Case Study: Pontesbury–Minsterley Cycle Path Solar Lighting
Background
An international solar lighting project was completed in Pontesbury and Minsterley, two villages connected by a well-used cycle and pedestrian route. The project was supplied and managed by Acrospire Solutions, exclusive UK suppliers of the co-developed Defender-55 solar luminaire—engineered specifically for the UK’s low solar yield.
Project Overview
The route lacked mains power and required lighting to improve safety and encourage after-hours use, particularly for local factory workers commuting between villages. A solar solution was required to meet UK lighting standards while remaining cost-effective and sustainable.
Challenges
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No access to grid power along the route.
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Requirement to meet BS EN 13201 P5 lighting levels at wide pole spacings.
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Need for energy-efficient operation suited to UK solar conditions.
Solution
Working with Highline Electrical, Acrospire delivered PIR-activated, solar-powered lighting using Defender-55 luminaires.
Key elements included:
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Defender-55 luminaires with an integrated 32W solar panel plus an additional 32W panel.
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PIR pedestrian activation to optimise energy use.
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Compliant lighting performance achieved at 30m spacings in line with BS EN 13201 P5.
Products Used
Results
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Improved safety and usability of the cycle path after dark.
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Increased pathway use supporting active transport between villages.
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A sustainable, off-grid lighting solution aligned with council carbon reduction goals.
Duncan Fletcher, Chair of the joint working group, noted:
“The use of solar lighting was an integral part of achieving a sustainable, cost-effective solution, improving this essential route connecting the villages.”
Conclusion
The Pontesbury–Minsterley project demonstrates how solar lighting can deliver compliant, reliable performance on rural UK pathways where grid power is unavailable. Through targeted design and PIR control, the installation improved safety, reduced carbon impact, and enhanced community connectivity.
Special thanks to Acrospire Solutions (UK) for allowing us to share this project.
