Paraguay’s National Electricity Administration (ANDE) started a significant project to modernise the public lighting system in the city centre of Luque, near to Asunción. The initiative aims to improve public safety, night-time visibility, and energy efficiency across a key urban area. The public lighting upgrade works will cover the zone demarcated by the streets Cnel. Oviedo/Sportivo Luqueño, Avenida Corrales, Rojas Silva, and San Martín.
This project represents a substantial investment in the city’s core infrastructure, promising a modern and more reliable lighting network for residents and businesses. The upgrade is expected to have an impact on the daily lives of thousands of people who live and work in the area.
A comprehensive technological overhaul
The public lighting upgrade involves the installation and connection of 177 advanced LED public lighting fixtures. Each of these high-performance units has a power rating of 190 watts, providing better and more consistent illumination compared to the existing technology. In addition to the new lights, the project includes the laying of 177 metres of pre-assembled low-voltage conductors. This new wiring is essential to support the modernised system effectively and ensure its long-term reliability.
Furthermore, the overhaul will see the removal of 117 outdated public light fittings of various wattages. These older, less efficient units will be systematically replaced with the new LED technology. Consequently, the new system will offer a significantly higher luminous output while consuming less energy, marking a key step forward for the city’s infrastructure.
Direct benefits for the community
This extensive modernisation effort is projected to directly and indirectly benefit approximately 5,000 local people. The enhanced lighting is a critical component in improving public safety, particularly during night-time hours, by creating a more secure environment for pedestrians. Moreover, the increased visibility is expected to benefit drivers, potentially contributing to a reduction in traffic incidents.
The transition to LED technology is also a significant move towards greater energy efficiency. The project strategically targets one of the busiest and most circulated areas within Luque’s urban core, maximising its positive impact.
Investment and collaborative funding
The public lighting upgrade initiative is being implemented through the framework of National Public Tender LPN No. 1743/2023. The total investment for this crucial modernisation work amounts to ₲673,872,654 (approximately US$104.000). This sum is being financed through a collaborative partnership between the national and municipal governments.
ANDE and the Municipality of Luque are each contributing equal shares to fund the project, demonstrating a shared commitment to improving public services and essential infrastructure for the citizens of Luque.
Future infrastructure developments announced
During a ceremony to mark the commencement of the works, the president of ANDE, Félix Sosa, made another significant announcement regarding future investments in the region. Sosa revealed plans for the construction and interconnection of a new substation to be located in Zárate Isla. This new facility is designed to have a capacity of 120 MVA and will operate at 220/66 kV.
The primary purpose of this infrastructure project is to support and sustain the rapid real estate and social growth currently taking place in Luque. This investment, according to ANDE, will ensure that the city’s electricity grid can comfortably meet future demand from new residential and commercial developments. The new substation project will be executed via National Public Tender No. 1840/25, with an estimated investment of US$74 million.
A strategic vision for national development
Félix Sosa explained that these large-scale investments are being made in accordance with Paraguay’s strategic directives.
“These investments are made in compliance with the directives of the President of the Republic, Santiago Peña, as part of the actions carried out to improve the quality of life of our compatriots, providing greater opportunities and greater security to the public,” Sosa said.
Local leaders welcome the project
Local officials expressed strong support for the lighting modernisation initiative. National Deputy Diego Candia welcomed the start of the project, highlighting its significant relevance for the city’s continued development. Candia also noted that the improved lighting will directly contribute to greater security for both the residents of Luque and those who visit the city.
The Mayor of Luque echoed these sentiments, pointing out the city’s recent transformation. He stated that Luque has become a dynamic hub for real estate development, witnessing a remarkable 70% growth in the sector. This expansion, he explained, has been driven by significant private and public investments.
The mayor concluded that this progress is now being complemented and secured by the modernisation of the public lighting system, which is seen as a crucial element supporting the city’s impressive economic and social growth.
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