“Although tolling has not yet formally commenced, it should be pointed out that all tolling points, apart from two, are currently operational and are being used for continuous test purposes in conjunction with the complete toll system. These lights facilitate the detection and classification of vehicles travelling through tolling points at night. During daytime conditions, there is enough light for this purpose. That is why the blue lights are not used during the day,” said Mr Mona. He added that the cost of this is kept to a minimal R49 000.
“Gantries are fitted with toll collection equipment which requires power to run. They are fitted with between eight to 17 luminaries, depending on various factors like the number of trafficked lanes and the road width. The running costs of lighting largely depends on the number of lanes which impacts on the equipment configuration of the various tolling points,” he said.
Mr Mona said the costs do not add any new financial liabilities.
“The installation of the lighting formed part of the cost of the construction of the gantries.
“The monthly cost of electricity is part of the operational cost of the e-toll system. These costs are part of the overall project,” he said.
He added that the latest technology fitted in the lights helped with reducing the costs.
“These lights are controlled by day-night sensors, which automatically regulate the time period during which they are necessary.
“There are no fixed operational periods. The lights are designed to switch on when ambient light drops below 1000 lux, with a delay to avoid unnecessary switching on, like dark clouds passing overhead.
“It may therefore also mean that these lights will come on during the daytime when the ambient light conditions deteriorate, like during a storm. Every effort has been made to not unnecessarily waste energy, and therefore these luminaries are based on more energy efficient LED technology. This, in conjunction with the automated control of these lights, ensures energy efficiency,” said Mr Mona.
