Smart urban lighting in Kaunas

Smart urban lighting in Kaunas demonstrates how adaptive, motion-responsive technology can reduce light pollution, save energy, and make cycling paths safer, more energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly.

 

Location:

Kaunas, Lithuania

 

Hardware:

 

Software:

Urban lighting management platform HORIZON

 

The challenge

A popular cycling zone in Kaunas was previously lit using a factory-set schedule. In other words, luminaires operated at an energy-intensive brightness throughout the night. While this ensured constant visibility, it led to excessive energy use, increased light pollution, and shortened luminaire lifespan.

City planners sought a smarter approach, one that could preserve safety for cyclists while reducing environmental and financial costs.

 

The solution: smart urban lighting in Kaunas

Together with Kaunas, we implemented a smart lighting system featuring LIGHTWAVE and LIGHTWAVE-LTE luminaire controllers, along with LUMAWISE Motion sensors. We integrated these components into the urban lighting management platform HORIZON, which enabled remote, real-time control of the lighting infrastructure.

In addition, thanks to the true adaptive lighting technology, streetlights now:

  • Remain heavily dimmed when the bike path is empty.
  • Brighten instantly when cyclists and/or pedestrians are detected, ensuring safety without wasting energy.

 

Results & benefits

Motion-triggered lighting for cyclists

Lights brighten only when movement is detected, providing visibility precisely where it’s needed and only when it’s needed.

Energy efficiency and CO₂ reduction: 69% less energy consumed

The adaptive lighting feature drastically reduces electricity consumption, helping the city cut both energy costs and carbon emissions.

Minimized light pollution

The dynamic dimming approach preserves the nighttime environment, reducing glare and maintaining comfort for nearby residents and nature areas.

Remote control and diagnostics

With HORIZON, city operators can monitor performance, adjust lighting levels, and receive real-time fault alerts to prevent outages.

 

Looking ahead

By transforming the cycling zone into a responsive lighting environment, Kaunas is proving how smart infrastructure can improve the quality of life while reaching its environmental goals. This project offers a strong model for similar active mobility routes throughout the city.