<p>The development of novel strategies to enhance the performance of conventional photo-assisted electrochemical technologies for the degradation of recalcitrant pollutants in water is of increasing interest. In this context, the use of a UV-LED strip light surface modified with TiO₂/graphite as a flexible photoanode has shown promise as an efficient tool for wastewater treatment. In this study, a systematic investigation of the operating variables affecting the performance of the flexible photoanode was conducted, aiming to maximize the photo-electrocatalytic production of hydroxyl radicals (^•OH). A 2³ factorial design was employed to evaluate the individual and combined effects of cell potential, electrolysis time, and light intensity on photo-electrocatalytic coumarin removal, monitored by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The concentration of ^•OH was determined indirectly through its reaction with coumarin, measured using fluorescence spectroscopy. Given the high oxidative potential and non-specific reactivity of ^•OH towards organic molecules, the optimal operational conditions were subsequently applied to assess the system’s capacity to degrade sulfamethoxazole, a representative emerging contaminant, determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The results indicate that adaptable and scalable photo-electrocatalytic devices employing internally illuminated LED-based photo-active electrodes enhance semiconductor activation, offering an effective approach for the treatment of organic pollutants in water.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>