Public lighting plays a crucial role in urban life. Streetlights contribute to road safety, pedestrian security and social inclusion, but they also represent a significant share of municipal energy consumption. In many cities, lighting systems operate at full intensity regardless of real environmental conditions, leading to unnecessary energy use and increased light pollution.
Smart lighting systems offer an alternative by adapting light intensity to ambient conditions and human presence. By combining sensors, simple control logic and low-cost microcontrollers, it is possible to reduce energy consumption while maintaining safety and comfort.
In this module, participants explore how adaptive lighting principles can be simulated using the micro:bit. Through inquiry-based experimentation, learners investigate how ambient light levels can be translated into simple programming rules that optimise energy use. The module connects coding, environmental awareness and sustainable urban design, demonstrating how digital tools can support more efficient and resilient cities.
Curriculum
- 1 Section
- 5 Lessons
- 10 Weeks
- Smart Lighting Simulation with micro:bitThis section introduces the principles of energy-efficient public lighting and adaptive urban systems. Participants explore how ambient light conditions can be translated into simple control logic using accessible digital tools. Through structured experimentation and programming, learners simulate smart lighting behaviour and analyse its impact on sustainability and energy efficiency6
- 1.1Introduction to Smart Lighting and Urban Sustainability
- 1.2Questioning and Hypothesis Building for Energy-Efficient Lighting
- 1.3Experiment: Simulating Adaptive Lighting Systems
- 1.4Programming the micro:bit for Smart Lighting Logic
- 1.5Share and Reflect: Evaluating Energy Efficiency and Urban Impact
- 1.6Quiz — Smart Lighting and Energy Efficiency8 Questions
