In a significant step towards sustainability, Dubai has embarked on a project to replace more than 14,000 road lights with eco-friendly alternatives. The ambitious upgrade initiative, titled “Dubai Illuminates Green,” encompasses 39 tunnels and crossings, illuminating a stretch of 22.6 kilometers of roadway.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recently unveiled the installation of 14,400 LED lights as part of their commitment to promoting a cleaner environment. Maitha bin Adai, Chief Executive of the RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, shared details about the transformative project. The six-month endeavor involved renovating the lighting systems in prominent tunnels across Dubai, including the airport tunnel, Shindagha tunnel, Dubai Mall tunnel, and the Dubai World Trade Centre tunnel.
The aim of the initiative is to replace outdated tunnel lighting units and enhance night road crossings with sustainable, eco-friendly LED lights. LED lighting units offer a host of environmental benefits, including a remarkable 60% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional lighting units. Furthermore, they boast an extended lifespan of up to 177% more than older lights, resulting in significantly reduced maintenance and operational costs, as the need for frequent replacements is minimized.
The new LED lights shine for an impressive 50,000 hours, surpassing the lifespan of conventional lighting units, which typically last around 18,000 hours. This remarkable longevity not only contributes to cost savings but also reduces waste and ensures a more sustainable lighting solution.
Moreover, the eco-friendly LED lights contribute to a substantial 20% decrease in energy loss and heat emissions compared to traditional lamps. This enhanced efficiency benefits both the operational system of the lighting units and the energy supply network of the tunnels, further aligning with Dubai’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
The “Dubai Illuminates Green” project exemplifies Dubai’s dedication to sustainable development and its efforts to create a greener and more environmentally conscious city. By embracing eco-friendly LED technology, Dubai sets an example for other cities around the world, highlighting the importance of adopting innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.