Russian steelmaker NLMK Group has released the preliminary results of its year-long lighting modernisation project across its Russian sites.

The project, conducted in partnership with Philips, reduced energy by 60% and resulted in an ongoing annual saving of almost 500 million roubles (US$7.3 million).

Annual energy consumption at Novolipetsk was reduced by 15 MW, which is equal to 375 million roubles per year (US$5.4 million).

Lighting systems at Novolipetsk (2010-2011), Stoilensky, NSMMZ, Altai-Koks, Dolomit and Stagdok (2012-2014), NLMK Metalware and VIZ-Steel (2015).

Since the project began in 2010, investment in the project stands at 636 million roubles (US$9.3 million).

Obsolete light fittings were replaced by highly efficient modern lighting ,which provides high luminescent performance and optical system efficiency, claims NLMK, as well as improved environmental friendliness and fixture lifespan.

Increasing lighting efficiency has been a strategic goal for NLMK, according to Alexander Starchenko, the company’s vice president for energy.