The lamps are cooled to prevent overheating and a heating system is activated when the temperatures drop below zero Centigrade whilst the lights are off. The xenon 6000 watt lamps were chosen for their longevity, around 1,200 hours. Since their rotation sweep is 90°, they are synchronized to form a double beam in a cross that pivots around 360°. They are operated by automatically piloted computer programs. The beacon, sending out two light beams with a reach of 80 kilometres, is composed of 4 'marine' motorised projectors. On 31 December 1999 at the approach of midnight, the entire world will discover the beacon and the Tower's sparking lights. In 2020, the 28 projectors that illuminate the steps in the outstretched portions of the four pillars will be replaced to reduce the installed power by 80%. In December 2019, the four 2000W projectors that had illuminated the antenna since 1985 were replaced by LED versions that are 10 times less powerful and consume 10 times less energy. The last operation took place in spring 2019.Ĭontrary to popular beliefs, the Tower’s nightly illumination, it’s golden glow, only represents about 4% of the monument’s annual energy expenses. Since that time and every four years, a team of SETE technicians has replaced the 336 projector bulbs that wrap the Eiffel Tower in golden light every evening. Their improved output of light preserves all the beauty of the overall appearance.

an energy consumption saving of around 40%.

In 2004, they were replaced by projectors with an electrical power of 600 watts as opposed to the previous 1KW, i.e. This is activated upon nightfall by the sensors. The projectors are turned on in under 10 minutes.

Spectacle summer nights