Why Georgia Businesses Are Switching to Commercial Solar Outdoor Lighting

If you’ve driven through parts of Georgia lately, you may have noticed something new: solar-powered street lights popping up in parking lots, parks, and even around shopping centers. It’s not just a trend—it’s a smart move that more and more businesses, developers, and local governments are making.

At Greenshine, we’ve helped clients all over Georgia install commercial solar outdoor lighting systems that save money, reduce energy use, and keep properties lit—without the hassle of wiring or high electric bills. 

Georgia Has the Sun—So Let’s Use It

Georgia receives an average of 220+ sunny days a year. That makes it one of the better states in the Southeast for solar energy production. Unlike some other parts of the U.S. where overcast skies limit effectiveness, solar lights in Georgia can consistently charge throughout the day and operate all night.

Solar outdoor lighting systems from Greenshine operate entirely off-grid. They use high-efficiency panels and long-lasting batteries to power LED lights—ideal for illuminating parking lots, pathways, parks, streets, signage, and more. And because they don’t require trenching or electrical work, they’re faster and less expensive to install.

Where Commercial Solar Lighting Works Best in Georgia

Some cities in Georgia are particularly well-suited for commercial solar lighting due to a mix of sunlight availability, infrastructure needs, and growing urban development:

1. Atlanta

As Georgia’s largest city, Atlanta has thousands of commercial properties, public parks, campuses, and developments that require outdoor lighting. With high energy costs and a growing push for greener infrastructure, many businesses and local governments are turning to solar street lights and area lighting. Atlanta also has a Climate Action Plan that supports renewable energy solutions.

2. Savannah

Savannah’s historic charm is paired with increasing modernization, especially in areas like the downtown business district, riverfront, and residential developments. Greenshine’s decorative solar lights blend seamlessly into the aesthetic while offering cost-effective, grid-free lighting.

3. Augusta

Augusta is investing heavily in public infrastructure and downtown revitalization projects. Solar-powered lighting solutions are a fit for parks, trails, and new commercial spaces where conventional electrical infrastructure may not be in place.

4. Macon

Macon-Bibb County has been exploring renewable energy for city operations, and solar outdoor lighting fits right in. It’s especially useful in rural and suburban outskirts where electrical connections are cost-prohibitive.

5. Columbus

As a regional hub, Columbus is expanding its commercial base. Solar lighting solutions offer cost savings for large lots, new retail centers, and public areas. The city’s focus on community development makes clean, low-maintenance lighting an ideal choice.

6. Athens

Athens has always had a progressive vibe, and that’s showing up in how the city is thinking about infrastructure. There’s a growing push toward sustainable development, especially in new neighborhoods, trails, and public spaces. That’s where solar lighting really shines. It’s low-maintenance, cost-effective, and doesn’t require tying into the grid—perfect for areas where running power lines would be a headache. As the city grows, solar offers a smarter, cleaner way to keep things lit without driving up energy costs.

Why Businesses Are Choosing Commercial Solar Lighting

Businesses and cities across Georgia are investing in solar outdoor lighting for several practical reasons:

1. Cost Savings

With no monthly utility bills and minimal maintenance costs, solar lighting pays for itself over time. Installation costs are lower too—no trenching or wiring needed.

2. Energy Independence

Solar lighting isn’t affected by grid outages or rising electricity rates. That’s important in Georgia, where storm-related outages can impact wide areas.

3. Fast Installation

Our systems are designed for efficient installation compared to conventional lighting. Our installations can be completed more quickly by eliminating the need for trenching and extensive wiring. 

4. Sustainability

Using solar helps reduce your carbon footprint. It’s also a visible commitment to sustainability, which customers, investors, and communities increasingly value.

5. Smart Features

Our lights can be configured to include a range of advanced options such as programmable controls, motion sensors, dimming capabilities, and remote monitoring. This flexibility allows clients to tailor the system to their specific needs and operational requirements.

Solar Incentives Available in Georgia

Solar lighting in Georgia is already cost-effective, but incentives make it even better. Here are a few programs available:

Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

This is one of the most powerful tools for commercial solar investment. Businesses can claim up to 30% of the system cost as a federal tax credit. This applies to the total project cost, including materials and installation.

MACRS Depreciation

Commercial solar lighting qualifies for the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), which allows businesses to depreciate the value of their solar system over five years. Bonus depreciation allows for a 100% deduction in the first year (through 2026).

Georgia Power Commercial Energy Efficiency Program

While solar lighting doesn't directly qualify under all of Georgia Power’s programs, many businesses that pair lighting with other clean technologies can benefit. Georgia Power also offers guidance and rebates for LED upgrades and energy-efficient technologies, which may complement a solar transition.

Local Incentives

Many cities and counties in Georgia offer their own grant programs, green building incentives, or permit fee reductions for renewable projects. For example:

• Atlanta: Has a 100% Clean Energy plan with procurement guidelines that may favor solar lighting.
  
  

• Savannah and DeKalb County have clean energy initiatives that can support solar infrastructure through community grants or development incentives.
  
  

Why Greenshine?

At Greenshine, we specialize in commercial solar lighting systems designed for durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal. We are glad to work closely with developers, municipalities, business owners, and contractors across Georgia to design the right solution for each site.

We provide lighting for:

• Parking lots at retail and office centers
  
  

• City parks and greenways
  
  

• Street and pathway lighting in new subdivisions
  
  

• Sign and monument illumination
  
  

• School and campus facilities
  
  

Each project is tailored to local conditions, including sunlight exposure, site layout, and lighting requirements. Our team handles everything from design to delivery, and we also offer support for permitting and incentive paperwork.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Georgia’s future is bright—and so are its streets, parks, and business districts. Commercial solar outdoor lighting offers a smart, affordable way to improve safety, reduce costs, and support sustainability goals. With generous incentives and plenty of sunshine, there’s never been a better time to switch.

If you're in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Athens—or anywhere in Georgia—and you're ready to explore commercial solar lighting, Greenshine is here to help. Let’s talk about your project and show you how solar lighting can work for your property.