A post that uses the sun’s rays to light LED lamps has been developed by a design student at the Federal University of Pernambuco, in northern Brazil. A prototype was built by technicians from the university who volunteered their time to work on the project.

The post is constructed of steel and fitted with a 70-watt photovoltaic plaque that transforms sunlight into enough solar power to light 12 LED lamps. A battery and sensor keep the lights burning when the sun is hidden.

“The advantage of this prototype over others already invented is its resistant structure. The lamps have a 20-year guarantee and the batteries have a useful life of up to five years,” student and inventor Alberes Vasconcelos told Tierramérica.

"The plaque is inlaid and so it is protected, making this system ideal for public lighting. The investment required is high, but can be recovered through savings in energy consumption,” added Vasconcelos.