In 2005, the Heerenveen municipal council approved new policy frameworks for lighting in public spaces. This led to the adoption of the Lighting Policy Plan 2008-2011 in 2008. Central to the policy was the question of what functions lighting public spaces should fulfil. This question also implies the question whether there are (better) alternatives to fulfil certain functions? In addition, the premise of that policy was that lighting should be more conscious. In other words Off where possible and only on when necessary.
Why do we need light poles? Is it necessary to have so many light points and why can't we light public space more optimally (and together with the user) and make it more sustainable? Many municipalities are in the process of making public lighting more energy-efficient, mostly following the beaten path. Sixty per cent of public lighting costs are spent on public lighting in residential areas. There are many (environmental) gains to be made here.
All this led to the idea Light Challenge in 2010 and the elaboration of the first Challenge in 2011 (municipalities of Heerenveen, Groningen and Assen). After the success of the first edition, the Light Challenge was organised again but nationwide in 2013, 2015, 2018 and 2021. Participating municipalities were Harlingen, Leeuwarden, Smallingerland, Ameland, Groningen, Assen, Hardenberg, Almelo, Nijmegen, Venray, Bergen op Zoom, Rotterdam, Leiden, Amsterdam and Almere. But many companies and educational institutions also participated.
As initiator of the Light Challenge design competition, the municipality of Heerenveen has brought change to the world of public lighting by looking/doing things differently and working together with education, entrepreneurs and government. An initiative that receives national recognition and is appreciated. In addition, it is now a unique collaboration in the field of lighting, sustainability, energy, green, waste reuse and innovation.