Energy saving based lighting system optimization and smart control solutions for rail transportation: Evidence from China

As the natural resources are becoming exhausted, energy consumption by metro systems dominates internal transportation resources in urban areas. The comprehensive exploration of energy improvements in lighting system energy is necessary. To evaluate the energy-saving potential and identify the efficiency improvement opportunities for lighting operations in metro systems, an intelligent energy management system for metro stations is examined through a case study in Nanchang city of China. First, the study explores the main factors influencing the lighting energy consumption of metro systems and analyses the lighting distribution in different station regions. Second, DIALux software is employed to optimize and monitor the best illuminating effect for hall lighting in the selected station. Third, an intelligent model is proposed for the lighting system based on the energy-saving scheme and solution using BECH energy analysis software combined with DIALux software. A thermal model is proposed to verify the energy and load performances. Results show that (1) the proper layout by means of DIALux software, can not only meet the functional demands of lighting but also reduce energy consumption; (2) intelligent lighting control system can improve the lighting energy-saving design, and the lighting control framework is capable of refined control; and (3) based on the performance analyses, the solution with the adopted DALI digital light adjustment is helpful for increasing passengers' comfort and realizing the goals reduction.The novelty is to integrate the lighting energy saving solution with software within an intelligent management and verified its valuable application, it is practical for construction emission control. •An integration solution of lighting energy saving within an intelligent management is proposed.•The traditional lighting energy management combining with energy performance analysis can improve the design effects.•Proper layout of the metro station lighting can meet its functional demands and reduce the energy consumption.•Intelligent lighting control system can improve the energy-saving design and is capable of the refined control model.•Solution with digital technology can increase passengers’ comfortableness and realize the energy saving and emission target.