• Adaptive street lighting system launched, helping to reduce carbon emissions while saving £500,000 annually by 2025/26
• Central control makes it easier to manage streetlight timings and adjust lighting levels
• Lighting remains unchanged in critical areas such as town centres, transport hubs, and key pedestrian pathways
Newham Council has launched a cutting-edge street lighting system across the borough, reducing carbon emissions and saving energy.
The new system allows the street lighting to be operated centrally, making it easier to manage streetlight timings and adjust lighting levels. This approach helps to ensure the right level of street lighting is used to balance the needs of road users and public safety, while saving money and being more environmentally friendly.
Councillor Sarah Ruiz, Statutory Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainable Transport, Children Services and Education, said: "The rollout of adaptive street lighting across Newham marks a significant step in our commitment to a greener, and more energy efficient borough. By using innovative technology, we are helping to reduce our carbon footprint and energy costs at a time when council finances are being squeezed like never before. This initiative is a testament to the power of partnership working with local stakeholders to ensure Newham remains a welcoming and sustainable community for all."
The Council undertook a trial in select locations, working closely with Newham’s community safety team to ensure safety and security were prioritised throughout the project.
Following the success of the trial, adaptive lighting has now been rolled out across the borough; it is estimated that this will save 370 tonnes of carbon dioxide and £500,000 during the 2025/26 financial year.
In certain areas lighting levels have remained unchanged. These areas, which account for approximately 15% of street lights in Newham, include:
- Town centres
- Train and bus stations
- Key pedestrian crossings
- Foot bridges and underpasses
- Pedestrian footpaths
- Signalised junctions
For questions or comments about this programme, email the Council’s project team at: adaptivelighting@newham.gov.uk.
