Circular lighting by Signify

Signify logo
Type of organisation or company
Country
Netherlands
City
Eindhoven
Language for original content
Key Area
Scope
Ongoing
Yes
Description

Signify was the first lighting company to develop 3D printing of luminaires at scale, which it is gradually expanding through facilities around the globe. 3D printed luminaires consume less energy in material extraction and manufacturing, and the material has a 47% lower carbon footprint compared to a conventionally manufactured metal luminaire. Savings increase further when printed using recycled materials such as compact discs and the 3D printed luminaire material it uses can be recycled.

As part of its commitment to doubling its positive impact on the environment and society, Signify has committed to doubling its circular revenues to 32% by the end of 2025. This concerns revenues from lighting products that can be reprinted, refurbished, reused or recycled, avoiding waste and preserving value, including revenues from 3D printed luminaires, reusable components and recyclable parts, and light as a service business models.

In 2020, the company also introduced streetlights with reusable components and recyclable parts. By replacing parts, the lifetime of the entire streetlight can be extended. And with regards to lights as a service, users pay for the light, not the equipment. Signify then takes care of installation, performance, and servicing of lighting, allowing businesses to focus on becoming more efficient and economical. Innovative financing options for energy-efficient LED lighting can reduce both up-front and operational costs. At the end of the service contract, the lighting system can be upgraded and reused, or all materials and parts can be returned for repurposing or recycling, to minimise material waste and reduce environmental impact.

Main results
  • Signify continues to see a growing interest in its circular lighting offers.
  • In the first quarter of 2021, circular revenues were 19% of the total, rising from a baseline of 16% in 2019.
  • Its "Light as a service model" has been used by Bruynzeel for instance, a home goods and storage company in Panningen, the Netherlands, paying a fixed monthly fee for lighting.
  • Bruynzeel reduced its energy costs by 73% and reduced its carbon footprint by 231 tonnes CO2, along with minimised maintenance and the potential to benefit from technological innovations as they occur without additional purchases.