Home Solar lighting blog About solar lighting Retail Chains: Cut Costs and Stay Ahead of Regulations with Solar Power

Why Is Solar Lighting Ideal for Retail?

The energy transition is no longer optional—it’s essential. Here’s why solar lighting is perfectly suited to the needs of large retail spaces: 

• Optimize existing areas: Parking lots provide an ideal space for autonomous solar lighting, turning underused areas into real energy assets. 

• Fast, simple installation: Unlike wired systems, solar poles require no major work, reducing installation time and limiting disruption to business. 

• Instant energy savings: Thanks to energy autonomy, solar lighting cuts dependency on fossil fuels and generates long-term cost reductions. 

Solar Lighting and Regulatory compliance

Retail zones must now comply with increasingly demanding regulations. Rather than being constraints, these rules are an opportunity to optimize energy use with more efficient and sustainable solutions. 

Complying with the December 27, 2018 Decree

• Controlled hours: Lighting can only be turned on after sunset. It must be switched off no later than two hours after the end of business activity. In the morning, it can be turned back on starting at 7 a.m., or one hour before the activity begins if it starts earlier.. 

• Power limits: Installed Light Flux Density (DSFLI) must not exceed 25 lm/m² in urban areas and 20 lm/m² in non-urban zones. 

• Parking spaces and pathways for persons with reduced mobility: Mandatory enhanced lighting for disabled spaces, with a recommended average of at least 20 lux for comfort and safety. 

• Color temperature: Maximum allowed is 3000K. 

• Upward Light Ratio (ULR): 

• • <1% (manufacturer rating, no tilt) 

• • <4% (on-site, with tilt) 

• CIE Flux Code No. 3: At least 95% of the light must be directed downward within a 75.5° half-angle cone.

Why Solar Lighting Makes It Easy to Comply? 

• Timestamp & Auto-programming: For compliance with time restrictions. 

• Lighting scenarios & motion sensors: Lights activate only when needed, at the right intensity. 

• Flexibility: Easily enhance lighting for accessible spots without new infrastructure. 

Getting Ready for the Climate & Resilience Law

By 2028, all commercial parking lots over 1,500 m² must be equipped with solar canopies. Solar lighting is an immediate step toward compliance, turning regulations into a competitive edge. 

Improve Safety and Efficiency in Parking and Logistics Areas

Lighting isn’t just about compliance—it directly affects user safety and experience (customers and staff alike).

For Customer and Employee Parking

Poor lighting can harm the customer experience and discourage visits, especially in the evening or winter. Visibility, security, and energy performance are top priorities. Sunna Design’s solar streetlights offer a comprehensive solution through smart innovations:

• Motion detection: Lights activate only when movement is detected—no energy waste. 

• Rise-On option: Power extra devices like security cameras, digital displays, or festive lighting. 

• Lamp monitoring: On-site control via the SunnAPP and remote fleet management with SunnaCloud. 

• Hybrid mode (solar + grid): A smooth solar transition for wired sites or cautious adopters. 

Leading retailers like IKEA, E. Leclerc, and Sport 2000 already trust Sunna Design to secure their facilities and reduce energy bills.

For Logistics Areas

In loading zones and warehouses, where work often goes on after hours, reliable lighting is essential to ensure team safety and efficient operations. Sunna Design brings cutting-edge tech to meet these demands:

• High-performance lighting: Tailored to logistics needs with the Maxi4, UP4, or EverGen lines. 

• Smart detection: Lights only operate during activity to cut costs. 

• Enhanced safety: Power additional security gear via the Rise-On option. 

Solar Lighting: A strategic Asset for Retail

Solar lighting is more than an eco-friendly option—it’s a strategic advantage. It lowers operating costs and ensures full regulatory compliance. 

Retailers also boost their brand image by aligning with consumers’ growing demand for environmental responsibility. By adopting smart and scalable lighting, they stay ahead of market changes and build resilience against energy price volatility. 

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