The replacement of traditional bulbs with LED devices in public lighting can result in up to 85% energy savings for cities and around 40% reduction in public expenses. These figures come from a study conducted by Philips in partnership with the Climate Group, which evaluated several cities worldwide, including major centers like New York and London.
According to the research, public area lighting currently accounts for nearly 20% of global electricity consumption and is responsible for 6% of greenhouse gas emissions, making it a topic of discussion in relation to global warming.
In this article, we will discuss the process of installing public lamps, the most advantageous models, and why LED technology is the best option for this and other lighting purposes. Stay with us and find out more!
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PUBLIC LIGHTING?
Public lighting is essential for extending the period of activity in cities and ensuring the safety and tranquility of citizens during the night. However, there is still much room for improvement in terms of efficiency and sustainability.
Brazilian legislation clarifies that public lighting is the full responsibility of municipalities, which generally charge fees for the maintenance of this service included in the electricity bill.
Therefore, all processes involved in urban lighting, such as installation, replacement, and purchase of lamps, as well as the maintenance of the lighting structure in the city, are managed by the municipality. This is the case even when the switching on and off of the lights is controlled by the regional power distributor.
Citizens who wish to report issues or request new installations in their neighborhoods should contact the company responsible for public lighting or the municipality of their city.
HOW IS THE INSTALLATION OF A PUBLIC LUMINAIRE DONE?
Sodium lamps were once widely used in parking lots, clubs, event areas, and also in public lighting. This extensive use was due to their ability to deliver higher and more efficient brightness compared to household lamps.
The problem is that their lifespan is much shorter compared to LED lamps, which, in turn, also provide a more comfortable and clear light, ideal for creating pleasant and safe environments for people using the space.
Today, LED luminaires are the most advanced solution for illuminating large areas. In addition to the obvious advantages of LED technology, current models eliminate concerns about specific sockets and constant lamp replacements.
Their use is already very common in external areas of clubs, shopping malls, and condominiums. Additionally, they are also used in locations that require stronger illumination to facilitate the movement of people and vehicles during the night.
The installation of a public luminaire, on the other hand, depends on a series of technical and safety procedures established by the responsible utility company in the region. Therefore, this is a procedure that can only be carried out by an authorized professional.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TYPES OF PUBLIC LUMINAIRES?
Public lighting requires resilient devices with a luminous flux capable of illuminating streets, sidewalks, squares, and roads. LED models are the premier choice in the market and are already extensively utilized as they deliver intense and clear light. Besides these indispensable attributes for such environments, they virtually require no maintenance. Explore the top options below!
SUPER LED
The Super LED public luminaire represents the most cost-effective model on our list. Constructed with highly durable aluminum and equipped with cutting-edge LED chips, it excels at efficiently illuminating vast urban areas, maximizing light distribution.
LED SMD
Renowned for its superior cost-effectiveness, the LED SMD public luminaire stands as the optimal solution for enhancing security and promoting energy savings in various settings, including squares, streets, and parking lots. Its remarkable benefits extend beyond its economic advantages, as it also offers exceptional brightness and a significantly lower energy consumption when compared to alternative LED luminaire options. With its advanced SMD (Surface Mounted Device) technology, this luminaire ensures precise and uniform light distribution, enhancing visibility and creating a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists. Additionally, its long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements contribute to its overall value, making it an ideal choice for long-term lighting solutions.
ULTRA LED SMD
For a more robust solution, the Ultra LED SMD public luminaire stands as the top choice in the market. With its distinctive coating and state-of-the-art chip, this luminaire model delivers unmatched performance among all the options in our list. Harnessing the power of advanced SMD (Surface Mounted Device) technology, it ensures superior light output, exceptional energy efficiency, and extended lifespan. The Ultra LED SMD luminaire’s innovative design and cutting-edge features make it the pinnacle of lighting solutions, providing unparalleled illumination quality and durability. Whether illuminating streets, parks, or other public spaces, this luminaire guarantees optimal performance and reliability, setting a new standard for excellence in public lighting.
SOLAR LED
The epitome of economy and sustainability, Solar LED luminaires have become widely adopted for street and highway lighting. Their greatest advantage lies in the built-in rechargeable solar battery, eliminating the need for wiring or external power sources. These luminaires harness the power of sunlight, converting it into renewable energy to illuminate public spaces. With their self-sustaining nature, Solar LED luminaires offer a practical and eco-friendly solution, reducing energy consumption and carbon footprint. Embracing cutting-edge solar technology, these luminaires operate autonomously, providing efficient and reliable lighting without reliance on traditional electricity grids. By leveraging the abundant power of the sun, Solar LED luminaires pave the way towards a greener future, revolutionizing the landscape of public lighting.
WHAT BENEFITS CAN LED LIGHTING BRING? It is well-established that LED technology offers the best option in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Although LED bulbs may have a higher market value compared to conventional lamps, the long-term savings make them a much more advantageous choice.
Furthermore, LED bulbs benefit from a strong environmental appeal. They are the only type of electric lighting that does not contain harmful materials to health and the environment. With a lifespan that can surpass decades and a minimal failure rate, the pollution generated by the production, distribution, and maintenance of LED products is also minimized.
The study mentioned at the beginning of the article was presented at the Rio+20 Global Compact Sustainability Forum, one of the largest events organized by the UN, and it also revealed other relevant information about the impact of LED technology on public lighting.
The report showed that residents in the surveyed cities demonstrated a preference for LED luminaires. For example, in São Paulo’s Ibirapuera Park, nighttime visitation increased by 30% after the replacement of bulbs.
According to Philips, if the United States alone were to replace all its public lighting with LEDs, there would be a 40% reduction in energy demand and an annual savings of $53 billion. Therefore, there is no doubt that LED technology is the present and future of lighting, and its light will become increasingly prevalent in homes, streets, and businesses worldwide.
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