Hong Kong has joined a series of worldwide trials of LED outdoor lighting.

 

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) Chek Lap Kok Airport and Hong Kong University (HKU) began LED pilots this week.

 

The trials, led by NGO The Climate Group (TCG), will assess the potential of LEDs and smart controls to curb greenhouse gas emissions and cut energy costs, while making cities brighter and safer at night.

 

New York, London and Kolkata are also taking part in the “LightSavers” initiative, TCG said.

 

TCG and the three Hong Kong partners will work together over to the next six to 12 months to test the performance of five different LED lighting products at these sites.

 

According to TCG, lighting accounts for 19% of the world’s annual electricity use and nearly 10% of global CO₂ emissions - roughly equivalent to that of 70% of the world’s passenger cars. Lighting accounts for about $19 billion in annual operating costs worldwide.

 

Early trials of LED lighting are achieving energy-use reductions of 50% to 70% when paired with smart controls, TCG said. It says LEDs are more efficient than conventional HPS, metal halide or fluorescent lamps, and can also direct more light on surfaces where it is most needed.

 

“In the long run, the program will facilitate broader uptake of LED outdoor lighting technologies, creating energy savings and reducing bills and carbon emissions”, said Kalmond Ma, Head of Pearl River Delta Regional Program, The Climate Group.