Leicestershire County Council (LCC) faced significant challenges with its initial part-night photocell approach, which aimed to save money by reducing energy consumption in streetlighting. This method proved contentious and logistically problematic, particularly when reverting large areas to all-night lighting was necessary, leading to substantial costs and public dissatisfaction. The need for a more flexible, cost-effective, and less intrusive solution became evident as LCC sought to balance energy efficiency with public safety and satisfaction.
In response to these challenges, LCC adopted Telensa’s ‘PLANet’ Public Lighting Central Management System (CMS). This advanced system allows for granular and group adjustments to lighting profiles, accommodating both long-term changes to lighting policy and real-time community and emergency needs. The CMS’s capabilities were demonstrated effectively during emergencies, such as the immediate reinstatement of all-night lighting following the Birstall gas explosion, whilst the surrounding neighbourhood was completely evacuated Furthermore, the system supports sophisticated dimming schedules based on traffic levels and area-specific requirements, significantly enhancing streetlight management efficiency.
Key Phases of the Initiative:
The outcomes of this initiative are demonstrated most clearly in the significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions over the years. From a baseline of 15,581 tCO2e in 2008-09, emissions from streetlighting and traffic signals have been dramatically reduced to 2,009 tCO2e by 2022-23. This progression shows a consistent decrease, with recent years recording:
These results are particularly remarkable considering the number of streetlights has increased each year, demonstrating the effectiveness of the technological advancements and strategic management applied by the council. The continual addition of streetlights while still achieving reductions in emissions exemplifies a successful balance between expanding infrastructure needs and sustainability goals.
Through the implementation of LED upgrades and Telensa’s smart streetlighting system, Leicestershire County Council achieved:
This project not only delivered substantial benefits in terms of cost savings and environmental impact but also demonstrated the effectiveness of Telensa’s technology in transforming urban infrastructure to meet modern demands.
