The UK’s busiest train station, Clapham Junction, is set to achieve significant energy savings with the introduction of an intelligent lighting control system.
 

Clapham Junction in London is one of Europe's busiest train stations in terms of the volume of trains that pass through..

Open Technology’s LiGO control system will provide the exact light levels required across the station, matching lighting use to train timetable, passenger presence, daylight levels and other varying uses. The system is able to ensure maximum savings throughout the year as well as reduce light pollution in the surrounding area.
 
For the first time, Clapham Junction station will automatically be able to dim the lights down to a minimum value when the station is not in operation or switch the lights off when the station is completely closed. On average, this would amount to savings of 35% of usual lighting use.
 
“Delivery of a safe environment is of paramount importance in the transport sector. Our LiGO system gives the confidence that appropriate light levels are maintained at all times, whilst ensuring that they are no higher than necessary. We are able to achieve maximum savings for the operators, alongside comfort and safety for staff and passengers” explained Open Technology Managing Director Chris Bedford.
 
Clapham Junction will be the latest in a series of projects that has seen Network Rail and South West Trains work in partnership with Open Technology to introduce intelligent lighting controls. Following an initial installation at Woking Station in 2010, LiGO has now been introduced at 25 stations and train maintenance depots across the Wessex Route.
 
Installing lighting control is one part of the South West Trains, Network Rail Alliance’s climate change and energy reduction strategy that is estimated to achieve total annual savings of 7–12 million pounds and a payback period of approximately six years.