Declining Efficiency in Eller: Investigation Uncovers Energy Problems
Düsseldorf to Transition Thousands of Gas Lamps to Energy-Efficient LED Operation
In a move towards energy efficiency and sustainability, the city of Düsseldorf has set up demonstration sections to showcase the transition from traditional gas lamps to energy-efficient electric operation. The demonstration zones, located in Eller, allow residents and visitors to visualize the change and compare the new, converted lamp models with existing gas lamps, some of which are protected under heritage conservation.
Four street sections, situated close to each other, have been selected for the demonstration stretches. Here, four different converted lamp models can be reached on foot and compared with neighboring, non-converted gas lamps. The street lighting in these areas will be permanent after conversion.
The city council made the decision to convert previously gas-operated lamps to energy-efficient electric operation with LED technology in September 2023. As of now, approximately 13,600 gas lamps are still in operation, and it is planned to retain the outer shell of about 11,840 gas lamps. The remaining lamps in the Hofgarten park will continue to be operated with gas.
The planned LED conversion sets are controllable, dimmable, and meet current technical standards for energy-efficient and sustainable street lighting. The cast iron posts of the 'Alt Düsseldorf' model can be largely restored, while the steel tube posts of other models will be replicated to resemble today's posts in terms of stepped and diameter form.
For heritage areas, the city aims to convert around 2,000 street lamps per year, subject to heritage conservation approval.
The energy-efficient LED conversion project in Düsseldorf is part of a broader trend in cities globally, where large-scale conversions of gas lamps to LED technology are being implemented. Timelines for such projects typically range from a few months to several years, depending on factors like funding availability and local regulations. To ensure that the conversion respects the cultural heritage of the area, designers might opt for LED lamps that mimic the appearance of traditional gas lamps, and employ materials that can preserve original structures. Smart lighting systems, incorporating renewable energy sources, and adjusting brightness based on natural light availability or pedestrian traffic, could further optimize energy efficiency.
With the city's commitment to sustainability, they are planning to transition approximately 11,840 gas lamps to energy-efficient LED technology, starting in 2023. This shift in street lighting, using LED technology, is part of a global trend in environmental-science and technology, aiming to create greener and energy-efficient cities.
