1. Objectives of a needs-based MDE approach

For the sake of clarity, and to avoid any confusion, it should be noted that whenever reference is made to the notion of energy or electricity demand management (EDM), this will only apply to the field of public lighting.

The first step in implementing an MDE approach is to define its objectives. And while the main objective of an MDE approach is indeed to optimize energy consumption in response to lighting needs, the context in which this approach is actually undertaken can vary from one objective to another.

In fact, experience shows that an MDE approach is rarely motivated in and of itself. It is more likely to stem from a local issue (such as the need to reduce the community's energy bill), itself part of a context (a sharp rise in energy bills) that will require a MDE approach. It is precisely by understanding the context and the issues...