Berlin, a city known for its unique atmosphere for almost two centuries, is on the verge of a transformation. The city’s streets, romantically lit by the soft, flickering flames of gas lamps, are set to adopt a new glow — that of electric LEDs. A decision driven by cost and environmental concerns, this switch has been applauded by climate activists but lamented by heritage advocates.
A brief history of Berlin’s gas lamps
Gas lamps have been an intrinsic part of Berlin’s scenery since 1826, with their intricate metalwork and charming designs symbolizing an era of craftsmanship and elegance. Once numbering around 80,000, the majority of these lamps were destroyed during the Second World War. However, post-war, Berlin opted to restore their gas lamps, refusing to over-rely on a single energy source, a decision that manifested their independence from communist East Berlin.
Why dismantle Berlin’s gas lamps
Before the commencement of the replacement process in 2011, Berlin had a network of almost 44,000 gas lamps, primarily situated in the city’s western half. The plan proposed by city authorities was to replace most of these, leaving only 3,000 intact in older, village-like suburbs. However, by 2022, the remaining number had dwindled to approximately 23,000. Accelerated dismantling began in light of apprehensions that Russia might curtail its gas supply to Germany following its invasion of Ukraine.
The economic and environmental benefits of switching to LEDs
Proponents of this change argue that replacing the lamps with electric LEDs would result in substantial cost savings and be a more sustainable choice. According to city authorities, the switch could curtail Berlin’s carbon dioxide emissions by 9,200 tons annually. Furthermore, they compare the energy consumption of a four-mantle gas lamp to that of a three-person household, making electric lamps a clear winner from both economic and environmental standpoints. Steven Volker, a leading light technology expert, labels the continued usage of gas lamps as “irresponsible.” He states: “From a technological point of view, there’s no reason to keep them on the streets. They belong in a museum.”
Preserving cultural heritage: The fight for gas lamps
However, the replacements have their fair share of detractors. These individuals perceive the gas lamps as a valuable piece of Berlin’s cultural, artistic, and practical heritage. Bertold Kujath, head of the Gaslight Culture Foundation, says: “I can’t imagine Berlin without gas lights.” The opponents assert that the city is not only dismantling a working infrastructure but also a part of its unique character. They suggest using electric lamps in new neighborhoods while retaining the gas lamps in the older districts. Kujath argues that even the latest LEDs fail to replicate the ambiance of gaslit lamps, and electric lamps attract and kill significantly more insects.
Despite these ongoing debates, the future of street gas lights in Berlin appears uncertain. However, heritage advocates like Kujath continue to champion their preservation. He concludes: “Gas lamps are unique to Berlin, just like gondolas are to Venice and trams are to San Francisco. We have to understand them as cultural objects that need preservation.”
A glimpse into the future: Berlin streets post-gas lamps
As the last flickers of gas lamps fade into history, Berlin stands at the crossroads of modernity and heritage. Regardless of which path the city chooses, its nights will continue to glow, albeit in a different light.
