24 July 2013

Path to greener, more cost-effective lighting in cities explored in guide

Path to greener, more cost-effective lighting in cities explored in guide

Lighting accounts for 50 percent of energy consumption in European cities, and up to 60 percent of municipal expenditure. To help cities reduce these figures and meet the targets set out in the Europe 2020 goals, the European Commission has produced the guide "Lighting the Cities: Accelerating the Deployment of Innovative Lighting in European Cities".

Focusing mainly on innovative and eco-friendly Solid State Lighting (SSL) solutions, which utilise light-emitting diodes (LED) to reduce electricity used in lighting by up to 70 percent, the guide looks at the procurement and large-scale roll out of these intelligent systems in European cities. In particular, the guide addresses cities that are still considering their first LED lighting projects or have limited experience in this field.

Recommendations are given on how cities can initiate an SSL deployment, from the preparation of an urban lighting strategy, development of the business case through consideration of immediate cost savings and longer term analysis. Information is also provided on engaging with local businesses and citizens to ensure wide-spread acceptance and success.

To view the guide, click here.