Public lighting in Ireland uses approximately 150 GWh of energy and emits of 80,000 tonnes of CO2. Several local authorities, actively engaged in energy management, are already achieving substantial savings. The Public Lighting Working Group has already helped other local authorities in their efforts to comfortably achieve savings of 20% to 30%. Energy Use in Public Lighting.There are an estimated 400,000 Street lights in Ireland consuming an estimated 150 TWh annually. Potential Energy Savings of €6-€10 Million Nationally.There are several technology and management upgrade opportunities that can substantially reduce that 150 TWh consumption. - Initial estimates indicate a potential 22% energy savings using currently available technology, rising to 30% for authorities who have not actively managed lighting. This equates to a potential saving of €6-€10 Million Nationally.
- Capitalisation of energy performance contracting where supplier is paid for light delivered rather than energy, driving efficiency.
- Trimming (reduced operating hours) and Dimming (reduced lighting levels at low traffic densities).
- Improve housekeeping, addressing outdated technologies (MBF – mercury based lighting) or excess lighting levels not managed appropriately.
- Further technology upgrades available including electronic ballasts (with a typical 4 year payback)
- Roll out of energy efficiency pilot projects at a national level.
- Capitalise on current changes of suppliers in market.
- Large amounts of lighting infrastructure located in remote locations with electricity network available to connect medium scale renewable generation.
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