Alternative operation methods to reduce the energy demand of a traffic light controlled pedestrian crossing

Abstract

Traffic light controlled pedestrian crossings are implemented to ensure the safety of pedestrians. This paper presents two methods to reduce the energy consumption of a traffic light system implemented to control the pedestrian crossing. Energy saving is gained by means of new operating sequences for the traffic lamps. Analytical results are presented to compare the energy saving achieved with alternative methods, when compared with standard operating method. Energy storage capacity reduction, when the traffic light system is powered by a photovoltaic panel, is also presented.