‘We can now take evening walks’ – how modernised street lighting has improved community safety in Andrushivka and Radomyshyl  

From a pensioner to an athlete, five residents share their thoughts on the changes their respective cities have undergone and how these improvements contribute to their overall well-being. 

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• Around a total of EUR 660,000 in EU grant funds, managed by Nefco, was used to successfully modernise street lighting systems in Andrushivka and Radomyshyl in Zhytomyr Oblast, northern Ukraine.
• These investments play a vital role in enhancing community safety, fostering resilience, and contributing to the overall well-being of those who call these places home.

Before energy efficiency modernisation projects were carried out in the municipalities of Andrushivka and Radomyshyl in Zhytomyr Oblast, a province in northern Ukraine, their respective street lighting networks faced significant challenges.

Photos (left to right): A modernised street lighting system in Radomyshl; a new energy-efficient lighting system brightens up a street in Andrushivka – Radomyshl City Council and Andrushivka City Council

In Andrushivka, most of these problems stemmed from the use of obsolete fluorescent, mercury, sodium and incandescent lamps that frequently broke down. In Radomyshyl, meanwhile, only around 400 of the approximately 1,000 luminaires in its inventory were in operation.

Around a total of EUR 660,000 in EU grant funds, managed by Nefco, was used to successfully modernise the street lighting systems in both cities. The investment enables the Andrushivka and Radomyshyl city councils to reduce overall electricity consumption and save money through the implementation of energy-efficient measures and LED lamps. Above all, the improvements play a vital role in enhancing community safety, fostering resilience, and contributing to the overall well-being of those who call these places home.

From a pensioner to an athlete, five residents share their thoughts on the changes their respective cities have undergone and how their lives have become better as a result. 

Nadiia

I have been a resident of Andrushivka since 1974, having been sent to work here shortly after graduating from university.

Over the years, the city has gone through various changes, with some notably positive developments. Among these is the improvement in city lighting, which previously went unnoticed. With the installation of new lampposts and lighting fixtures, the overall illumination has improved considerably. Now, even pensioners like me feel more secure venturing outside after dark.

Now, even pensioners like me feel more secure venturing outside after dark.

Nadiia

Nazar

I work as a physical education teacher at a local school and have been a resident of Andrushivka throughout my life. My passion for sports extends to training the local children’s football team, called Fortuna.

I love my city and find comfort in its familiar surroundings. This year, I was pleasantly surprised by the introduction of new street lighting. The difference between the previous lighting system and the current one is significant. I have received numerous positive comments from both parents and children who now feel safer returning home after evening training sessions

I love my city and find comfort in its familiar surroundings.

Nazar

Volodymyr

For over eight years, I have been living in Andrushivka, where I work as a bus driver. As someone who is fond of fishing and outdoor activities, I was immediately charmed by the city and decided to buy property here. The natural surroundings are particularly beautiful, with a river, forest, and park in the central part of the city.

Our new, energy-efficient lighting fixtures allow me to navigate the streets with greater ease and provide smoother and safer transportation for passengers. This is important for drivers since road visibility has improved – pedestrians and other motorists are more clearly discernible. I often visit Kyiv for work, and I must admit, the lighting in Andrushivka has become much better than in some neighbourhoods of our capital.

Our new, energy-efficient lighting fixtures allow me to navigate the streets with greater ease.

Volodymyr

Serhii

I serve as a director of the utility company Blahoustrii Mista in Radomyshl. This street lighting reconstruction project stands as a genuine triumph for our city. The new lighting system has not only enhanced safety but has also introduced a delightful atmosphere and cosiness. Residents can now take evening walks, enjoy leisurely strolls through the streets, and simply relax.

This street lighting reconstruction project stands as a genuine triumph for our city.

Serhii

Oleksandr

I am an athlete and serve as a referee of the Futsal Extra League. I am also the head of sports facilities in the Radomyshl community. I am particularly positive about these changes, especially during the winter. The new street lighting has significantly enhanced the brightness and safety of our streets in the evening and at night. The most notable difference I have observed is that now, I feel safer and more comfortable when walking home when it is dark, which could be late at night or early in the morning.

I am particularly positive about these changes, especially during the winter.

Oleksandr

For further information, please contact:

Ronny Nilsson, Senior Adviser, Nefco
+358 10 618 06 42, ronny.nilsson@nefco.int

Alexey Dumik, Technical Adviser, Nefco
+380 50 352 3383, a.dumik@nefco.org.ua

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