Operator will become a global Internet of Things (IoT) managed connectivity partner for Philips Lighting as part of the agreement
Vodafone has struck an agreement to become a managed connectivity for Phillips lighting in a deal which will enable city authorities worldwide to implement smart street lighting systems.
The Phillips CityTouch lighting management system will use Vodafone’s M2M connectivity to connect street lighting. Every light will have a Vodafone SIM, and the technology will give city authorities the ability to monitor and manage street lighting.
Vodafone M2M director Erik Brenneis, said: “Lighting plays a key role in the smart city. Our agreement with Philips will see this technology transforming cities across the world backed by Vodafone’s world-leading innovation, technologies and networks.”
Vodafone is the global leader in machine-to-machine technology, according to a study by Analysys Mason last year.
The operator claims that the deal with Phillips could help local authorities make additional savings of around 30-40 per cent on standard LED lighting spend.
It can also reduce maintenance costs, as the management system gives real time analysis on the status of each light.
Phillips Lighting SVP and head of strategy and marketing Bill Bien added: “Just less than 12 per cent of the world’s street lights are LED and less than two per cent are connected.
“Robust, reliable wireless connectivity will help make this happen, linking streetlights with sensors, devices and management systems. By partnering with Vodafone we can work together to take light beyond illumination, helping to make cities more energy efficient, safer and ultimately more liveable.”