A30, Cornwall, UK
WJ Sunstone works with WJ Group to deliver highway innovation
You may be interested in the ARC system >- Arc System
- Highways
- Cornwall, UK
Summary
The A30 between Chiverton and Carland Cross is currently undergoing significant dualling upgrades as the only remaining section of the road which is single carriageway from the M5 at Exeter to Camborne. This will help alleviate congestion, provide more reliable journey times and support economic growth in the area. A key aim of the scheme is to produce enhanced environments for nature as well as deliver low-carbon solutions that align with National Highways’ net zero objectives. To support this, the Costain Jacobs Partnership employed WJ Group to provide WJ Sunstone’s ground-breaking solar powered and autonomous surveillance systems throughout three phases of the project.
972 tCO2e
Carbon Reduction
17
Solar Powered Autonomous Remote Communications (ARC) Systems
The Challenge
In Phase 1, WJ has completed the installation of 17 of WJ Sunstone’s Solar Powered Autonomous Remote Communications (ARC) Systems with attached CCTV Surveillance Cameras and Long Term Evolution (LTE) Transmitters at this location.
Traditionally temporary CCTV, such as this, would need to be powered using diesel generators or by connecting to the power grid. However, this innovative system delivers a completely net-zero operation, being powered via solar energy and integrated battery system. The carbon saving in Phase 1 alone will deliver a 972 tCO2e reduction, which is equivalent to 3,535,831 miles travelled in an average diesel car. In addition to this, the standalone unit eliminates any air pollution that would have resulted from the use of diesel generators, a significant advantage for the local population.
The Solution
Being self-contained, the ARC System can be installed and commissioned faster than traditional wired solutions, with increased efficiency in delivery and related cost savings. One way in which it does this is by removing the need for cables, as the technology is completely autonomous and streams highway surveillance in real-time across the LTE network and onto the internet for monitoring. This also has considerable safety benefits as it removes the chance of cable strikes whilst the work is ongoing.
The ARC system incorporates the latest technology and utilises high-speed, pan-tilt-zoom cameras with long-range optimised infra-red that delivers HDTV 1080p with 32x optical zoom. The real time surveillance feed will be monitored remotely in the A30 compound to support operations and traffic management there.
WJ Group Chief Executive Officer, Wayne Johnstone commented “We’re exceptionally proud of what we have been able to deliver on this scheme. The implementation of the solar CCTV units along the A30 has proven to be a more cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution compared to traditional hardwired solutions.”
This project showcases the latest technology and its potential to increase efficiency in delivering highways surveillance while reducing its impact on the environment.
I am thrilled to see the successful implementation of the ARC System on the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross Project. The innovative technology not only delivers real-time surveillance and improves safety but also significantly reduces carbon emissions and air pollution. The collaboration between Costain, WJ Group, and WJ Sunstone demonstrates how low-carbon solutions can be achieved while supporting economic growth and enhancing the environment. I believe this project sets a great example for future infrastructure projects to adopt sustainable and efficient solutions for the benefit of the environment and the local communities.
Paul Schelhaas, WJ Sunstone, General Manager
