It's reported that traffic lights across Bahrain will be equipped with devices to make sure they are not knocked out during power cuts. The Works Ministry announced plans to introduce the special power storage devices just a month after a one-day power cut affected around 20 percent of the country.
One of LED's traits, which surpass what is being used now, is brighter illumination with better contrast against direct sunlight. This means it can be seen from a distance, where drivers and pedestrians can make a better judgement. The ministry will also replace all existing signals with brighter ones using LED.
Traffic signals that use LED consume up to 90pc less energy and last for up to seven years, compared to just a year for a comparable incandescent light signal. the directorate had set up a schedule to replace all old traffic signals with others using LED after it was proven they were suitable to Bahrain's weather conditions.
After a budget is allocated and then at all other traffic signals at a later stage, the plan to purchase and install this new system at major intersections in the country using the LED system with the new power storage devices would ensure the sustainability of traffic signals, particularly during power cuts. LED starts to gradually dim out when they wear out, allowing the maintenance department to be warned well in advance as to when to change the light instead of a sudden burn-out like incandescent-based lights.
It's revealed that the project would be carried out by Siemens that had successfully developed the energy conserving equipment.
