NorDark-DT: A digital twin for urban lighting infrastructure planning and analysis

Abstract

The implementation of sustainable urban lighting infrastructure is of paramount importance to promote healthy habits, mitigate the impact of light pollution on humans and wildlife, and balance out energy consumption. However, the analysis of alternatives for implementing lighting interventions in urban spaces is a laborious and time-consuming task, often involving the use of multiple tools. Also, the design of lighting infrastructure often demands a balance of conflicting needs and variables (e.g., aesthetics, human perception, impact on wildlife, and energy consumption). In this paper, we introduce NorDark-DT, an urban digital twin to support urban lighting infrastructure planning and analysis. We present the main requirements addressed in its design and development, its architecture and components, and illustrate its use in compelling usage scenarios related to the assessment of lighting intervention options in two study areas in Ålesund (Norway) and Uppsala (Sweden). We also discuss challenges and lessons learned during the development of NorDark-DT, providing valuable insights to developers, stakeholders, and practitioners interested in the creation of urban digital twins or similar tools.