Exploring the Feasibility of Autonomous Lighting Systems for Pedestrian Crossings in Off-Grid Areas

Abstract

A properly designed and manufactured autonomous lighting system has an impact on reducing the amount of conflicts between pedestrians and drivers. For pedestrian crossings located outside of urban areas, one of the utilized solutions is PV installations with an electrochemical energy storage bank. So, the question should be asked: is it possible to maintain proper energy and lighting parameters throughout the year? This depends on the technical parameters of the installation, insolation, operating time, and the number and power of lighting luminaires directly prescribed by formal regulations. The purpose of this article is to present a method for evaluating the performance of a lighting installation at isolated pedestrian crossings based on annual power generation data obtained from a photovoltaic installation. This article presents lighting requirements for pedestrian crossing lighting. Based on the developed five lighting scenarios and energy calculations, year-round operation was simulated. Problems and risks that may affect the availability and performance of the lighting system were introduced. Directions for further research on the application of photovoltaic installations in road infrastructure were identified.