In Luton, the Borough Council is responsible for maintaining and positioning bus stops and shelters. With funding through the Department of Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Programme (BSIP), the Council has embarked on a series of upgrades, including the replacement of their network of bus shelters. As part of this initiative, they sought a durable, reliable, and cost-efficient lighting solution to enhance commuter safety. Acrospire provided a solar-powered solution that ensures zero energy consumption and robust performance.
In collaboration with the local authority and contractor Volker Highways, Acrospire utilised the MSL-50 from partner Greenfrog. This modular, solar-powered LED lighting system features separate panels and light components designed for canopies, shelters, and amenities without mains power- providing the ideal basis for the Luton bus shelter light.
Steven Lain, Service Manager, Bus Services & Operations, Luton Borough Council, explained their motivation: “We needed a lighting solution for our bus shelters that required no external power supply. The solar-powered lights eliminate the cost and complexity of electrical installations, and they are incredibly robust, ensuring long-term durability even in the face of vandalism.”
Working closely with Greenfrog and Volker Highways, Acrospire designed a custom solar-powered bus shelter light around the MSL-50 system to fit the mechanical construction of Luton’s two-bay bus shelters.
Engineered to endure the most demanding environments, the MSL-50 boasts a 316-grade stainless steel exterior and a toughened glass lens for high vandal resistance – addressing any concerns the Council might have had about vandalism. Its compact integrated battery ensures easy installation and offers a cost-effective lighting solution for various applications.
Steven Lain further emphasised the benefits of solar lighting: “With no power supply at the shelter, there’s no need for electrical testing or risk of vandalism to the power. The solar lighting system is virtually maintenance-free, with no energy costs and minimal upkeep required. This fit-and-forget solution will last many years, with battery maintenance unlikely for at least a decade.”
The lighting installation across Luton’s 150 bus shelters not only fulfils the Council’s safety objectives but also underscores a commitment to sustainability and cost-efficiency. The MSL-50’s rugged design ensures it can withstand public use and potential vandalism.
Steven Lain praised the project’s impact, “The solar lighting installation for this first tranche of bus shelters in Luton has worked really well. It not only provides safety and accessibility but also sets a precedent for sustainable development; we look forward to seeing the results applied to some of our larger bus shelters around the borough.”
To find out more about Acrospire’s solar range please visit: https://acrospire.co/ranges/solar/
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