Spotlight on Darwin council over installation of Smart City lights without promised motion sensor capabilities

THE Esplanade’s Smart City lights were put in place without motion sensors capabilities, despite a promise from Darwin Council that the project would include the technology.

Darwin council innovation manager Josh Sattler with a set of Smart City lights. Picture: Glenn Campbell

THE Esplanade’s Smart City lights were put in place without motion sensors capabilities, despite a promise from Darwin Council that the project would include the technology.

Darwin council innovation manager Josh Sattler said there was a possibility to introduce the motion sensors at a later date.

“(Motion sensor lighting) hasn’t been included in the current capacity,” he said.

“We can look at it in the next budget if council decide to.”

However when the Esplanade’s “smart” lights were switched on in February last year, a council press release said they would include motion sensors.

“Already, Telstra has commenced the installation of smart sensor enabled LED lighting in Bicentennial Park.” the press release said.

“The pathway lighting in Bicentennial Park will be upgraded with new light poles, LED smart lights and controllers to enhance safety and amenity, reduce energy consumption and provide dynamic lighting.”

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Mr Sattler confirmed the lights on the Esplanade had been running at 70 per cent brightness, with council able to manually change each light together or individually.