A new solar powered streetlight is being described as the "world's most efficient and cost effective solar powered LED street lighting solution."

Developed by Philips, the lighting system has been dubbed Solar Gen2 and was created in conjunction with NXP Semiconductors. It combines high efficiency, high brightness LED lights with solar panels and an intelligent charge controller to create what Philips claims is an extremely energy efficient set-up. The bulbs are bright enough that the lights can be spaced 50 meters apart and Philips says that the solar-powered design is especially useful for sun-drenched cities along the equator.

"By combining the latest LED lighting with solar and battery developments, Solar Gen2 offers a best-in class, reliable and cost-effective off-grid lighting solution that can help cities meet their growing energy demand and significantly improve the lives of people who currently live without electricity," explained Marc de Jong, Philips' CEO of professional lighting services.

The lights are currently being tested in markets across South East Asia, Africa, China, India, and North America, though specific cities were not revealed.