Sunna Design

About Sunna Design

Sunna Design, established in 2011 by Thomas Samuel, is a key player in the autonomous solar street lighting market. Based in Blanquefort, near Bordeaux, France, the company has developed a strong focus on providing durable and reliable off-grid lighting solutions tailored for a variety of environments, including rural areas in emerging countries and smart city infrastructures. The company's business model revolves around the design, manufacturing, and sale of these solar lighting systems to a diverse client base that includes municipalities, real estate developers, and industrial operators.

The company's product line is distinguished by its proprietary technologies, such as the patented "endurance" technology, which ensures a 10-year operational lifespan without maintenance, even in extreme climates. This durability is achieved through an intelligent energy management system and robust component design. Sunna Design's offerings are not just about illumination; they form a platform for smart city applications. This "Power & Connect™" technology platform allows for the integration of services like remote monitoring, security cameras, and Wi-Fi hotspots, creating additional revenue streams for their clients.

Founder Thomas Samuel's background in both engineering and his experience in Africa directly informed the company's mission. He identified the critical need for reliable public lighting that could withstand harsh conditions without depending on unstable electrical grids. This led to the development of a product designed for longevity and minimal upkeep. Sunna Design has secured significant financial backing, raising over $15 million through several funding rounds from investors including Demeter Partners, Idinvest Partners, and BNP Paribas. In a strategic move to expand its market presence and technological capabilities, Sunna Design acquired Solar Lighting International in 2021, a U.S.-based solar lighting manufacturer.

With an international footprint marked by numerous installations across the globe and a portfolio of 14 patents, the company has established itself within the solar streetlight industry. Its go-to-market strategy involves collaborations with major partners like Schneider Electric and Thorn, which helps in distributing its solutions globally. By focusing on both technological resilience and the integration of smart services, Sunna Design addresses the dual needs of sustainable infrastructure development and the evolving demands of urban connectivity.