Have you ever tried to load a ship in the dark?
That's one of the first questions we pose to port and terminal owners and operators when discussing the importance of investing in lighting. It may seem fundamental, yet lighting is often overlooked as a critical asset that underpins safety, security, and operational continuity. Despite these crucial roles, many ports and terminals still rely on outdated, economically and environmentally inefficient lighting solutions, such as high-pressure sodium and metal halide systems.
Why are outdated lighting solutions still used in ports?
The reason often lies in a lack of awareness. Many owners and operators are simply not informed about the significant and easily achievable efficiency gains that come from upgrading lighting solutions. As a result, these outdated technologies continue to dominate despite their substantial downsides.
How can energy-efficient lighting contribute to decarbonisation?
The argument for investing in energy-saving lighting solutions is compelling. Firstly, lighting is responsible for nearly 5% of global CO2 emissions, with a portion of these emissions stemming from logistics operations. This means lighting must be a part of any port or terminal's decarbonisation strategy. Although there are currently no set regulations for energy-efficient lighting, European environmental initiatives such as EcoPort have highlighted energy efficiency as a top environmental concern for ports in their 2019 and 2020 reports.
Upgrading outdated lighting to LED solutions can lead to over a 70% reduction in energy consumption. This not only improves the energy efficiency of maritime hubs but also significantly reduces CO2 emissions. Moreover, LED bulbs last up to 20 times longer than traditional lighting, further reducing waste.
What does success look like?
A great example is the Port of Tyne, which successfully integrated lighting into its decarbonisation strategy. By investing in LED lighting, alongside other proven energy-saving solutions as part of its clean energy plan, the port was able to achieve outstanding results. In fact, it won two clean energy awards at the Maritime UK 2020 Awards and reduced carbon emissions by 700 tonnes in just 12 months. LED lighting was fundamental in achieving these milestones.
Is energy efficiency worth the cost?
Absolutely. Increasing energy efficiency also significantly reduces costs. While traditional lighting solutions may seem less expensive at the outset, LED lighting quickly proves itself as the most cost-effective solution over time. The initial deterrent of higher upfront costs is counterbalanced by the rapid return on investment, thanks to the durability and significant energy savings of LED lighting.
How can LED lighting improve port operations?
Beyond cost and environmental benefits, LED lighting can also enhance port operations. As an enabling technology, it can lead to performance gains across safety, security, and overall operational effectiveness. LED lighting delivers much greater visibility compared to older systems, often increasing light levels by over 50%. This improved visibility can enhance CCTV performance and boost the safety of vessel loading equipment, ultimately optimising existing assets.
Why should port and terminal owners invest in energy-saving lighting?
The answer is straightforward: to reduce operational expenditure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance energy efficiency. As the maritime industry, along with wider society, moves towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the energy transition, every part of the supply chain must be evaluated. Lighting is a crucial component that can make a significant difference.
