Overview

The “Kythnos Smart Island” project aimed at transforming the island into a model of sustainable and innovative infrastructure management. It introduces smart technologies across energy, water, waste, mobility, and public lighting systems. In the lighting sector, outdated and inefficient fixtures were replaced or upgraded across the island to enhance safety, energy performance, and aesthetics. The lighting upgrades followed principles of rational design, modern technology use, and smart management systems. Field inspections revealed widespread issues such as corroded fixtures, incorrect installation, and uneven lighting. A pilot phase tested lighting scenarios in four settlements accounting for seasonal population changes and environmental conditions. These pilots included adaptive lighting technologies based on motion sensors and timed dimming for energy savings. The project also emphasized citizen involvement through workshops that helped shape the final system design, ensuring local needs and preferences were addressed. Lighting quality was assessed based on metrics like uniformity, color temperature, and light pollution, revealing over-lighting, poor shielding, and excessive blue light. The results lead to the formation of a comprehensive lighting plan for the entire island. Kythnos serves as a case study for smart, sustainable development in isolated regions, demonstrating how local infrastructure can be modernized with community input and environmentally responsible planning.

RESULTS

• Although the annual energy consumption has slightly increased, the overall lighting quality across the island has significantly improved.
• The absence of energy savings can be attributed to two main factors: the pre-existing use of LED bulbs (efficiency already optimized) and the expansion of the lighting network under investment.

TIMESCALE

2019-2023

FINANCING

The project is 100% funded under the Settlement Agreement between the Hellenic Republic and Siemens. Total cost of procurement and installation amounts to 315,644€

CONTACTS

Sustainable Islands Network