Monday, 16 June 2025
Austroads has released a new technical report providing essential guidance for upgrading ageing road tunnel lighting systems to energy-efficient LED technology. With lighting accounting for up to 50% of energy use in older tunnels, this report is a vital resource for tunnel owners and operators across Australia and New Zealand seeking to upgrade their aging lighting systems, while reducing operational costs, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and maintaining safety.
Road tunnels are critical components of Australia and New Zealand’s transport networks, enabling efficient and safe travel by bypassing surface obstacles and connecting urban and rural areas. Many tunnels built in recent decades feature modern infrastructure, but a significant number still use fluorescent or high-pressure sodium (HPS) lighting. These older systems may be less efficient, with spare parts becoming scarce due to obsolescence, and require more maintenance. Yet they present a valuable opportunity for upgrades that can enhance energy efficiency and reduce long-term costs as they near the end of their operational life.
“Lighting in older tunnels can account for up to half of their total energy use, leading to significant ongoing costs and environmental impacts,” said Ross Guppy, Austroads Transport Infrastructure Program Manager. “This research provides tunnel owners with practical guidance to upgrade lighting systems that strike the right balance between energy efficiency, cost, and safety.”
The report, LED Lighting in Existing Road Tunnels – Best Practice Approaches, draws on extensive industry experience, stakeholder consultation, and literature review to offer best practice advice tailored to the unique challenges of upgrading tunnel lighting in Australia and New Zealand. It covers critical topics including lighting colour options, installation methods, and technical specifications.
“Upgrading to LED lighting is not simple,” Ross explains. “It requires careful planning, customised designs, and collaboration among all project stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes.”
The guidance stresses the need for thorough project planning and risk assessment, including defining responsibilities early in the process to avoid surprises during design and construction. It also notes that lighting retrofit projects have achieved up to 20% energy savings in some recent cases, highlighting the potential for reduced operating costs and emissions.
“Many tunnels are now reaching the end of their lighting system’s lifespan,” said Ross. “This report helps owners make informed decisions that support long-term sustainability without compromising safety or performance.”
By consolidating the latest research and practical insights, the report supports infrastructure professionals responsible for maintaining and upgrading tunnel lighting systems across the region. It also lays the groundwork for future improvements in tunnel lighting standards and practices.
Download LED Lighting in Existing Road Tunnels – Best Practice Approaches
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