Transport UK London Bus: A Bright and Efficient Future

From Failing Infrastructure to Modern Efficiency

In a city as dynamic as London, public transport is the lifeblood and its operational hubs must be both safe and efficient. Transport UK, London Bus, a key operator of contracted bus service of Transport for London, faced a critical challenge at its Bow Battersea Depot. The existing lighting infrastructure was failing, aged and costly to operate, posing a significant risk to the facility’s complex daily operations. With the depot running 245 buses and serving as a major hub for training and recruitment, a reliable and modern lighting solution was not just a preference – it was an urgent necessity. 

“The lighting upgrade was needed because the existing installations were failing and aged, and very expensive to run”

The project was pulled between the immediate need for improved lighting levels and the necessity to manage running costs effectively, a common dilemma in the transport sector as operators strive to enhance safety while achieving environmental and financial sustainability.

A Seamless and Swift LED Upgrade

LumenStream partnered with Transport UK to provide a comprehensive, turnkey solution that would address these challenges with minimal disruption. The approach was a seamless LED lighting upgrade, executed almost overnight to accommodate the 24/7 nature of the depot. Over 310 outdated fixtures were replaced with energy-efficient LED luminaires, a critical move to improve visibility, safety and working conditions for employees.

LumenStream’s expertise in handling complex industrial environments was integral to the project’s success. The team was able to safely isolate and replace fittings while the facility remained operational. All work was meticulously scheduled for an out-of-hours weekend period, ensuring that when staff returned on Monday, the depot was fully operational and ready to go with its new, upgraded lighting system. The communication throughout the process was clear and detailed, outlining everything from the project’s scope to the specifics of the new light fittings, the expected cost savings and the installation method, building a foundation of trust and confidence.

Enhanced Safety, Operational Efficiency and Significant Savings

The upgrade at the Bow Battersea Depot has “improved the overall lighting immensely”, particularly in the workshop areas, which previously suffered from poor lighting levels, and also made the office areas much brighter. The new LED lighting not only brings the facility up to UK standards but also significantly reduces maintenance costs from the failing first-generation light fittings. 

“The installation went very, very smoothly. It was done in three days, over a weekend, which meant it was very much less disruptive for the operations on site, particularly as we are a major hub for training and recruitment at this site as well.”

The project at Transport UK resulted in an impressive annual saving of 176 MWh and an increased efficiency of 65%. By improving the lighting, LumenStream has created a safer and more productive working environment for all staff, from those in the workshop to those in the office.