Published August 18, 2026 · Updated August 31, 2026
Introduction
Choosing between solar and mains power for a traffic signal affects the initial cost, the operating cost and the long-term reliability. This guide compares the two over a 20-year lifetime.
Installation Cost
| Cost | Solar | Mains |
|---|---|---|
| Signal heads | Same | Same |
| Controller | Solar variant: compare the quoted configuration and lifecycle costs. | Mains variant |
| Panel + battery + mount | Verify the selected battery data and operating conditions. | Use the project quotation and documented scope. |
| Mains connection | Use the project quotation and documented scope. | Obtain a site-specific quotation for grid connection and civil works |
| Civil works (trenching) | Use the project quotation and documented scope. | Use the project quotation and documented scope. |
| Total install | Use the project quotation and documented scope. | Use the project quotation and documented scope. |
Distance to mains is one cost factor. Compare the actual connection quotation, trenching and reinstatement, permissions, solar equipment, batteries and maintenance for the site. There is no universal distance at which solar becomes cheaper to install.
Operating Cost
Illustrative energy arithmetic only: a constant 100 W load operating 24 hours per day uses 2.4 kWh/day and 876 kWh in 365 days. At an assumed $0.15/kWh, this is $131.40 per year or $2,628 over 20 identical years, before tariff changes, maintenance and replacements. This is not a complete TCO or a product power rating.
Solar-powered signals use solar energy but still incur maintenance and battery replacement costs. Battery service life depends on chemistry, temperature, depth of discharge and operating conditions. For a cost comparison, use the selected battery’s documented replacement assumptions and an actual quotation rather than a universal replacement interval.
Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period.
20-Year TCO
| Scenario | Install | 20-yr Op | TCO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar (AGM), remote site | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. |
| Solar (LiFePO4), remote site | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. |
| Mains, adjacent to grid | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. |
| Mains, 500 m from grid | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. | Calculate from the stated inputs over the same assessment period. |
Compare mains and solar lifecycle costs over the same study period using site-specific installation, electricity, maintenance and replacement assumptions. Grid distance and battery choice can materially change the result; neither urban nor remote location alone establishes the cheaper option.
Featured Products
GAOQIAO supplies both solar traffic signals and mains-powered signals. See the solar ROI calculation guide.
Conclusion
Compare solar and mains options for the same load and operating requirements. Include grid-connection work, equipment, installation, energy, maintenance and replacement assumptions. Send GAOQIAO the site information to confirm the available supply scope. Do not infer the lower total cost from distance to the grid alone or assume a total-cost analysis service is included without agreement.
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Email: sky-sale@njgq.net
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Frequently Asked Questions
How reliable is solar in winter?
Assess solar operation using the load, seasonal generation, usable battery capacity and required autonomy for the site. Verify charging recovery and maintenance assumptions as well as the worst design month. Ask GAOQIAO to confirm the selected system’s autonomy; do not assume that all systems provide a minimum of 3 days or guarantee year-round operation.
What if the site needs more than 3 days autonomy?
Request a battery configuration calculated for the required autonomy, actual load and site conditions. Confirm availability with GAOQIAO. Additional battery capacity may require greater solar charging capacity and a revised recovery-time calculation.
Can I switch from solar to mains later?
A conversion requires checking the controller, signal heads, supply voltages, power interfaces and protection. Do not assume that only the power source changes. Ask GAOQIAO to confirm compatibility and the required modifications for the selected equipment.
Relevant GAOQIAO products
These public GAOQIAO catalogue pages are related to the guide. Open them for the representative description, then confirm the latest drawing and configuration before ordering.
- Traffic signal controllersWired and solar controllers with 6, 22, 44 and 56 output options.
- LED traffic signal heads200mm, 300mm and 400mm signal heads; confirm the selected model and applicable project requirements.
- Signal polesVertical, signal arm and double-arm poles; confirm suitability for the approved site design.
- Spare parts and accessoriesSpare LED modules, lenses, visors, surge arrestors and anchor bolts.
Related buyer resources
- Traffic Signal Controller Cabinet Guide
- Traffic Light Wiring Diagram Guide
- Traffic Light IP Ratings Guide
- Traffic Signal Head Specification Guide
- Solar Traffic Signal Site Survey
- Contact GAOQIAO
Request a quotation for solar or mains-powered traffic signals