distribution with average brightness levels of 15–20 lux, ensuring safety with zero blind spots.

III. Project Implementation and Execution

3.1 Standardized Installation Process

The installation process was efficient and straightforward, requiring no grid connection:

1. Foundation Preparation: Excavation and pouring of C20 concrete for securing the foundation cage.

2. Luminaire Assembly: Attach the bracket and luminaire body with stainless steel screws.

3. Light Pole Installation: Mount the luminaire onto the pole.

4. Hoisting: Lift and fix the pole to the foundation, tightening bolts for stability.

The entire process was completed in just a few days, minimizing operational disruption. Dual anti-corrosion brackets ensure long-term durability.

3.2 System Commissioning and Mode Configuration

After installation, power on by pressing and holding for 1.5 seconds. For continuous nighttime operation, set to M3 mode (70% brightness until dawn). LED indicators display battery levels—Red (<30%), Orange (30%–70%), and Green (>70%)—for easy monitoring and maintenance.

IV. Project Outcomes and Impact

4.1 Economic Benefits

• Zero electricity costs: Annual savings of several thousand dollars, achieving a payback period of less than 2 years.

• Minimal maintenance: Three-year warranty and modular design reduce maintenance costs by up to 50%.

4.2 Safety and Operational Benefits

• Enhanced safety: High-intensity illumination improves surveillance effectiveness and reduces accident risks.

• Uninterrupted operation: Independent solar power ensures continuous lighting, increasing nighttime customer traffic by approximately 15%.

4.3 Social and Environmental Value

• Carbon reduction: The project lowers emissions and strengthens Shell’s environmental image.

• Green leadership: Promotes wider adoption of clean energy solutions within the local community.

V. Risks and Mitigation Strategies

• Extreme Weather Risk: The ALS2.3 system provides 10-day endurance with intelligent energy allocation to maintain lighting stability.

• Equipment Damage or Theft: Elevated installation combined with IK08 protection and on-site security reduces risk.

• Performance Degradation: The 1,500-cycle battery and TCS technology ensure over five years of reliable performance, with simplified modular replacement when needed.

Conclusion

The Shell Guatemala Solar Streetlight Project demonstrates the outstanding commercial and operational value of the SRESKY Atlas Series. It effectively addresses challenges of cost, safety, and sustainability, providing a reliable solar streetlight solution for B2B clients seeking energy independence and long-term value.