Belgium is set to transform its urban landscape through a groundbreaking project aimed at modernising around 400,000 streetlight controllers nationwide. This ambitious initiative is led by Flashnet in collaboration with Itron, Lightwell, and Fluvius, marking a significant step toward enhancing energy efficiency and creating smarter, safer cities across the country.
The project builds on the success of Flashnet’s previous collaboration with Sibelga in Brussels, where the inteliLIGHT system was implemented as a key solution for upgrading the city’s street lighting infrastructure. Recognised for its interoperability, inteliLIGHT’s TALQ2-certified controllers seamlessly integrated with Sibelga’s existing management platforms, demonstrating vendor flexibility and ensuring smooth connectivity.
In this new nationwide project, Flashnet has joined forces with Itron, a global leader in energy, water, smart city, and IoT infrastructure services. At the core of this deployment is the NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) communication technology, which facilitates autonomous lighting control and supports the integration of advanced urban technological solutions.
The initiative will employ Zhaga NB-IoT compatible luminaire controllers, designed for swift and cost-effective deployment. These controllers can be easily and securely installed on any compatible lamp, allowing for rapid implementation throughout Belgium. The integration of these controllers will be managed by Itron’s smart city platform, which adheres to the industry-standard TALQ Smart City Protocol. This commitment to interoperability ensures seamless integration with third-party solutions, a hallmark of Flashnet’s innovative approach.
As the deployment progresses, the project is expected to yield significant benefits, including energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced urban safety. The advanced controllers will allow for improved monitoring and management of street lighting, leading to more efficient energy use and contributing to the country’s sustainability goals.
Flashnet’s role in this transformative project not only solidifies its position as a leading provider of smart street lighting solutions but also highlights its dedication to developing smarter, more sustainable cities globally. By modernising streetlight infrastructure, Belgium is taking a crucial step towards a future where urban environments are not only more efficient but also safer for residents and visitors alike.
The initiative aligns with broader trends in smart city development, where the integration of IoT technologies is becoming increasingly vital. As cities worldwide grapple with the challenges of urbanisation and climate change, projects like this one in Belgium exemplify how technology can be harnessed to create resilient urban infrastructures.
This modernisation of street lighting is a clear indication of Belgium’s commitment to embracing innovative solutions for urban challenges. With significant advancements expected in energy efficiency and public safety, the nation is poised to set a benchmark for smart city initiatives in the region. As the project unfolds, it will be closely monitored for its potential to transform the way cities manage their energy resources and infrastructure.
