Malaysia is allocating RM34.19 million this year to install solar-powered LED streetlights at 362 selected locations on federal roads nationwide, with rural and remote areas among the main targets, Bernama reported.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said solar lighting was particularly suitable for locations far from the electricity grid, areas vulnerable to cable theft or vandalism, as well as village and interior roads.
“The installation of solar-powered street lights will continue to be assessed in a targeted manner based on technical suitability, cost-effectiveness, maintenance requirements and the benefits of green technology,” he said during a Dewan Negara question-and-answer session on Monday.
However, Nanta said conventional LED lights remained more economical where electricity supply was already available, as solar systems carry higher installation costs. Batteries alone account for about 60% of the total cost of the lighting equipment.
On the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK), 297 solar-powered LED streetlights are expected to be installed at several locations between Bentong Timur, Karak and Kampung Sungai Dua by the end of this year.
A separate widening project will also bring streetlights to about 26 kilometres between the area after the Genting Sempah Tunnel and Mempaga Intersection.
The KLK widening from Gombak Toll Plaza to Mempaga Intersection was 6.4% complete as of July 25 and is expected to finish in 2030.
