ULOR

This ratio determines the proportion of luminous flux emitted into the upper half-space, and thus indicates the degree of light emission above the lamp holder. The most favourable ULOR is found in lamps having a luminaire with a flat glass, directed at 90 degrees to the vertical axis. A luminaire that provides a complete cut-off of light in the upper half-space has a ULOR=0.0%.

Why is ULOR crucial in outdoor lighting?

Nowadays, with sustainability and energy efficiency becoming a priority, the ULOR factor takes on particular importance in the design of lighting systems for public spaces. Road, street or park lighting should not only provide adequate visibility, but also minimise the negative impact on the environment.

Use in various types of lighting

Road lighting

On motorways and motorways, it is crucial to provide drivers with excellent visibility without glare. Lamps with a low ULOR, preferably 0.0%, are ideal for this purpose. They direct all of the light onto the road surface, eliminating upward light scattering that could distract drivers or cause light pollution to surrounding areas.

Street lighting

In the case of urban and residential streets, in addition to the safety of road users, the comfort of residents is also important. The light coming through the windows of buildings can disturb sleep and daily life. Luminaires with low ULOR significantly reduce this problem by directing light where it is needed - onto pavements and roadways.

Park and decorative lighting

Even for lighting of an aesthetic nature, such as park lamps or illuminating monuments, solutions with an optimum ULOR can be found. Modern decorative luminaires can combine attractive design with energy efficiency and minimised light pollution.

Benefits of low ULOR

Energy savings - light is directed to where it is needed, allowing the use of lower wattage light sources.
Reduced light pollution - less light scattered upwards means brighter night skies and less impact on ecosystems.
Improved visibility - concentrated light output provides better visibility on roads and pavements.
Improved user comfort - reduced glare and light entering buildings.
Compliance with environmental standards - more and more regions are introducing legislation to limit light pollution.

Modern technology and ULOR

Developments in LED technology have greatly facilitated the design of luminaires with low ULOR. LEDs can be oriented more easily than traditional light sources, allowing precise control of light distribution. In addition, the ability to dynamically control LED lighting allows luminous intensity to be adjusted to actual needs, further reducing potential light pollution.

Road lighting makes it possible to navigate safely in traffic areas - it allows the terrain or road geometry to be correctly identified. It increases the comfort of residents, drivers and cyclists in built-up areas. However, it is important that the lamps do not pollute the environment and do not have a negative impact on users. The problem of light pollution affects not only people, but also their surroundings. It is therefore important to adapt the lamps to the demanding outdoor conditions. Skver luminaires with a ULOR <1* (* applies to selected indices) have been developed in the spirit of the Nature Centric Lighting concept, with ecology and the safety of both humans and animals in mind.

Smart lighting systems

When combined with lighting management systems, low ULOR luminaires can operate even more efficiently. Motion sensors, twilight sensors or adaptive control systems allow the lighting parameters to be adapted to the current conditions, providing optimum illumination with minimum energy consumption and minimal environmental impact.

ULOR regulations and standards

Increasingly stringent outdoor lighting standards are being introduced in many countries, including maximum ULOR values for different zones and applications. Knowledge of these requirements is crucial for lighting designers, urban planners and local authorities.

The future of lighting and ULOR

With increasing environmental awareness and the drive to optimise energy consumption, further tightening of ULOR standards can be expected. Manufacturers of luminaires will be forced to design increasingly efficient solutions, which will contribute to the development of innovative technologies in this field. At the same time, advances in lighting control systems will make it possible to adapt lighting parameters even better to actual needs, further reducing potential light pollution even when luminaires with a non-zero ULOR are used.

FAQ

What exactly does the ULOR value mean?

The ULOR value is expressed as a percentage and determines what proportion of the total luminous flux emitted by the luminaire is directed above the horizon line. For example, ULOR=5% means that 5% of the light is emitted upwards, while 95% is directed downwards.

What ULOR value is best for street lighting?

For street lighting, especially in residential areas and on major urban arteries, luminaires with a ULOR of no more than 3% and preferably equal to 0.0% are recommended.

Should we always aim for ULOR=0.0%?

In most cases of road and street lighting, yes. However, in some applications, such as decorative lighting of historic parts of cities or parks, slightly higher values may be acceptable if justified on aesthetic grounds. Nevertheless, modern technology allows attractive luminaires to be designed with very low ULOR.

How do I check the ULOR of a luminaire?

The ULOR value should be given in the luminaire's technical specification provided by the manufacturer. Photometric documentation can also be requested, which provides detailed information on light distribution.

Is it cost-effective to replace old luminaires with new ones with lower ULOR?

Yes, retrofitting lighting often results in significant energy savings that cover the investment costs in the long term. In addition, modern luminaires provide better light quality and less pollution.

What impact does a high ULOR have on the environment?

High ULOR contributes to the phenomenon of light pollution, which can disrupt the natural diurnal cycles of plants and animals, affect bird migrations, interfere with astronomical observations and waste energy.

Does legislation regulate ULOR limits?

Yes, in many countries there are regulations specifying maximum ULOR values for different zones and applications. In Poland, these values are specified in lighting standards and sometimes in local light pollution protection regulations.

ULOR

Why is ULOR crucial in outdoor lighting?

Use in various types of lighting

Road lighting

Street lighting

Park and decorative lighting

Benefits of low ULOR

Modern technology and ULOR

Skver LED S (Z1 MF)

Skver LED S (Z2 MF)

Skver LED S (R MF)

Tiara 2 LED S

Tiara 2 LED M

Tiara LED Pro

Strado LED S

Strado LED M

Strado LED S 24V

Astra LED

Astra LED 12-24V

Astra LED Alu

Tiara 2 LED XS

Mitra LED

Mitra LED Basic

Smart lighting systems

ULOR regulations and standards

The future of lighting and ULOR

FAQ

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