The city of Auckland, New Zealand has created the Vector Lights competition to promote it’s new solar-powered lighting on Auckland’s Harbor Bridge. Primary and intermediate school students have been challenged to invent something that uses smart energy technology. Winners be guests of honor at the launch and will turn on the bridge lights this summer.
90,000 color-changing LEDs, as well as 100 spotlights, are currently being installed with plans to have the bridge lit up every night and changed into active light shows for events like New Year’s Eve, Auckland Pride Festival, the Hindu festival of Diwali, and the Lantern Festival. The $10 million project will involves a partnership between power company Vector and Auckland Council to promote energy efficiency and new and emerging energy technology. Most of the costs are being met by Vector.
“Using sustainable technology is an investment in Auckland’s future and I’m looking forward to seeing the ideas and innovation from young Aucklanders as they imagine the future of our city,” said Auckland’s Mayor Phil Goff.
Plans are for 600 solar panels to provide energy for the bridge. The solar power will be sourced from a nearby locale to the bridge through an existing power line. The line will be using a new technology called ‘peer to peer trading’ that allows suppliers and customers to directly buy and sell excess electricity.
“Vector Lights is all about creating an attraction for Auckland which leaves the planet in better shape for the next generation, so it’s appropriate to let that generation have a go at designing the energy landscape of in the future,” said Vector chief executive officer Simon Mackenzie.
