Sustainable solar solutions transform Rampton Crossing

In December 2024, DW Windsor supplied new solar lighting solutions to Rampton Crossing to enhance the safety of the crossing for local cyclists and pedestrians.

Situated in the heart of rural Cambridgeshire, the crossing point located in Rampton, Longstanton, is heavily used by the local community. However, due to the lack of adequate lighting, the crossing was not clearly identifiable, posing a significant risk of injury to the public. Given the crossing is also used as a guided bus route, high-level lighting was needed to improve visibility for bus drivers, therefore ensuring safe passage through the area.

To address this issue, contractor Balfour Beatty Living Places collaborated with DW Windsor to choose lights from its solar lighting collection. Given the challenge of needing a 2,000-metre cable for a grid connection, DW Windsor suggested using an off-grid solar solution instead. This approach eliminated the need for grid power, ensuring a substantial reduction in the site’s carbon footprint.

With this, a lighting solution was needed that combined functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, to which DW Windsor provided two Kirium One lanterns along with 100W Torino Sleeve solar panels from its Solar System range. They were installed on 6-metre columns on each side of the crossing to ensure even lighting.

To ensure optimal performance, DW Windsor collaborated with Balfour Beatty Living Places to develop a solar power design, capable of delivering required light levels year-round. Furthermore, a dimming profile was implemented to provide adequate illumination during peak hours, with integrated passive infrared sensors (PIR) being programmed to activate full output upon detecting movement, returning to a dimmed state after 60 seconds of inactivity. This system significantly reduces energy consumption, aligning with the project’s sustainability objectives.

Alan Grant, Design & Development Director at DW Windsor, remarked: “This project perfectly showcases the benefits of solar lighting in rural environments. By eliminating the need for grid power and leveraging energy-efficient solutions, we’ve demonstrated how technology can enhance safety while supporting environmental goals. Our collaboration with Balfour Beatty has been instrumental in delivering this sustainable solution.”

The upgraded lighting scheme balances safety, aesthetics, and environmental impact; with solar lighting enhancing the crossing’s appeal for pedestrians and cyclists. By avoiding trenching and grid connection, installation costs are reduced. The solar solution also cuts energy expenses and maintenance, supporting sustainability goals.

Wayne Shardelow, Senior Lighting Design Engineer at Balfour Beatty, said: “Working alongside DW Windsor on this project was a pleasure – the team provided expert recommendations, were thorough in their calculations, and worked hard to ensure that the lighting solutions met the specific requirements for illumination, aesthetics and sustainability. Utilising powerful solar solutions is a step in the right direction to ensure that environmentally friendly, long-lasting lighting is there for the future of users of this crossing.”

Clients and partners 

Client: Cambridgeshire County Council.

Contractor: Balfour Beatty Living Places.

Lighting supplier: DW Windsor.