ROADWAY LIGHTING DESIGN

2.12 Maintenance Considerations in Roadway Lighting Design

2.13 Energy Efficient Roadway Lighting Opportunities and Benefits

2.14 Benefits of Effective Energy-Efficient Roadway Lighting Design

In Partial Fulfilment
Of the Requirements for the Course
EE 31 – Electrical System and Illumination Engineering Design

Submitted by:

Lopez, Jay
Onte, Paul Joevic
Taasan, Alixson
Teves, Jan Christian

Submitted to:

Engr. Roger Balderas, PEE

September 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS

2.12 Maintenance Considerations in Roadway Lighting Design…………………………….………….……1

Introduction…………………………………….…………………………………………………..………………...…1

2.12.1 Cleaning luminaires …………………………………………………………….……………………..…1

2.12.2 Lamp Replacement……………………………….………………………………………………..…..…4

2.12.3 Electrical Wiring Inspection………………………………………………………………..………...6

2.12.4 Measurement of Voltage Input……………………………………………………………………..9

2.13 Energy Efficient Roadway Lighting Opportunities and Benefits………………………………..……12

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………….……..………..12

2.13.1 Importance of Street Lights …………………………………………………………………....……13

2.13.2 Opportunities and Benefits……………………………………………………………………..…….13

2.13.3 LED Street Lighting..………….…………………………………………………………………………..14

2.13.4 Benefits of LED Street Lights…..………………………………………………………………..……15

2.14 Benefits of Effective Energy-Efficient Roadway Lighting Design……………………………………..18

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………….……18

2.14.1 Technology Advances………………………..…………………………………………………………..18

2.14.2 Benefits…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………….20

2.14.3 Street Lighting Upgrade and Payback …………………………….……………………………..21

References…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….23
2.12 MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS IN ROADWAY LIGHTING DESIGN

INTRODUCTION

A huge amount of money is invested for the design, procurement, installation,

operation and maintenance of street lighting. To sustain its value, there shall be a periodic
maintenance program to ensure the effectiveness of EE street lighting over time. Scope of the
maintenance program includes cleaning of the luminaire inclusive of the refractor/lens,
reflector, lamp, and control gear components, and replacement of the luminaire and/or the
lamp and component of the control system e.g. the photoelectric control, electrical wiring
inspection, and measurement of input voltage. The frequency of the maintenance activities
shall be based on the extent of pollution in which the roadway lighting facilities are subjected
to. It shall also take into consideration pedestrian/traffic safety, security, and economics.

LIST OF MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS IN ROADWAY LIGHTING DESIGN

2.12.1 Cleaning luminaires

Fig.2.12.1
Cleaning Luminaires

- The extent to which air-borne dirt and pollution reduce light output depends on the
effectiveness of the luminaire’s sealing (its IP rating) and the quality of the environment.
The likely loss from dirt and pollution should also be allowed for in the initial design.
- Maintenance considerations for cleaning luminaires in roadway lighting design are
essential to ensure the longevity, efficiency, and safety of the lighting system. Proper
cleaning practices can help maintain optimal light output and reduce the need for costly
replacements.

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Maintenance considerations for cleaning luminaires:

1. Regular Cleaning Schedule:

o Establish a routine cleaning schedule based on factors such as the local
environment, climate, and traffic density. High-traffic and dusty areas may
require more frequent cleaning.
2. Safety Precautions:
o Before starting any cleaning, ensure that the luminaires are safely
disconnected from the power source to prevent electrical hazards.
o Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and
safety glasses, to protect against potential hazards, such as broken glass or
chemicals in cleaning solutions.
3. Select the Right Cleaning Supplies:
o Use non-abrasive, lint-free materials for cleaning, such as microfiber cloths,
sponges, or soft brushes. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the
luminaire surfaces.
o Choose a cleaning solution that is suitable for the material of the luminaire
(e.g., glass, plastic, metal). A mild, non-abrasive, and non-corrosive cleaner
is often recommended.
4. Dust Removal:
o Begin the cleaning process by removing loose dust and dirt from the
luminaire. This can be done with a soft brush, compressed air, or a handheld
vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment.
5. Cleaning the Luminaire Surface:
o Dampen a clean, soft cloth or sponge with the chosen cleaning solution.
Ensure the cloth is not excessively wet to prevent water from entering the
luminaire.
o Gently wipe down the exterior surfaces of the luminaire, including the
housing, cover, and any glass or plastic components. Avoid getting cleaning
solution into electrical components.

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6. Removing Stubborn Stains:
o For persistent stains or residue, use a slightly more concentrated cleaning
solution or a specialized cleaner designed for the type of luminaire surface.
o Be gentle when scrubbing to avoid damaging the luminaire. Test any new
cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility.
7. Cleaning Lenses or Diffusers:
o If the luminaire has lenses or diffusers, remove them (if possible) and clean
them separately following the same principles.
o Ensure that lenses or diffusers are completely dry before reassembling
them.
8. Inspect for Damage and Wear:
o While cleaning, visually inspect the luminaire for signs of damage, wear, or
corrosion. Pay attention to seals, gaskets, and electrical connections.
Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
9. Dry Thoroughly:
o After cleaning, use a dry, lint-free cloth to thoroughly dry all parts of the
luminaire. Moisture inside the fixture can lead to electrical issues and
corrosion.
10. Reconnect and Test:
o Once the luminaire is completely dry, reconnect it to the power source, turn
it on, and verify that it functions correctly. Check that the light output is
consistent with expectations.
11. Documentation:
o Maintain records of cleaning activities, including dates, products used, and
any observations about the luminaire's condition. This documentation can
help with future maintenance planning.

Conclusion:

By following these maintenance considerations for cleaning luminaires in roadway

lighting design, you can ensure that the lighting system continues to perform effectively,
efficiently, and safely. Regular cleaning contributes to the overall maintenance and reliability of
the roadway lighting infrastructure.

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2.12.2 Lamp Replacement

Fig.2.12.2 Lamp Replacement

- Lamps gradually give less light output also known as “lamp light depreciation” as they
age. In any large number or sample of lamps installed there will be a fraction which fails
prematurely.
- In roadway lighting and other lighting systems, two major approaches to lamp
replacement are spot relamping and group relamping. Each approach has its
advantages and considerations, and the choice between them often depends on factors
such as the type of lighting system, maintenance resources, and budget constraints.

Two (2) major approaches to lamp replacement:

1. Spot Relamping:
o In spot relamping or individual replacement involves replacing lamps on an
individual basis as they fail or reach the end of their rated lifespan. When a
lamp burns out or becomes less efficient, it is replaced with a new one.
o Advantages:
➢ Minimizes immediate upfront costs since only failing lamps are
replaced.
➢ Efficient use of maintenance resources, as only the lamps that
require replacement are addressed.
➢ Allows for the use of lamps until they reach the end of their useful
life, maximizing the return on investment.
o Considerations:
➢ Requires frequent monitoring and maintenance to identify and
replace failing lamps promptly.

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➢ Can result in uneven lighting conditions as lamps deteriorate at
different rates.
➢ May lead to increased operational and maintenance costs over the
long term due to frequent replacements.

2. Group Relamping:
o In group relamping or scheduled replacement involves replacing all lamps
within a specified group or area simultaneously, typically on a
predetermined schedule or when a certain percentage of lamps have
reached the end of their rated life.
o Advantages:
➢ Promotes uniform lighting conditions by ensuring that all lamps in a
specific area are replaced at the same time.
➢ Reduces maintenance workload and costs related to frequent spot
replacements.
➢ Simplifies maintenance planning and scheduling.
o Considerations:
➢ Requires a larger upfront investment since all lamps in the group are
replaced simultaneously.
➢ Lamps may not be used until they reach their maximum rated
lifespan, potentially leading to some lamps being replaced
prematurely.
➢ Planning and coordination are essential to minimize disruptions,
especially in large-scale relamping projects.

Conclusion:

Choosing between spot relamping and group relamping depends on several factors,
including the type of lighting system, budget constraints, and maintenance resources. In some
cases, a combination of both approaches may be employed to balance the advantages of each
method. For example, spot relamping may be used for critical or high-visibility areas, while
group relamping is scheduled for less critical or lower-traffic areas.

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Ultimately, the goal is to maintain a safe and efficient lighting system while optimizing the
use of resources and minimizing disruptions. The choice between spot and group relamping
should be based on a careful assessment of these factors and the specific needs of the lighting
application.

2.12.3 Electrical Wiring Inspection

Fig.2.12.3
Electrical Wiring Inspection

- All internal and external wiring installations shall be inspected to check for broken or
cracked terminal lugs, frayed or deteriorated conductor insulations, and tightness of
screws and loose connections. Loose electrical connection may cause overheating and
damaged to the lighting system.
- Electrical wiring inspection is a critical maintenance consideration in roadway lighting
design to ensure the safety, functionality, and longevity of the lighting system. Proper
inspection practices help identify potential issues, prevent electrical hazards, and
maintain reliable illumination.

Maintenance considerations for electrical wiring inspection in roadway lighting design:

1. Safety Precautions:
o Prioritize safety by ensuring that the lighting system is de-energized before
conducting any electrical inspections. This involves turning off the power

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supply to the lighting circuits and locking out/tagging out electrical panels
or disconnects.
o Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated
gloves and safety glasses, when handling electrical components.
2. Regular Inspection Schedule:
o Establish a routine inspection schedule based on industry standards,
manufacturer recommendations, and local regulations. Factors like climate
and environmental conditions can influence the frequency of inspections.
3. Visual Inspection:
o Begin with a visual inspection of the electrical wiring, including cables,
conduits, junction boxes, and connections. Look for signs of wear, damage,
corrosion, or overheating.
o Check for loose or exposed wires, frayed insulation, and evidence of pest
damage or nesting.
4. Thermal Imaging:
o Utilize thermal imaging cameras to detect overheating in electrical
components. Hotspots can indicate loose connections or excessive current
flow, which may lead to failure or fire hazards.
5. Voltage and Current Testing:
o Measure voltage and current levels to ensure they are within the specified
operating range. Abnormal readings may indicate issues with power supply
or distribution.
6. Measure voltage and current levels to ensure Grounding Inspection: ]
o Verify the integrity of grounding systems, as proper grounding is essential
for electrical safety and lightning protection.
o Check grounding electrodes, connections, and grounding conductors for
corrosion and damage.
7. Connection Tightness:
o Inspect and tighten electrical connections, including wire terminations,
terminals, and wire nuts. Loose connections can cause voltage drops,
overheating, and operational problems.
8. Corrosion Prevention:

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o Apply anti-corrosion treatments or coatings to electrical components in
corrosive environments, such as coastal areas where salt spray is prevalent.
9. Cable Condition:
o Examine the condition of electrical cables, paying attention to insulation
integrity and cable support. Replace damaged or deteriorating cables
promptly.
10. Seal and Weatherproofing:
o Ensure that all outdoor electrical enclosures, junction boxes, and
connections are properly sealed and weatherproofed to prevent water
ingress and corrosion.
11. Documentation:
o Maintain comprehensive records of electrical wiring inspections, including
inspection dates, findings, actions taken, and any necessary repairs or
replacements. Proper documentation aids in tracking maintenance history
and planning future maintenance activities.
12. Qualified Personnel:
o Electrical inspections should be conducted by qualified and certified
electricians or maintenance personnel with the necessary expertise and
training.
13. Code Compliance:
o Ensure that all electrical work and components comply with local electrical
codes and regulations.
14. Emergency Procedures:
o Develop and communicate emergency procedures for handling electrical
failures, fires, or other safety incidents.

Conclusion:

Effective electrical wiring inspection is crucial for the safe and reliable operation of
roadway lighting systems. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance practices help
prevent electrical failures, reduce downtime, and enhance the overall performance of the
lighting infrastructure.

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2.12.4 Measurement of Voltage Input

Fig.2.12.2
Measuring Voltage Using Multimeter

- Measurement should be conducted to determine input voltage to the luminaire. The

required voltage input is necessary for all the electrical components of the luminaires
(e. g., ballast, driver, and ignitor) to operate properly. Lower voltage input may damage
the luminaire prematurely (shorter lifetime).
- Measuring the voltage input is a critical maintenance consideration in roadway lighting
design to ensure the proper functioning and safety of the lighting system. Monitoring
voltage levels helps identify potential issues, prevent electrical hazards, and maintain
consistent illumination.

Maintenance considerations for measuring voltage input in roadway lighting design:

1. Safety Precautions:
o Prioritize safety by ensuring that the lighting system is de-energized before
conducting any voltage measurements. This involves turning off the power
supply to the lighting circuits and locking out/tagging out electrical panels
or disconnects.
o Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated
gloves and safety glasses, when handling electrical components.
2. Regular Voltage Measurements:
o Establish a routine schedule for measuring voltage input to the lighting
system. This schedule should align with industry standards, manufacturer
recommendations, and local regulations. Factors such as voltage

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fluctuations, environmental conditions, and the criticality of the roadway
may influence the frequency of measurements.
3. Voltage Meter Selection:
o Use a high-quality digital multimeter (DMM) or voltmeter designed for
measuring alternating current (AC) voltage within the lighting system's
voltage range.
4. Measurement Points:
o Identify appropriate measurement points within the lighting system. These
typically include connections at the electrical panel, distribution points, and
fixture terminals.
5. Steady-State Measurement:
o Measure voltage under steady-state conditions when the lighting system is
operating normally. This provides baseline data for comparison during
subsequent inspections.
6. Load Conditions:
o Measure voltage input during peak load conditions, such as during nighttime
operation when all lighting fixtures are on. This ensures that voltage levels
remain within acceptable limits when the system is under heavy load.
7. Voltage Tolerance:
o Refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the lighting fixtures to
determine the acceptable voltage range for proper operation. Voltage levels
should fall within this range.
8. Voltage Fluctuation:
o Monitor voltage fluctuations and transient events, such as surges or sags,
which can affect the performance and lifespan of lighting fixtures and
related equipment.
9. Record Keeping:
o Maintain thorough records of voltage measurements, including the date,
time, location, voltage readings, and any deviations from expected values.
o Compare current voltage measurements with historical data to identify
trends or deviations that may require corrective action.

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10. Troubleshooting:
o If voltage measurements indicate issues such as voltage drop or
irregularities, conduct further troubleshooting to pinpoint the source of the
problem. Potential causes could include damaged wiring, loose connections,
or inadequate power supply capacity.
11. Corrective Actions:
o Address any voltage-related issues promptly through necessary repairs or
adjustments. This may involve fixing loose connections, replacing damaged
components, or upgrading power supply infrastructure.
12. Qualified Personnel:
o Voltage measurements should be conducted by qualified and certified
electricians or maintenance personnel with the expertise to safely and
accurately measure and interpret voltage data.

Conclusion:

Monitoring and measuring voltage input is an essential part of proactive maintenance

for roadway lighting systems. Consistent and appropriate voltage levels are critical for the safety
and effectiveness of the lighting infrastructure, and regular measurements help identify and
address potential problems before they lead to operational issues or equipment damage.

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2.13 ENERGY EFFICIENT ROADWAY LIGHTING OPPORTUNITIES AND BENEFITS

INTRODUCTION

Roadway Lighting have been an integral part of urban infrastructure for decades. They
are installed in cities, towns, and villages to provide visibility, safety, and security during
nighttime hours. Traditional street lights have typically used high-pressure sodium lamps or
other conventional lighting technologies.

Effective energy-efficient street lighting uses a balance of proper energy- efficient

technologies and design layout to meet performance, aesthetic and energy criteria required by
pedestrians, motorists, community residents, municipalities and utilities.

Today, most street lighting is selected based solely on providing a recommended

amount of light to a roadway, or as is the case with many business district improvement
projects, that need to meet architectural requirements, the general style of the pole and fixture
is important. Effective energy-efficient street lighting design integrates efficient lamp
technologies, optimum pole placement, efficient fixture photometrics (light distribution), and
aesthetics while using the least amount of energy and meeting various requirements for
visibility and appropriate light levels.

For example, Table 1 shows five street lighting options that provide similar lighting
quantity to the road, but the lighting quality and costs differ. Consider the following:

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▪ The Mercury Cobrahead option is a typical initial low-cost, inefficient light source.
Notice it uses a 400W bulb (consuming more energy) compared to the other lower
wattage options, plus its total annualized cost is high.
▪ The Metal Halide Cobrahead and Metal Halide Cutoff options are more efficient and
have a lower annual cost. The Cutoff option better controls the light and reduces light
trespass (extraneous light on adjacent property).
▪ The most energy-efficient and highest quality option (in terms of light
control, distribution and color rendering) is the Metal Halide Cutoff. Note, pulse-start
metal halide (PSMH) lamps provide even greater energy efficiency compared to
standard metal halide.
▪ The Metal Halide Post Top option is a more decorative option with a lower mounting
height that requires more posts, thus the higher costs. Because it uses lower lamp
wattage it may help meet design needs such as reduced glare.
▪ The High Pressure Sodium Cutoff system is the most energy efficient and will often
require fewer poles, thus resulting in lower energy and maintenance costs. However,
the color properties of high pressure sodium are only fair and should only be used when
color rendering is not critical.

2.13.1 Importance of Street Lights

- Street lights are not just a luxury; they are a necessity for modern society. They play a
crucial role in improving the quality of life for people by providing illumination in public
spaces, promoting safety and security, and enabling various outdoor activities at night.
Street lights also enhance the aesthetics of urban areas, making them more inviting and
attractive.

2.13.2 Opportunities and Benefits

- Existing street lighting installations can often be upgraded or improved. However,

upgrades to existing systems generally do not take place until a larger capital
improvement project is planned. Still, with some inefficient systems, such as those using
mercury vapor lamps, upgrading to more efficient technologies can often pay back
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through energy savings. New, renovated or relocated street lighting installations offer
the greatest opportunities given that efficient designs and technologies can easily be
integrated into the plan.
- Effective energy-efficient street lighting installations offer the following opportunities
and benefits to municipalities, drivers, pedestrians and taxpayers. Planners and
engineers need to understand these opportunities and benefits to help develop a
holistic approach to street lighting design, and help convey effective energy-efficient
street lighting principals to municipal officials and decision makers.
- With advancements in lighting technology, LED street lights have gained popularity due
to their energy efficiency, longevity, and other benefits. In this topic, we will explore the
various advantages of LED street lights and why they are becoming the preferred choice
for outdoor lighting.

2.13.3 LED Street Lighting

Fig.2.13.3
LED Steet Lighting

- LEDs feature in a lot of lighting solutions. With commercial interior lighting, spaces such
as offices and retail shops greatly benefit from the bright, even light produced by LED
lamps as they have a positive effect on productivity while keeping energy use low. And
large-scale exterior lighting solutions in parking lots and even stadiums benefit from the
energy-saving, low maintenance requirements of LEDs, making them perfect for light
poles and high-mast fixtures that require crane truck services and specialty equipment
to maintain.

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- One area in which LEDs are continuing to grow in popularity is the use in roadways and
street lights. Among just some of the benefits of LEDs, their bright, wide light pattern
creates safer conditions for drivers and pedestrians, and there is even some evidence
to suggest they help reduce light pollution.
- The advent of LED technology, there has been a significant shift towards LED street
lights, it has gained popularity due to their energy efficiency, longevity, and other
benefits.

2.13.4 Benefits of LED Street Lights

LED street lights offer several advantages over traditional lighting technologies. Let's
take a closer look at some of the key benefits:

• Energy Efficiency - LED street lights are highly energy-efficient compared to

conventional lighting technologies. They consume significantly less electricity and can
result in substantial energy savings. LED street lights use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as
the light source, which convert almost all of the energy into light, minimizing wastage.
This makes LED street lights an eco-friendly lighting option that can help reduce
electricity consumption and lower energy costs.
• Cost Savings - Although LED street lights may have a higher upfront cost compared to
traditional street lights, they offer long-term cost savings. The energy efficiency of LED
street lights results in reduced electricity bills, leading to lower operational costs over
time. Additionally, LED street lights have a longer lifespan compared to conventional
lighting technologies, which translates into reduced maintenance and replacement
costs. This makes LED street lights a cost-effective lighting solution in the long run.
• Longevity - LED street lights are known for their long lifespan, which is significantly
higher than traditional lighting technologies. LED street lights can last up to 10 times
longer than conventional street lights, reducing the frequency of replacements and
maintenance. This not only saves costs but also reduces the inconvenience of frequent
replacements, making LED street lights a durable and reliable lighting option.
• Environmentally Friendly - LED street lights are environmentally friendly compared to
traditional lighting technologies. They do not contain harmful substances such as

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mercury, which is commonly found in traditional lighting sources like fluorescent lamps.
LED street lights also do not emit harmful UV rays, making them safe for the
environment and human health. Additionally, LED street lights are recyclable and
contribute to reducing electronic waste, making them a sustainable lighting solution.

• Enhanced Safety and Security - One of the key benefits of LED street lights is their ability
to enhance safety and security in public spaces. Well-lit streets, roads, and pathways
can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, improve pedestrian and vehicular visibility,
and deter criminal activities. LED street lights provide bright and uniform illumination,
ensuring that roads and public spaces are well-lit, making them safer for pedestrians
and drivers alike. Well-lit areas also discourage vandalism and other criminal activities,
enhancing overall security in the community.
• Improved Visibility - LED street lights offer superior visibility compared to traditional
lighting technologies. They produce a bright and clear illumination that enhances
visibility during nighttime, improving road safety and reducing the risk of accidents. LED
street lights also have a high color rendering index (CRI), which means that they render
colors more accurately compared to other lighting sources. This is especially important
for outdoor areas where color recognition is crucial, such as in parking lots or public
spaces.
• Reduced Light Pollution - Light pollution is a growing concern in urban areas, where
excessive artificial lighting can have negative impacts on the environment and human
health. LED street lights are designed to minimize light pollution by directing the light
downward and reducing the amount of wasted light that disperses into the sky. This
helps to preserve natural darkness, protect wildlife habitats, and reduce the disruption
of natural ecosystems. LED street lights also allow for better control of light intensity
and direction, which further helps in minimizing light pollution and creating a more
sustainable lighting solution.
• Maintenance and Durability - LED street lights are known for their low maintenance
requirements and high durability. They have a longer lifespan compared to traditional
lighting technologies, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance. This
translates into cost savings and reduced disruption of normal operations. LED street

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lights are also resistant to shock, vibration, and extreme weather conditions, making
them highly durable and reliable in various outdoor environments.
• Different Applications of LED Street - Lights LED Street lights have a wide range of
applications beyond just illuminating roads and public spaces. They are increasingly
being used in various outdoor lighting applications, including:
o Parking lots: LED street lights provide bright and uniform illumination for
parking lots, ensuring visibility and safety for drivers and pedestrians.
o Parks and recreational areas: LED street lights enhance the safety and
aesthetics of parks and recreational areas, making them inviting for evening
activities.
o Residential areas: LED street lights are used in residential areas for better
visibility and security, creating well-lit and safe neighborhoods. Commercial
and industrial areas: LED street lights are used in commercial and industrial
areas for improved visibility, safety, and security for workers and visitors.

Conclusion:

LED street lights offer numerous benefits, including energy efficiency, cost savings,
longevity, environmental friendliness, enhanced safety and security, improved visibility,
reduced light pollution, and low maintenance requirements. Their versatility and effectiveness
in various outdoor lighting applications make them a preferred choice for modern street
lighting solutions. As cities and communities continue to prioritize sustainability, safety, and
efficiency, LED street lights are likely to become even more widespread in the future.

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2.14 BENEFITS OF EFFECTIVE ENERGY-EFFICIENT ROADWAY LIGHTING DESIGN

INTRODUCTION

Municipalities generally install street lighting for practical reasons, and sometimes
simply for aesthetics. A municipal elected/appointed official should understand the reasons for
street lighting in order to convey the important needs of the project to budget committees,
other officials and the public. Several reasons for installing street lighting are:

▪ To increase perception of safety and security.

▪ To reduce vehicular accidents.
▪ To improve pedestrian visibility.
▪ To increase commerce.
▪ To help create a particular architectural “look” or style.
▪ To illuminate building facades and enhance surrounding architectural details.
▪ To respond to public demand.

It is also worth noting that in some instances, in particular when issues of glare, light
trespass, or light pollution are of significant importance, it can be appropriate not to install
street lighting at all. This can be true particularly in some rural or suburban areas where
vehicular traffic is light and where residents' quality of life is enhanced by a relatively dark
environment that maximizes the view of the nighttime sky. Similarly, some street lighting
projects might consist of eliminating or reducing the use of lighting in certain areas.

2.14.1 TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES

The science of street lighting design has dramatically improved in recent years. In
addition to better light sources and optical systems to effectively deliver light to the road
surface, researchers have conducted numerous studies to better understand the human visual
response to different types of electric lighting at nighttime.

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Common Characteristics of Well-Designed, Effective Energy-Efficient Street Lighting Systems:

▪ Color Rendering Quality - Current metal halide lamps have better color properties than
older mercury vapor lamps and high-pressure sodium lamps. They render objects more
colorful, pleasing and distinguishable to motorists, pedestrians and business owners.
Color rendering is very important in business districts where pedestrians, business
owners and shoppers want colors to look natural. Furthermore, current research
indicates that motorists have better peripheral visibility under metal halide compared
to high pressure sodium lamps, at the same light level.
▪ Energy Efficiency - Many lamps (light bulbs) available today are much more energy-
efficient than their predecessors. However, street lighting departments still commonly
use lamps and technologies originally designed and installed 30 or more years ago.
▪ Optical Control - Over the past couple decades, optical materials, design and
manufacturing processes have made high-quality fixtures possible. Using computer-
aided design, the optics of a fixture can be designed to maximize light reaching the road
surface while minimizing unwanted and sometimes troublesome glare, light trespass,
and light pollution.
▪ Non-cycling Lamps - Many older lamps (bulbs) will not simply burn out, they will cycle
on and off. This cycling often results in several maintenance calls because the failing
bulb cannot readily be identified if it happens to be lit when the crew visits the street.
Today, non-cycling lamps that extinguish when they have reached the end of their useful
life are available. This results in fewer maintenance calls and cost savings.
▪ Long Life Lamps - There are more lamp options available today, many with longer life
than commonly available lamps. Current state-of-the-art technology such as
electrodeless lamps offer lamp life up to 60,000 hours (12 yrs). Thus, maintenance
savings can be substantial.
▪ Cost Savings - Municipalities can save on energy, utility lease, installation, and
maintenance costs by selecting the right street lighting technology and properly
designing the layout.

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2.14.2 BENEFITS OF EFFECTIVE ENERGY-EFFICIENT ROADWAY LIGHTING DESIGN

▪ Energy savings – Through use of efficient technologies and design practices, excess
energy usage can be avoided. As previously shown in Table 1, converting from mercury
vapor to more efficient lamps such as metal halide, or using fixtures that are efficient
and spaced properly can reduce energy costs.
▪ Capital cost savings – Using the proper spacing and placement can reduce the capital
costs because more efficient systems can use fewer poles and luminaires.
▪ Maintenance cost savings – Using lamps with longer lives and layouts with proper
spacing and placement means reduced costs for fixing 'burnouts' and painting or
replacing damaged poles, resulting in lower annualized costs even when initial capital
costs are more expensive.
▪ Improved sense of security – Selection of efficient equipment and incorporating proper
design can make an area appear safer and more secure, and in some cases can assist in
reducing crime, without increasing light levels. In fact, light levels that are too high will
not make an area seem safer. Direct glare and high light levels can reduce perceptions
of safety by making visibility more difficult. Attention to uniformity (even light
distribution on the horizontal surface) and vertical illuminance (light distribution on the
vertical surface of buildings and people) can add to a person’s sense of security.
▪ Evenly lit roads and sidewalks – Using good design can improve visibility by avoiding
overly bright and dark patches on roads and walkways.
▪ Reduced glare and improved visibility – Overly high light levels often create unwanted
glare that decreases visibility. Careful selection of fixtures and lamps that enhance
visibility can improve detection of pedestrians by drivers and increase seeing distances
beyond those provided by automotive headlights alone.
▪ Aesthetically pleasing – Fixtures with historic appearance can be combined with
excellent optics to provide quality performance and attractive daytime appearance.
▪ Economic development – Communities throughout the state and country see street
lighting as an important part of improving economic development efforts in
downtowns.

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2.14.3 STREET LIGHTING UPGRADE AND PAYBACK

Suppose a town whose lighting equipment, as well as, electrical service is provided by the
utility wishes to replace 24 post top luminaires each containing a 175-watt mercury lamp and
ballast. The new luminaires contain 100-watt high pressure sodium lamps and ballasts. Utility
tariffs generally take into account the overall useful life of equipment, so the town might have
to pay a fraction of the cost of the older luminaires if they want to upgrade luminaires before
their useful life is completed. This is assumed to be half the original cost of the luminaires for
this example, with a resulting up-front project cost $2,040. However, the reduction in energy
use will save the town about $570 each year in reduced electricity charges, with a payback
period of a little more than 3½ years:

• Depreciated cost of old luminaires: $85/luminaire × 24 luminaires = $2,040

• Reduction in energy costs: $2,573 (original system) - $2,002 (new system) = $571
• Simple payback: $2,040/$571 = 3.6 years

Suppose the town was going to switch to a system with luminaires containing 100-watt
metal halide lamp/ballast systems, which provide better color rendering. This system would
have slightly different operating costs and result in a slightly longer payback period:

• Depreciated cost of old luminaires: $85/luminaire × 24 luminaires = $2,040

• Reduction in energy costs: $2,573 (original system) - $2,139 (new system) = $434
• Simple payback: $2,040/$434 = 4.7 years

Example:

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- In Graz there are 24.000 light spots. Electricity consumption is around 8,5 Mio kWh per
year which equals 1,1 Mio Euro. Maintenance cost is 1,7 Mio Euro. Assuming the
average life span to be 24 years, 1000 fixtures have to be replaced every year.
- Grazer Energieagentur has developed a so called “Thermoprofit”- scheme and
implemented a pilot project. The purpose was to replace 720 luminaires and lamps by
highly efficient units.
- Grazer Energieagentur acts as an ESCO and is responsible for general management-
design, financing, contract negotiations, controlling, guarantees and public relations.
The local utility, usually doing service and maintenance, was responsible for
construction work and for the European wide tender for the luminaires. Duration of the
contracting is 15 years. The measures are paid for by the savings achieved. Moreover
there is a financial benefit for the city of Graz right from the start in the amount of
28.600 Euro. Electricity consumption is reduced by 530.000 kWh per year or 58%, which
equals 65.000 Euro.

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REFERENCES

DOE, 2008. Roadway Lighting Guidelines. Department of Energy. Retrieved from

https://www.doe.gov.ph/sites/default/files/pdf/energy_efficiency/doe-road-light-
2017.pdf

LEDMyplace, 2023. What Are the Benefits of Street Lights?. Retrieved from
https://www.ledmyplace.com/blogs/stories/what-are-the-benefits-of-street-lights

Radocha et al., No date. Energy Efficiency in Streetlighting and Transport Infrastructure.

Intelligent Energy Europe. Retrieved from
https://www.eltis.org/sites/default/files/Competence_reference_material_urbandesi
gn_en_6.pdf

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