Introduction:
The Kaikoura District Council in New Zealand has implemented a groundbreaking lighting initiative to safeguard the endangered Hutton’s shearwater, a seabird species found exclusively in the Seaward Kaikōura Range. By addressing the issue of bright lights that disorient these birds during their nighttime flights, the council aims to protect the vulnerable fledglings from potential harm caused by road accidents, predators, and other threats. Collaborating with SCS Schréder, Betacom, and local partners, the council has successfully executed a comprehensive lighting project that embraces energy efficiency while prioritizing wildlife conservation.
Energy Efficiency Measures:
The initial phase of the project involved the replacement of approximately 450 lights throughout the town with energy-efficient LED technology. This transition resulted in a remarkable reduction in power consumption, generating substantial cost savings for the council. Additionally, the switch to LED lighting significantly decreased carbon emissions and eliminated the need for frequent bulb replacements, as LEDs boast a lifespan of 15-20 years.
Implementation of the Exedra Control System:
To further enhance the lighting management capabilities and wildlife protection, the council installed the Exedra control system and software provided by Schréder. The control system brought dual benefits, granting the council full control over the lighting infrastructure while enabling measures to minimize the impact on local wildlife. Extensive research conducted by the council revealed that traffic levels between 11 pm and 4 am were relatively low. In response, the council implemented a dimming strategy, reducing the lights’ brightness to 25% during these hours to mitigate the effects on wildlife, including the endangered Hutton’s shearwater.
Lighting Design and Specifications:
The majority of the pre-existing lights in Kaikoura were outdated and utilized energy-inefficient high-pressure sodium technology. To meet the requirements of the Darksky advocate group and protect the vulnerable fledglings, a comprehensive lighting design was conducted by Betacom Lighting Engineers. On-site audits were performed to ensure compliance with local lighting standards and regulations, including pole heights and placement. A combination of 3000K and 2200K colour temperatures was chosen to satisfy the specific criteria and minimize the attraction of birds to bright lights. The Smart Control solution implemented in the project allowed the council to control individual luminaires or groups and sub-groups, enabling targeted lighting adjustments.
Benefits and Impacts:
The Kaikoura District Council’s adoption of innovative lighting measures has yielded significant benefits. By upgrading to LED lights and implementing optimized switching and dimming strategies, the project achieved an impressive energy saving of 55%. Accurate measurement and recording of energy consumption have facilitated effective management of energy costs, while also supporting sustainability initiatives and reporting. Real-time fault reporting and direct notifications to the main Control Room through the Exedra system have streamlined street light maintenance and management for Mainpower, the responsible authority.
Environmental Outcomes:
The positive environmental impacts resulting from this project are notable. By embracing Darksky and wildlife-friendly lighting practices, the initiative is contributing to helping protect and enhance both the nocturnal ecosystem and the Hutton’s shearwater population. With Kaikoura being a popular tourist destination known for activities such as whale watching, cycling, fishing, and water sports, the lighting project ensures both visitor safety and environmental preservation. The significant reduction in light pollution contributes to a more sustainable and harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife in this unique coastal region.
Conclusion:
The Kaikoura District Council’s implementation of smart innovative lighting techniques stands as a commendable example of how district and regional councils can address environmental concerns while prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability. Through collaboration with expert partners and the adoption of cutting-edge technology, the council has demonstrated a commitment to protecting endangered species, reducing light pollution, and creating a safe and sustainable community for residents and visitors alike.
