La Laguna’s Groundbreaking Christmas Lighting Model Set to Save Nearly €2 Million

Next week, La Laguna will unveil its innovative Christmas lighting system, which is projected to save the municipality nearly two million euros compared to traditional rental methods. This significant financial benefit marks a transformative step for the city as it embraces a more sustainable and autonomous approach to holiday decorations.

A New Era for Holiday Decorations

The initiative, as articulated by Municipal Services Councillor Fran Hernández, signifies a pivotal change in how the city manages its festive lighting. By progressively acquiring lighting systems instead of renting them, the Council aims to achieve substantial cost reductions, enhance operational autonomy, and establish a more sustainable model for Christmas lighting.

Hernández emphasized that this new model grants the municipality complete control over the design and implementation of the lighting, ensuring that it resonates with La Laguna’s unique cultural identity. He noted that all decorative materials being installed this Christmas are now owned by the Council, a result of a gradual acquisition process that has been in motion for several years. This ownership not only leads to significant savings but also optimizes public resources and lays the groundwork for future enhancements to the city’s lighting heritage.

Celebrating Local Identity Through Light

The lighting project is part of a broader initiative titled “La Laguna, the Sky of Christmas.” This theme celebrates the local identity and its connection to the stunning skies of the Canary Islands, which are renowned for their beauty and suitability for astronomical observation. The new lighting designs and compositions aim to intertwine tradition with modern technology, reflecting the cultural heritage of La Laguna while creating a festive atmosphere that symbolizes stars and constellations.

With over six million LED lights being utilized, the project prioritizes low energy consumption and longevity, ensuring that the illumination is both efficient and environmentally friendly. The use of LED technology not only reduces energy costs but also contributes to a greener holiday season, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Strategic Management for a Sustainable Future

The municipal strategy focuses on responsible management that combines the renewal of lighting designs with the reuse of existing materials. Hernández stated, “Investing in our own resources is investing in the future,” highlighting that this approach not only reduces costs but also enhances the city’s image and fosters local employment opportunities in installation and maintenance. This commitment to local employment is particularly important as it supports the community during the festive season.

This year, the Council will introduce 397 new decorative elements along with 190 light curtain boxes, significantly enhancing the lighting coverage across major streets and squares in the municipality. These additions are part of a commitment to a sustainable model that balances new acquisitions with the reuse of existing motifs, ensuring a modern and efficient lighting scheme that resonates with both residents and visitors alike.

Enhancing Urban Aesthetics and Economic Activity

The newly acquired lighting elements are designed to last between seven and ten years, with the potential for refurbishment to extend their usability. This strategy not only saves costs for the Council but also minimizes the need for complete replacements in the future, ensuring that the city can maintain its festive spirit without incurring excessive expenses.

Installation of the new lighting has already begun in various locations, including Herradores Street, San Agustín, and Obispo Rey Redondo. Additional decorations will adorn the squares of the Cathedral, Concepción, and Doctor Olivera, as well as along Barcelona Street and other key areas. The project aims to beautify the city while enhancing its urban and commercial heritage, transforming the streets of La Laguna into a vibrant visual pathway that supports shopping, leisure, and dining activities. This transformation is expected to stimulate economic growth during the festive season, drawing both locals and tourists to experience the holiday spirit in a beautifully illuminated setting.

Key points

• La Laguna’s new lighting system will save nearly €2 million compared to traditional rental models.
• The initiative is part of the “La Laguna, the Sky of Christmas” project, celebrating local identity.
• All decorative materials for this Christmas are owned by the Council, enhancing cost efficiency.
• Over six million LED lights will be used, focusing on low energy consumption and durability.
• The project includes 397 new decorative elements and 190 light curtain boxes.
• New lighting elements have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years and can be refurbished.
• The initiative aims to boost economic activity during the festive season by enhancing the urban landscape.