Lighting renewal in Mondoñedo: energy efficiency and enhancement of historical heritage

MONDOÑEDO, GALICIA (SPAIN) —2/8/2024— Mondoñedo, one of Galicia's historical treasures, has completed the second phase of its public exterior lighting energy-saving and efficiency project in the old town. This initiative, aimed at modernizing the town's lighting infrastructure, has elevated energy efficiency to new levels while preserving and enhancing the cultural and architectural value of the area. The project involved replacing obsolete lighting with modern LED solutions, both in the old town and in its iconic Catedral Basílica de la Virgen de la Asunción, resulting in a significant improvement in lighting quality and remarkable energy savings.

Technical challenges and heritage-sensitive solutions

The Mondoñedo project faced the challenge of modernizing the lighting system without compromising the aesthetics of the old town, which boasts a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Additionally, the previous lighting system, based on technologies such as metal halide lamps and induction lamps, not only had high energy consumption but also posed maintenance issues and inadequate regulation of operating hours.

To address these challenges, high-efficiency LED luminaires were installed, customized to the specific needs of each location. In total, 112 lighting fixtures were replaced, significantly reducing the total installed power and improving light pollution control. Primarily, classic-style Villa XLA polymer luminaires with Comfort Diffuser®, which mitigates glare, have been used, along with Aire® 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series floodlights for architectural lighting.

Before and after: a respectful modernization of the environment

The old luminaires, of various technologies and power ratings (up to 250W in some cases), presented issues with both energy consumption and maintenance. With a total installed power of 5.595 kW and an annual energy consumption of 24,703 kWh, the system was unsustainable in the long term, in addition to not meeting current efficiency and light pollution control regulations.

In contrast, the new LED luminaires from ATP, mostly 20W, have reduced the total installed power to 2.239 kW and the annual energy consumption to 10,079.82 kWh, representing a 60% decrease. Additionally, a power regulation system was implemented, applying a 30% reduction during four hours of low traffic, which has allowed the energy cost to decrease from 6,151.07 euros per year to 1,640.99 euros per year, a savings of 73.32%.

Illuminating the cathedral: technology in service of heritage

One of the project's highlights was the intervention in the lighting of the Catedral Basílica de la Virgen de la Asunción. This building, a masterpiece combining Romanesque foundations with Gothic and Baroque expansions and modifications, required lighting that would enhance its architectural and artistic value without causing glare or altering its solemn appearance.

The selected LED luminaires, a combination of Aire® 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series floodlights, not only provide high-quality lighting but have also been designed to integrate harmoniously and discreetly into the environment, respecting the monument's aesthetics. The result is improved visibility for both residents and visitors, who can now appreciate the majesty of the Cathedral under lighting that enhances its details without distorting them.

Energy and environmental impact

The project's impact in terms of energy savings is remarkable. With the modernization of the lighting system, annual energy consumption has been reduced from 24,703 kWh to 10,079.82 kWh, resulting in an energy savings of 14,623.18 kWh. Applying an energy-to-CO2 emissions conversion factor of 0.521 kg of CO2/kWh, this translates into a reduction of 7,619 kg of CO2 emissions per year.

This significant reduction in emissions underscores Mondoñedo's commitment to sustainability and environmental care, while also improving the quality of life for its residents.

Project satisfaction and evaluation

Guillermo Redrado, vice president of ATP, expressed his satisfaction with the results: "This project has been a remarkable success: we have achieved a reduction in consumption of over 70% while preserving and enhancing the beauty of the old town and the Cathedral. Close collaboration with the engineering team was essential to achieving these results."

Commitment to sustainability and heritage

This public exterior lighting energy-saving and efficiency project is an example of the municipality's commitment to sustainability and the conservation of its cultural heritage. By combining advanced technology with deep respect for history and the environment, Mondoñedo improves its energy efficiency and strengthens its identity as a town that values and protects its legacy.