In July 2020, a Selux smart city pilot system was commissioned in front of the headquarters of energy provider EVL in Leverkusen. A Lif light column replete with various additional smart city modules and two Avanza luminaires along with an intelligent infrastructure now offer much more than just optimal light quality.

Better orientation, more information and greater security – the potential for networked technologies that increase quality of life in today’s cities is huge. More and more municipal authorities are recognizing the opportunities offered by digitalisation. The smart city of Solingen is already a trailblazer in Germany when it comes to developing intelligent street lighting and now the neighbouring city of Leverkusen is following its example. As part of a smart city concept, EVL, which is responsible for the operation of street lighting in the city, has developed a multifunctional test system with additional smart services.

In the parking area on Overfeldweg in front of the EVL headquarters, existing lighting systems have been upgraded. The minimalist Lif light column by Selux, which has been individually configured for the pilot project, forms the heart of the pilot system. Basic general and pathway lighting functions are handled by the top element, which is equipped with a quadruple Tritec Optic and pathway module. Below these lighting tools is an RGB accent element – a light ring illuminated in single or diverse colours. In the evening it radiates blue accent light – to match the energy provider’s corporate design – while in an emergency it changes colour so that the ring turns red and begins to flash.

The modular Lif provides ideal prerequisites for the integration of smart functions. Function modules such as a camera and WiFi element as well as a loudspeaker module blend seamlessly into the modular system. Besides the smart features, an air quality sensor has been installed for the measurement of seven different parameters such as temperature, air humidity, air pressure, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphuric dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO) and ozone (O3). Another sensor is connected to transmit the latest particulate matter data. The light column is also equipped with a smart door however with two illuminated buttons for info and SOS – as well as a microphone, via which an emergency call can be made at the press of a button. These minor details are able to significantly improve personal safety in public spaces – a key factor in urban quality of life.

When it came to upgrading the lighting, it was clear to the planners that the goal of light was to foster well-being. As well as the smart Lif light column, two Avanza 600 luminaires equipped with Zhaga connectors and ICE Gateway Z-controllers were installed on the test circuit. As a result, all lighting parameters can simply be adjusted from the desktop and adapted to the relevant application as required.

client: Energieversorgung Leverkusen GmbH & Co. KG (EVL)

emergency call system: Schneider-Intercom

Lighting control and air quality measurement: ICE Gateway

Particulate matter sensor: Greatech

Photographer: Tobias Vollmer