Newport’s LED upgrade project illuminates all stages of life

Lighting in schools and care homes supports Newport City Council’s ambitious net zero goals

When we think about decarbonisation, it’s easy to overlook how energy-saving upgrades affect our daily lives. Yet, these initiatives touch the buildings that play significant roles in key chapters of life - from the first day of school to the later years in a care home. Newport City Council's latest LED lighting project does just that, replacing inefficient bulbs with modern LED technology at three primary schools and a care home, ensuring that both energy efficiency and the living environment are enhanced for everyone who interacts with these spaces.

The buildings receiving the upgrades include Ysgol Gymraeg Casnewydd, High Cross Primary School, Parklands Residential Care Home, and Ringland Primary School. This initiative was made possible by over £139,000 in funding from the Wales Funding Programme, financed by Welsh Government and delivered by our teams at Salix as well as the Welsh Government Energy Service.

The project stands as a shining example of how decarbonisation initiatives can improve more than just the environment - they directly benefit the lives of those within these institutions. In particular, the energy upgrades aim to enhance both the carbon savings and the overall quality of life for people who spend a large part of their day in these spaces.

For Parklands Residential Care Home, the Welsh Government Energy Service conducted an on-site energy audit in 2023, identifying the need to replace 156 inefficient fluorescent and halogen lights with energy-saving LEDs. This includes both internal fittings and external floodlights, ensuring that energy efficiency and optimal lighting levels are maintained across the site. For residents, adequate lighting is not just an energy-saving measure but also a critical component of their well-being, providing a comfortable and safe environment.

Research shows that good lighting in care homes plays an important role in the health and safety of residents, particularly as eyesight often deteriorates with age. Quality lighting enhances the ability of residents to perform everyday tasks like reading, socialising, or completing personal care activities, promoting both independence and confidence. 

Lighting also reduces the risk of falls, which are more common in poorly lit areas. The National Institute on Aging notes that fall-related injuries are a significant concern in elderly care homes, and good lighting can mitigate this risk by improving visibility and safety.

The project’s reach goes beyond just lighting. Ysgol Gymraeg Casnewydd has also leveraged Welsh Government funding to install a low-carbon air source heat pump, which aligns with the overall push for sustainable technologies across the city. With two of the schools and the care home already equipped with solar panels, the lighting upgrade complements these existing renewable energy solutions, creating a more energy efficient and sustainable estate.

Newport’s approach is centred on the idea that these upgrades are not simply about saving money but also about creating spaces that foster better living, learning, and working conditions. For primary schools, special attention was paid to the needs of children, including those with additional learning requirements, ensuring that the lighting meets the necessary standards for health and safety as well as comfort. 

Proper lighting is critical in schools, as it affects students' focus, mood, and overall ability to learn. Studies show that poor lighting can increase distractions and fatigue, whereas well-lit classrooms promote better concentration and reduced eye strain. 

It has been found that for children with learning difficulties, lighting is especially important. Research has suggested that children with ADHD and other learning disabilities benefit significantly from well-lit environments, which help to minimise distractions and improve attention. 

With energy-efficient LEDs, schools like Ysgol Gymraeg Casnewydd are better equipped to support the needs of all students, including those with additional learning requirements.

Meanwhile, Eloise Laity, carbon reduction manager at Newport City Council, shared that the collaboration between various departments and the ease of communication have been vital to the success of the project. 

Eloise said: “The ease of contact with our relationship manager at Salix has been really helpful in terms of answering questions and getting information.”

This LED project is part of a broader, ongoing effort at Newport City Council. In fact, the council is rolling out a continuing programme of LED upgrades across the city’s buildings, with plans for further improvements at leisure centres, schools, and other facilities. 

Eloise said: “Our goal is to hit net zero by 2030, and this project is a key part of that effort. The upgraded lighting reduces grid demand, making space for more low-carbon technologies, which contributes to a holistic approach to decarbonisation.”

While any upgrade project comes with potential disruptions, Newport City Council has worked closely with the Newport Nose joint venture company to ensure minimal disruption during the process. Projects are carefully planned to avoid peak times, such as school holidays, and site managers are involved in pre-planning to ensure work is carried out smoothly.

Eloise added: “The sites have been very accommodating. We coordinate with the staff at each location to work around their schedules, ensuring the least disruption for students, staff, and residents alike.”

This project is only the beginning. The continued rollout of LED lighting across Newport’s public buildings will save the city money, reduce carbon emissions, and provide better spaces for the people who rely on these facilities every day. 

As the city works toward its ambitious net-zero target for 2030, initiatives like this will help to create a more sustainable, healthier environment for all.

By addressing both the practical and environmental needs of the community, Newport’s LED lighting project truly illuminates every chapter of life - from learning to care.