StreetLightNews

Japanese company Sharp is now launching a solar-powered streetlight. Combining Sharp’s own solar modules and long-life, white LEDs, the Japanese company presents the environmentally friendly streetlight solution of the 21st century. The unit delivers brightness at the highest level; still the unit does not produce any light pollution, uses no mercury, and emits no ultraviolet light.

Storage batteries charge from sunlight during the day and shines automatically at night. The level of maintenance is minimal as Sharp’s solution only requires replacement once every 10 years.

One of the extra benefits that especially cities in earthquake zones will enjoy is the built-in seismic motion sensor. This feature enables the unit to detect any earthquake measuring five or higher on the Japanese Seismic Intensity Scale. When detected, the unit will turn on full brightness at nighttime hours for at least two days.

Initially, the solution will be available on the Japanese market. In Europe, the European Union applaudes companies who commit to the reudction of light pollution. Thus, the EU GreenLight Programme has been developed to involve public and private organisations in upgrading their lighting systems to reduce light pollution. Well-known B2C companies such as McDonald’s and Nike have been awarded partner status, while international operating B2B companies such as Amplex A/S and Reverberi Enetec are awarded the endorser status.

BBC News is reporting that more than 15,000 street light columns, or over 85% of the stock, will be replaced in Redcar and Cleveland, UK. The existing columns have passed their 25-year life expectancy, and another 2,500 street lights will be added over the next few years in order to raise the standard of the cities’ public lighting. It has been established that the distance between the existing lights is too large, so the additional 2,500 street lights will ensure better lid roads and improve safety for both motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.

GE has recently decided to cease manufacturing of the relatively inefficient Low Pressure Sodium lamps. This follows a general market trend with a shift towards the newer HID technology with e.g. High Pressure Sodium lamps. These have a better color rendition and whiter output, which is believed to prevent accidents, improve reaction times and reduce crime. Furthermore, the lamps are more efficient, enabling fewer lights, less maintenance and compliance with dark skies recommendations. Read the full article at the Institution of Lighting Engineeers’ website…

In Hanoi, Vietnam, the street light installations are outdated and not very energy efficient. Also, many of the poles are placed in the center of the road where they do not do pedestrians much good.
Therefore, the plan is to change 1,000 11-meter concrete poles with 9-meter aluminum ones. Furthermore, almost 2,000 bulbs will be replaced with energy-efficient bulbs (LEDs?). If the plan is approved, the lights will be changed by 2010 for the city’s 1,000-year anniversary. Read the article…

In the UK, an alternative approach to lowering casualties on the motorways is being tested. A pilot study will reveal whether turning off the street lights on a stretch of motorway, primarily to obtain energy savings, may have the added benefit of potentially saving lives. This is based on a theory that drivers are more aware of oncoming cars if the surroundings are completely dark than if they are lit up by street light. Also, it is believed that drivers are more cautious if the road is not illuminated.
Intelligent, solar powered road studs will temporarily replace the traditional street lighting during the pilot. Read more here…