Modernization of existing street lighting systems in small settlements

Abstract

The report outlines good engineering practices to reduce street lighting (SL) costs following the latest unexpected electricity price hike in Europe. The first measure was to reduce energy consumption for street lighting at night - by switching the lights to lower power when traffic is low. The second measure is the prevention of energy theft from SL lines in settlements remote from the municipal center. The last measure requires more time, but is very promising - construction of photovoltaic power plants (PVPP) on municipal buildings for the needs of SL. An energy payment model is applied, which is advantageous for both parties (Electricity Distribution Company/EDC/ and the Municipality) - the energy purchased by the municipality for SL at night is at the same price at which the EDC buys the energy produced by the municipal PV power plants during the day.