sam_uk wrote:In Powys they turned off every other street light last year. No apparent ill effects and 50% of the bill.
I don't really understand why we can't fit IR sensors to them. Surely they only need to be on when someone is walking along?
Cant be done with the lamps traditionally used for street lighting as these take some minutes to warm up.
LEDs start instantly and could be readily controlled by infra red or microwave sensors, and the practice may become widespread. The main drawback is the perception, especially by ladies, that unlit areas are dangerous or at least "scary"
"Installers and owners of emergency diesels must assume that they will have to run for a week or more"
Meanwhile, I really don't like the idea of streetlights that light my way and leave the rest of the place in darkness. I'd prefer all darkness: that way myself and my mugger have an equal sporting chance!
Meanwhile, I really don't like the idea of streetlights that light my way and leave the rest of the place in darkness. I'd prefer all darkness: that way myself and my mugger have an equal sporting chance!
Why would having a rickety bed make me a dirty old man? Oh wait...you thought...
Hang on..those thoughts are in YOUR head, not mine!
Re. the streetlights, I agree. Your mugger has the advantage of shadows and you have the disadvantage of no night-acclimatised vision with which to spot him/her.
woodburner wrote:Frequent switching on and off can reduce the life of some equipment.
Quite possibly, though there have been improvements - LEDs can be switched on and off repeatedly without problems.
woodburner wrote:Getting people to use a torch would solve the problem, and give them their first step in prepping for many.
Now you're talking. There's been a concerted effort over here to get walkers, joggers (though not cyclists, strangely) to wear reflective gear and it's having a very positive effect. Next step, street lights off!
I experience pleasure and pains, and pursue goals in service of them, so I cannot reasonably deny the right of other sentient agents to do the same - Steven Pinker
As a cyclist I sometimes have problems with reflective kit. It reflects the low winter sun into my eyes and makes it difficult to see stuff. People need to remember that, though crucial at night-time, it's a bloody menace 2 hours before.
I experience pleasure and pains, and pursue goals in service of them, so I cannot reasonably deny the right of other sentient agents to do the same - Steven Pinker
For anyone living roughly north of Manchester, tonight and tomorrow should be great times to see the Aurora. Forecast is high due to a large solar flare.
