Popular in the world of retail and commerce, dynamic signage is based on the activation of digital screens and involves a certain amount of energy consumption. To limit its impact on the environment, it is therefore no longer rare to choose to switch off the signs at night. So, how can you use digital signage while being eco-responsible? Explanations.
Focus on the decree on energy tension
In France, the government encourages businesses to Switch off their signs at night for a few years now. Illuminated ads should be inactive during specific time slots. It is a legal obligation aimed at accelerating the energy transition. The article R581-35 of the Environmental Code requires all buildings, shops and businesses to turn off their light advertisements between 1 am and 6 am. Some installations are not affected, such as train stations and airports. As part of the energy sobriety plan deployed by the government, the generalization extends to all municipalities and provides for the complete extinction of advertising in the event of a high voltage situation in the electrical system. Decree No. 22-1331 of October 17, 2022 adds this notification. This includes digital advertising and other advertising will join the list set out in article L.143-6-2 of the Energy Code by June 1, 2023.
Cenareo, a company ahead of its time
In addition to Switch off the signs at night, other actions help to drastically reduce energy consumption. Aware of environmental issues and in an eco-responsible approach, Cenareo did not wait for legislation to worry about the consumption of its equipment. The more responsible hardware proposed by manufacturers and designers aims to reduce the energy consumed by digital signage screens. For its part, the content management system includes a whole dimension dedicated to controlling the switching on of digital screens. In addition to being a considerable gesture for the planet, it is also a saving to be made on energy bills for all actors using our solution.
Define ignition schedules
The retail digital signage eco-responsible starts with setting the ignition times. It is possible to reduce energy consumption as much as possible by opting for an adapted time slot. This is the case with Cenareo, which integrates this functionality into its software: even remotely, it is possible to control your entire fleet of screens. The screens stop when stores close and can be set automatically to avoid any omissions or be activated according to the passage of customers. With such a system, Switch off the signs at night is no longer a constraint, the management of the dynamic poster is facilitated.
Exceptions to the decree on energy tension
Several installations are excluded from the decree which aims to Switch off the signs at night. Airports, train stations and urban furniture used for transport services are in particular concerned. Let's take stock.
Digital signage in train stations and airports
Dynamic displays and other still image advertising panels installed near airports, train stations, and bus stations are exempt from regulation. Indeed, they are not subject to the decree. Nevertheless, they are only tolerated under certain conditions and may only be functional during service hours.
Urban furniture used for transport services (bus, tram, etc.)
In the public transport sector, there are also exceptions. At present, street furniture installed near bus, subway or tram stops can continue to display advertisements and leave digital screens active. However, outside of service hours, street furniture must be switched off. The obligation to extinguish illuminated advertisements placed on street furniture (DOOH) will only come into force on June 1, 2023.
Also note that, in the context of certain events, a prefectural municipal decree may stop or extend the opening of such communication media.
The closed places
The obligation to Switch off the signs at night applies throughout the country, but only targets outdoor advertising. Those located inside enclosed spaces are therefore an exception to the rule. Shops, shopping centers, train stations, stadiums or even underground car parks are not involved.
Penalties incurred for non-compliance with regulations
As of October 5, 2022, not Switch off the signs at night is subject to heavy sanctions. In the event of non-compliance with the regulations, the prefect issues a formal notice. Retailers and businesses have five days to comply with the recent decree. Otherwise, they face a fine varying between 1,500 and 7,500 euros depending on whether they are a natural or legal person.
It is possible to continue using digital signage without neglecting the ecological aspect. Fight against light pollution by adopting a digital signage software adapted. Opt for screens that consume less energy, refer to the various energy labels and ensure that they are repairable. By choosing an adapted management solution, control and adjust the switching off and on of your digital screens to the second after.
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