When considering the typically mundane streetlight, one seldom reflects on the complex web of planning, technology, and effort involved in illuminating a city. For Milton Keynes, the recent transformation of 18,000 public lights to energy-efficient LEDs signifies more than a mere technical enhancement; it marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. In a recent discussion with Jonathan Watt, a project manager at Ringway, the service provider overseeing this ambitious endeavour, the scope and impact of this project came into sharp focus.
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Milton Keynes has long been a trailblazer in forward-thinking urban development. As Jonathan emphasised, “The city council’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and becoming carbon negative by 2050 necessitated substantial changes. Upgrading the public lighting infrastructure was an essential component of this vision.” The project began in 2014 with the initial phase of transitioning to low-energy LEDs. However, it was not until 2022, amidst escalating energy prices, that the council decided to significantly expand and expedite the programme. This decision led to the selection of Signify, previously known as Philips Lighting, as the preferred lighting partner.
The magnitude of this undertaking is noteworthy. Jonathan detailed the extensive upgrade, stating, “We replaced approximately 18,000 outdated HID lanterns with Philips LumiStreet Gen2 and LumiStreet ECO LED lanterns along roads and footpaths. Additionally, we installed 1,800 Philips TownTune urban decorative LED luminaires in car parks, pedestrian walkways, and cycle paths.” The choice of Philips luminaires was meticulously considered. “The technical specifications, projected cost savings, and carbon emission reductions were paramount,” Jonathan noted. “Furthermore, Signify’s reputation as a responsible supplier was a decisive factor in their selection.”
The advantages of this upgrade are manifold. Jonathan elaborated, “The new LED lights consume up to 70% less energy compared to the old HID lights. This translates to an annual saving of over 5 million kWh in energy consumption and approximately £2 million in energy costs.” These savings are not mere projections. “The reduction in ongoing energy costs is expected to offset the project’s total expense within eight years,” Jonathan highlighted. “This represents a remarkable return on investment for the city.”
Beyond the financial and environmental benefits, the upgrade aims to enhance the overall experience for citizens and visitors. “The new LED lights provide superior visibility for motorists and pedestrians,” Jonathan explained. “They also enhance the quality of security camera footage, which bolsters safety and acts as a deterrent to criminal activity.” The LED lights are also programmable, thanks to Telensa’s cloud-based Central Monitoring System (CMS). “This system allows us to control the street lighting assets remotely, driving further energy savings,” Jonathan remarked. “We can activate the lights only when necessary, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance requirements.”
However, a project of this scale does not come without its challenges. “Coordinating the installation across the city was a logistical challenge,” Jonathan admitted. “We had to ensure minimal disruption to daily life while replacing such a significant number of lights.” Despite these obstacles, the project has been met with resounding success. “Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” Jonathan reported. “Residents appreciate the improved visibility and the city’s commitment to sustainability.”
As our discussion concluded, Jonathan reflected on the broader implications of the project. “This upgrade is a significant step towards Milton Keynes’ sustainability goals,” he stated. “It’s about more than just energy savings; it’s about creating a city that future generations can be proud of.” The journey of Milton Keynes towards a sustainable future is a testament to what can be achieved with vision, careful planning, and the right partnerships. As the city continues to light its way forward, it stands as an exemplar for other urban centres striving to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace sustainable practices.
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