Which Big Brands Use Solar Panels on Billboards? (Real-World Examples)

As traditional advertising costs rise and sustainability becomes a core value, many brands are turning to solar-powered billboards to stand out and cut costs.

Top brands are now using solar-powered billboards to reduce emissions, save on energy bills, and strengthen their eco-conscious image.

Solar billboards aren't just trendy—they're a smart investment. In this article, I’ll walk you through how they work, which global brands are already using them, and why they’re gaining popularity fast.

How Do Solar Panels on Billboards Even Work?

Brands often ask, “Will solar panels really power our billboard all day and night?”

Solar billboards use photovoltaic panels¹ to capture sunlight, which is then stored in batteries to power LED displays²—even at night.

The Technical Breakdown

Solar-powered billboards are surprisingly simple in concept. Here’s what makes them tick:

• Solar Panels: Usually monocrystalline panels for higher efficiency. They're mounted either on top of the billboard or nearby.
• Charge Controller: This regulates power flow to protect the battery and ensure smooth charging.
• Battery Storage: Deep-cycle lithium or AGM batteries store enough power to keep the billboard running overnight.
• LED Lighting: LED technology consumes less power than traditional lighting, making it ideal for solar systems.

Component	Function	Common Specs
Solar Panels	Generate electricity from sunlight	300W–600W per panel
Charge Controller	Regulates power flow	MPPT, 12V/24V/48V
Battery Bank	Stores energy for night use	100Ah–300Ah Lithium/AGM
LED Billboard	Displays ads using low power consumption	100W–400W per screen

With the right design, solar billboards³ can function 24/7—even in cloudy weather.

Why Are Major Brands Switching to Solar-Powered Billboards?

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword anymore—it’s an expectation.

Big brands are choosing solar-powered billboards⁴ to align with sustainability goals, reduce their carbon footprint, and earn public trust.

The Bigger Picture

Here’s why brands are making the switch:

1. ESG Pressure

Companies are under increasing pressure to meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. Switching to solar helps meet carbon-reduction targets quickly.

2. Operating Cost Reductions⁵

Solar billboards eliminate the need for grid electricity or diesel generators, cutting monthly power costs dramatically.

3. Remote Deployments

Solar-powered billboards work in off-grid areas. Brands can now advertise in places previously too expensive or complex to reach.

4. PR Value

There’s real marketing value in promoting an ad campaign that’s green. Audiences are more likely to engage with eco-conscious brands.

Which Famous Companies Have Adopted Solar Billboard Advertising?

Now, let's talk names.

Brands like Coca-Cola⁶, Apple, McDonald’s, and Toyota have used solar billboards in real-world campaigns to demonstrate their sustainability leadership⁷.

Global Case Studies

Coca-Cola (Philippines)

Coca-Cola launched a massive solar billboard in Manila covered with plants and powered by solar panels. It not only advertised their product but also absorbed CO2.

Apple (US)

In California, Apple launched solar-powered billboard installations near major tech corridors to promote their environmental initiatives.

McDonald’s (Australia)

To support their sustainability goals, McDonald’s used solar-powered mobile billboards during community events and product launches.

Toyota (Japan)

Toyota promoted their hybrid and EV cars using solar billboards that highlighted their carbon-free messaging.

Brand	Region	Purpose	Solar Component
Coca-Cola	Philippines	Environmental message + branding	Plant-covered solar board
Apple	USA	Green initiative awareness	Off-grid solar billboard
McDonald’s	Australia	Event marketing + community outreach	Mobile solar LED board
Toyota	Japan	Product launch for EV vehicles	Rooftop solar-powered ad

These brands didn’t just use solar billboards—they made them part of their story.

Are Solar Billboards Actually Cost-Effective for Brands?

We get asked this all the time—are they worth the investment?

Yes. Over time, solar-powered billboards significantly reduce electricity or diesel fuel costs⁸, making them more cost-effective⁹ than traditional setups.

The Numbers Behind the Benefits

Here’s a rough comparison between grid-powered and solar-powered billboard systems over a 5-year span.

Category	Grid-Powered Billboard	Solar-Powered Billboard
Monthly Power Cost	$200–$600	$0 (after setup)
Annual Maintenance	Medium	Low
Fuel or Grid Dependency	High	None
Installation Cost (initial)	Lower	Higher
5-Year Operating Cost	$15,000–$30,000	$5,000–$12,000

Solar systems often pay for themselves in under 3 years.

Can Solar Billboards Improve Brand Image and Public Perception?

Absolutely.

Using solar-powered billboards shows a commitment to clean energy and can boost a brand’s reputation with eco-conscious consumers.

The Public Sees—and Cares

Customers care about how products are made and marketed. When they see that your brand uses renewable energy¹⁰ for advertising, they’re more likely to trust and support you.

• Surveys show that over 70% of consumers prefer to buy from sustainable brands¹¹.
• Solar billboards send a clear message of responsibility and innovation.
• Brands can publicly showcase their carbon savings per campaign—great for social media and press coverage.

Sustainable advertising is no longer optional. It’s a way to lead.

Conclusion

Solar-powered billboards are no longer an experiment—they’re the new standard for responsible, cost-efficient branding. And big brands are already showing us the way.