Self-contained solar module based lighting systems have been installed along the M-7 Volga and M-5 Urals federal highways in the Republic of Bashkortostan, regional news agency Bashinform reports.

Plans are to install 64 such systems, which are expected to enable the region to save on new power transmission facilities and other related costs. The region also expects to save on electricity consumption an estimated $7,600 a year, the source says.

Authorities also hope the innovative technology will increase traffic safety, especially at nighttime.
On each light tower, a reported 540 high-brightness LEDs will be installed illuminating an area equivalent to that of a 180W incandescent lamp. The system with a reported 25-year service life is said to withstand rigorous drops in temperature and with fully charged storage batteries operates for 72 hours non-stop.

The self-contained solar module based lighting systems are being mounted on 22 pedestrian crossings and bus stops, Bashinform says. By the crossings, they will be put on both sides of a road. The light will also be reflected in tiny glass globules soldered in road markings, helping both pedestrians and drivers who will be able to see the light from afar.

System developers say that in winter time, or when the sun is shut off by clouds, batteries will accumulate energy from natural daylight illumination.