Mexico City has awarded Canadian technology company Carmanah Technologies a contract to supply its EG500 solar-powered outdoor lighting system for the country’s new superhighway, Supervia Poniente.

Carmanah’s EG500 solar outdoor lighting product, selected by Mexico officials and the road construction consortium Controladora Via Rapida Poetas, can produce up to 12,500 lumens, and has a cable-free installation and low maintenance schedule, resulting in cost savings.

According to the Canadian company, the system, originally slated for AC-powered lighting, exceeded the lighting standards required for the project: 14 lux average, with 3:1 uniformity, at 30m pole spacing using 9,150 lumens light output.

Besides encouraging zero energy usage, the project supports the country’s commitment to use sustainable technologies in major infrastructure development projects.

The 5km superhighway, which is currently under construction, will link the city’s Santa Fe business district with the Periferico elevated highway.

"Carmanah’s EG500 solar outdoor lighting product can produce up to 12,500 lumens, and has a cable-free installation and low maintenance schedule."

Currently under construction, the highway is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2012, and will generate 10,200 jobs and benefit over 30,000 passengers and 35,000 motorists who will commute between the south and west of Mexico City.

The 2km solar illuminated segment of the highway includes elevated highways and bridges, which are considered to be ideal locations for cost-savings.

A part of Carmanah’s EG-series range, the EG500 solar-powered outdoor lighting system is currently being used on roadways in various countries.

The project is worth $400,000, and the sale was handled by Best Light Mexico and Semex, authorised lighting partners of Carmanah in Mexico.

Recently, the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads in Australia also selected the Carmanah EG series outdoor solar lighting system for roadway lighting across the state.