The Interplay between Parameters of Light Pollution and Energy Efficiency for Outdoor Amenity Lighting

Abstract

This paper is related to light pollution and the energy efficiency of outdoor amenity lighting. It concerns the standard design assessment parameters of light pollution, the Upward Light Ratio (ULR) and Upward Flux Ratio (UFR), and the classic energy efficiency parameter—Normalized Power Density (NPD). The motivation for this research was the observation of certain inaccuracies related to the applicability and interpretation of these parameters in practice and the lack of connection between parameters of light pollution and energy efficiency. The multi-variant computer simulations of the exemplary large-area parking lot lighting system were conducted. Over four hundred cases were carefully analyzed. Individual cases differ in the shape of the task area, luminaire arrangements, mounting height, luminous intensity distribution, aiming, and maintenance factor. The results confirmed that the criteria values of ULR and UFR are often overestimated for modern luminaires, which emit luminous flux emitted only downwards. In this case, the ULR and UFR values do not exceed the criteria values for even zones with lower ambient brightness. Thus, lighting solutions with much lower energy efficiency easily meet the requirements of these parameters. This situation is not rational. So, it is crucial to make the criteria of ULR and UFR much more stringent in all environmental zones. Moreover, the research confirms a strong positive linear correlation between UFR and NPD (0.92, p < 0.001), which means that light pollution can be reduced by ensuring an appropriate level of energy efficiency. It is a great help in designing sustainable outdoor amenity lighting.