Group-based lighting control is a method for managing outdoor lighting systems using a centralized controller installed in a control cabinet. This setup oversees the operation of multiple lighting groups, ensuring synchronized performance.

The core of this system is a central controller installed within an electrical cabinet. The controller automates lighting schedules by activating and deactivating magnetic relays connected to different lighting groups. Diagnostics include monitoring voltage and current levels via an energy meter, which continuously tracks power consumption. The central controller communicates with software platforms through GSM or Ethernet connections, enabling remote access and configuration.

Advantages

This solution stands out for its cost-efficiency to deploy and ease of maintenance. Housing all control components in a single cabinet simplifies servicing tasks, eliminating the need for elevated work platforms and specialized equipment.

Despite its advantages, this system cannot control each luminaire individually or detect faults at the individual luminaire level, which complicates troubleshooting. Additionally, it may not be suitable for lighting networks without centralized power distribution points.

This control method is ideal for budget-conscious projects where precise fault identification is not a critical requirement. It works particularly well in smaller towns, low-traffic roads, and suburban or peripheral areas of larger cities.

Cost Considerations

Group-based lighting systems are cost-effective and require minimal initial investment. By adjusting operating schedules and allowing partial shutdowns during low-demand hours, energy savings of up to 50% can be achieved, significantly lowering electricity costs.

For three-phase networks with conventional lamps, group dimming is available using phase-cut technology (180–245 V) designed for 230 V systems. This approach can reduce energy consumption by up to 40% and extend the lifespan of lamps through soft-start functionality.

In summary, group-based lighting control systems deliver a practical and affordable solution for managing outdoor lighting. They are particularly well-suited for areas where advanced fault diagnostics are not a priority. Their centralized control mechanism and straightforward maintenance process make them a reliable option for municipalities and organizations operating within budget constraints.

While this approach may lack the diagnostic sophistication of more advanced systems, it compensates with lower deployment costs and reduced operational expenses. Overall, it offers an economical and energy-efficient choice for public lighting projects without sacrificing basic functionality and performance.