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/