Philips committed to helping create more attractive and efficient cities – with light.

Royal Philips Electronics’ (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) LED lighting solutions have completely transformed Zürich’s Hardbrücke, adding life to the neighborhood while reducing energy costs.

The main lighting goal for the Hardbrücke was to upgrade the lighting under the bridge, as well as to significantly improve security for pedestrians. The lighting solution had to take into consideration bicycle and pedestrian paths, as well as an additional lane for public transport and a newly laid tram line. The aim was to provide a uniform lighting experience for all bridge users.

The chosen lighting solution consists of Koffer2 fixtures on the bridge, while the underside of the 2.3 km long bridge is lit with 1,750 LEDline2 luminaires, making this Switzerland’s largest LED project.

At the same time, the Koffer2 solution reduces Zürich’s energy requirements from 32 kW to 21 kW (annual savings of 42,800 kWh), while the 1,750 LEDlines require 25 kW for 1,654 hours a year (41,000 kWh/year). Other significant benefits include reduced servicing requirements and the long lifespan of the lights.

The 40-year old bridge in the heart of Switzerland’s biggest city is the main connection between the north and the south, as well as providing connections to other parts of the country.. For the approximately 70,000 vehicles travelling across the bridge every day, security and functionality are of the utmost importance.

Together with the required renovation of the bridge, the municipality of Zürich chose to renew its lighting with the intention of reducing energy costs, service costs and light pollution. Additionally, Zürich wanted to shape the night view of the city and improve the quality of life for the residents.