Wednesday January 21st 2026
Hailes Quarry Park, Wester Hailes
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
New solar hybrid lighting has been installed by Signify, the world leader in connected LED light systems, across Edinburgh parks in the aim of making parks safer and more welcoming for residents and visitors.
The City of Edinburgh Council has introduced the innovative lighting system in Baronscourt Park, Hailes Quarry Park and Ferniehill, with an off-grid solar solution installed at Dundas.
This makes the capital the first UK city to implement this type of connected solar hybrid lighting in parks.
The project includes both new lighting in previously unlit areas and upgrades to existing infrastructure where lighting levels were insufficient.
Supporting the city’s climate goals, the hybrid lights use solar energy wherever possible and automatically switch to grid power when needed, meaning the lights won’t fail all year round.
Smart sensors dim lights when paths are empty and increase brightness when people approve which isn’t common in the city, aiming to improve safety for both pedestrians and cyclists whilst also reducing energy use.
The council is hoping that the improved lighting encourages an increased use of parks during the evening hours, which can support active travel, wellbeing and community use of Edinburgh’s green spaces.
Smart dimming also protects parks wildlife, limiting lighting to areas and times it is needed.
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener explained:
“Working with Signify on these park lighting projects has been transformative for our city. The innovative solar-powered lighting system has not only enhanced safety for park users during evening hours but also aligns perfectly with our sustainability and climate goals.
“By reducing grid energy consumption by 53% and minimizing ecological disruption, this project sets a new benchmark for environmentally sensitive urban development. I’m also pleased that the technology has been rolled out in three other parks, namely Ferniehill, Hailes Quarry and Dundas.
“The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re proud to lead the way with a solution that balances safety, sustainability, and innovation. This collaboration demonstrates how technology and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand to benefit both people and nature.
“This initiative sets a new standard for sustainable and connected public lighting systems. I’m proud that Edinburgh has taken the lead here as the first UK city to implement such a scheme.”
Michelle McLaughlin, Key Account Manager, added:
“The vision for this project was rooted in environmental responsibility and community empowerment. The Council aimed to enhance safety by illuminating park pathways while minimizing reliance on grid electricity and protecting the park’s ecosystem.
“The solution also sought to adapt dynamically to user activity and provide actionable data for future improvements. We are proud to be a part of such a great initiative and are happy that our solutions can benefit the visitors of the parks.”
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