MTVH trials its first solar-powered streetlight

10 November 2026

Summary: MTVH has trialled its first solar-powered streetlight, in a move that could reduce carbon emissions, maintenance requirements and costs while reducing the disruption associated with underground supply cables.

MTVH colleagues have installed a solar-powered streetlight in Islip, West London, following a fault with an underground supply cable.

A traditional repair would have required approximately 20 metres of excavation through tarmac footpaths, while carefully avoiding existing gas and water services. A new armoured supply cable would then have needed to be installed. This would have been costly, disruptive and time-consuming, with the work likely to take several days to complete.

Instead, the team decided to trial a solar-powered lighting unit on the existing streetlight column.

The initial results have been promising. The light has continued to operate throughout the hours of darkness, and colleagues are continuing to monitor its performance over the winter period.

If the trial remains successful, the team will explore whether the technology could be used on other MTVH estates.

Mark Selfridge, Electrical Qualifying Supervisor, Metworks, said:

"The benefits of this approach include a reduced carbon footprint, lower energy costs, reduced maintenance requirements, no risks associated with underground electrical supply cables, and no requirement for periodic electrical inspection and testing. If the results remain positive, this could become an exciting and practical solution for both street lighting and car park lighting."

Below: The new solar street light

Below: The location of the failed underground supply cable