Fort Worth begins major solar lighting upgrade to improve neighborhood safety and save energy
Fort Worth, Texas – The City of Fort Worth has teamed up with Fonroche Lighting America to install more than 3,400 solar-powered streetlights as part of the ongoing “Support the Neighborhood LED Streetlight Capital Project.” The initiative, made possible by a $12 million grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), focuses on upgrading lighting in 30 neighborhoods across the city, while aiming to cut over $3 million in annual energy costs.
The project is replacing outdated and often unreliable streetlights with advanced solar-powered alternatives, specifically in areas where foot traffic is high or near schools, parks, and other frequently visited community locations. According to the city, neighborhoods were prioritized based on several factors including the age and type of current lighting, proximity to pedestrian-heavy areas, roadway types, and equity-related needs.
Innovative Technology Designed for Resilience
Fonroche’s solar streetlights come equipped with their proprietary Power 365 battery system, which ensures reliable performance year-round—even in extreme conditions ranging from -40 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. The lights also boast an “All Night Lighting Guarantee,” meaning they will remain operational throughout the night without needing to tap into the power grid. This not only eliminates energy consumption but also dramatically reduces carbon emissions and saves on maintenance and infrastructure costs.
“These lights are not just replacements; they represent a transformation in how we illuminate our neighborhoods,” officials explained. “They work every night of the year—even during power outages—and they help us build a cleaner, safer Fort Worth.”
Phased Rollout Already Making an Impact
The multi-year project began in 2023 and has already replaced 1,123 conventional streetlights with solar-powered systems. Residents in neighborhoods such as Eastland, Glen Park, Morningside, Near East Side, Rosemont, Ryan Place, and South Hills have experienced the first wave of benefits. In the summer of 2025, installation continues with an additional 1,000 lights set for areas including Overton South, Westcreek Central, Polytechnic Heights, Highland Hills, South Hemphill Heights, and Wedgwood East.
Next up in 2025 are Central Meadowbrook, Oakridge Terrace, Historic Stop Six, Brentwood-Oak Hills, and Parker Essex Boaz. City officials confirm the entire upgrade is on schedule to be completed by 2026, with all 30 targeted neighborhoods receiving the solar lighting systems.
Community Satisfaction and Long-Term Goals
A 2023 resident survey revealed that only 40% of Fort Worth citizens were satisfied with the city’s street lighting—a figure notably below the national average. City leaders say the new solar technology addresses these longstanding concerns by improving visibility and public safety, especially in underserved areas.
“From forming strategic partnerships with industry leaders to adopting evolving energy technologies, our focus is on setting Fort Worth apart as a leader in innovation and opportunity,” said Mayor Mattie Parker.
Fonroche Lighting America is a globally recognized provider of solar-powered lighting solutions known for developing sustainable, low-maintenance systems that improve public infrastructure while reducing environmental impact. Their collaboration with Fort Worth highlights how clean technology can enhance daily life for residents and improve city infrastructure without adding to energy demands.
The city’s streetlight initiative not only sets a new standard for sustainability in urban development but also proves how strategic investment in green technology can create long-lasting benefits for safety, accessibility, and cost-efficiency.
