The Need to Replace Outdated Technology

The collaboration began in 2016, as the City of Kerava needed to replace its outdated systems based on electricity meter control with a more modern solution. The local electric utility had long called for change, as the availability of new equipment for the old system was declining. The city began evaluating available options and chose the C2 SmartLight solution due to its flexibility and future potential. At the same time, the city also acquired an asset management system to monitor and manage its lighting infrastructure.

“In the early stages, we didn’t have a clear understanding of the systems available and what possibilities they offered. However, we wanted a solution that would enable not only centralized control but also luminaire-specific and sensor-based automation,” says Miika Tiihonen, Project Manager responsible for outdoor lighting at the City of Kerava.

Versatile Solutions Throughout the City

Kerava has around 150 street lighting control cabinets under C2 SmartLight's central control. There are approximately 11,000 luminaires, of which more than half are LED. For years, the city has procured new luminaires with control readiness, and luminaire-specific control has been implemented primarily in areas where demand-based lighting offers the greatest benefits, such as fitness trails, sports fields, and low-traffic zones, where automation saves energy and increases safety.

“From the start, Kerava has been a forerunner in utilizing smart lighting. Together, we have implemented many innovative solutions that not only save energy but also improve user experience and safety,” says Sales Manager Jani Lind at C2 SmartLight Oy.

Innovations in Street Lighting

Kerava's street lighting utilizes several smart solutions. C2 SmartWalk pedestrian crossing lights improve pedestrian safety by making those crossing more visible. The underpass at Ahjontie features dynamic color lighting with gently changing colors, creating an impressive and pleasant atmosphere. In addition, a unique traffic monitoring solution has been developed for Kerava’s traffic lights, where vehicle movement is tracked with loop sensors and the data is used to control lighting. “When traffic volumes drop, streetlights don’t need to operate at full power. Automatic dimming will allow lighting to adapt to real needs in the future without compromising safety,” Tiihonen notes.

Innovations in Sports Facilities

Kerava has developed new lighting solutions specifically for sports facilities. The fitness trail and stairs at Keinukallio and the fitness trail at Ahjo now feature sensor control, with lights brightening when users are present and dimming otherwise. The C2 SmartPlay push-button solution controls lighting on several fields. At Kaleva Sports Park, a barrier gate limits unnecessary traffic while ensuring maintenance and emergency vehicles have access when needed. The gate can be controlled, for example, according to the opening hours of the facility, ensuring accessibility when appropriate.

Kaleva Sports Park is also home to Kerava’s Mestis-level ice hall, which features intelligent lighting control. The system allows lighting levels to be adjusted for different purposes such as training or matches. The hall also includes a manual control unit from C2 SmartLight, enabling quick lighting adjustments to meet the demands of ice sports events.

In Kerava, the lighting at sports facilities adjusts according to field reservations. Whether it's a practice or a game, the lighting adapts automatically to the situation, providing just the right illumination for each reservation. When the reservation ends, the lights dim, preparing the space for the next use. “For us, the most important thing is that lighting serves users when it’s actually needed. Automatic control makes this easy and ensures lights aren’t left on unnecessarily,” Tiihonen emphasizes.

The Development Path Continues

Kerava is one of the pioneers piloting new innovations and actively adopting smart solutions. The city was among the first to transition to the C2 Smart City control solution and now also uses the C2IS situational awareness system.

“It’s been a major advantage for us to be involved in piloting new C2 solutions. We get access to innovations early, and the cooperation with C2 SmartLight has been flexible. We’ve been able to provide feedback and take part in shaping new operating models,” Tiihonen summarizes.

Through the progress in lighting development, Kerava has become one of Finland’s most advanced cities in terms of urban lighting – and the development continues with new smart solutions.