The Mayor of London Boris Johnson has announced a deal that could see a state-of-the-art energy-efficient lighting system installed on London’s famous Tower Bridge.

The deal, which is subject to planning permission, has been struck between bridge owners City of London Corporation, energy supplier EDF and technology experts GE.

The partners hope to install a new LED and flexible lighting system, as well as a new cabling system, to replace the bridge’s current 25-year-old static flood-lighting.

The new lighting system would not only reduce energy consumption by an estimated 40%, but would also for both the colour and intensity of light to be varied so that the bridge could feature in special events.

Lighting experts Citelum have been appointed to design the lighting system and install it, if it gets the planning go ahead.

Johnson is confident that the project will go ahead and be completed by spring 2012 in time for the bridge to participate in the festivities surround the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“Tower Bridge is one of this city’s most stunning landmarks, recognised the world over and therefore deserving of a star role in these year-long celebrations,” he said, adding: “This is another great legacy for London stretching for decades beyond the Olympic year.”

Energy supplier EDF, which is a sustainability partner on London 2012, has already worked on a project with the London Eye.

“EDF is delighted to be involved in this exciting project to help reduce the carbon footprint of another iconic London landmark,” said Vincent de Rivaz, chief executive of EDF Energy, EDF’s UK subsidiary. “We hope that the new energy efficient lighting will make Tower Bridge a shining symbol of sustainability.”

For further information:
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
www.london.gov.uk/
www.edfenergy.com/
www.GE.com

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London’s National Gallery to install LEDs in bid to cut emissions by 43% (19-Apr)