UdZ 01.21

© FIR Initial Situation Due to their omnipresence in public spaces, street lamps are virtually predestined to take on other functions in addition to lighting. ‘Smartification’ opens up a wide range of possibilities in this scenario: Street lights equipped with sensors enable traffic flow monitoring, and, in conjunction with additional information on traffic conditions and road works, allow traffic control to be implemented. This is achieved via LED rings attached to street lamps at relevant locations. Other applications can be identified in the area of safety. Particularly at danger points and in pedestrian zones, sensor technology, moving lights and automatic noise detection help to initiate safety measures in the event of unusual incidents. For example, the lights can be automatically turned up if an accident is detected, and the police control center notified to give citizens a better sense of security. As part of the conversion to LED lighting and the connection of street lights to a control center, the Aachen-based electric utility provider STAWAG intends to evaluate possible digitalization opportunities and prepare for forward-looking use cases. By establishing a smart streetlight network, e.g. through the use of networking technologies such as LoRaWAN, a platform for new applications shall be created to enable both cost-reduced, efficient operation and the development and implementation of innovative business models. The smartification of streetlights offers enormous potential as a key element of a smart city. Streetlights are part of the supporting infrastructure and an essential component of urban development efforts. As with all urban infrastructure projects, it is key to closely involve the various stakeholders of urban society in the planning and implementation process. ›› Guided by a strategic long-term goal, the development of a step-by-step roadmap including pilot projects that can be implemented in the short term enables us to take a structured approach in the context of street lighting on the path towards the Smart City. ‹‹ Max Dern, Innovationsmanager, Stadtwerke Aachen AG (STAWAG) Foto: © jotily – stock.adobe.com Stadtwerke Aachen AG (STAWAG) Development of a Platform Concept for Intelligent Street Lights www.fir.de FIR Success Story