Design and simulation of electronic ballast performance for high pressure sodium street lighting

Abstract

A novel method of reducing the energy consumption of street lighting using electronic ballasts was simulated on 277 units of 250 W high pressure sodium (HPS) street lights for a month. The design of the electronic ballast is detailed. A control system was utilised to dim the lights at hours of reduced traffic. The energy consumption was compared to that of the conventional system. The electronic ballast operates at a higher frequency and corrects any power distortion in the supply. Together with the light dimming capability, the electronic ballast increased the efficiency of the lighting system resulting in a monthly saving of 10.7 MWh, giving a monthly equivalent carbon dioxide reduction of 6.1 tonnes. In Malaysia, this would translate to a monthly cost saving of 37.7%.