Berlin's Brandenburg Gate to get new LED lighting system

Berlin's Brandenburg Gate is to be fitted with new, more energy-efficient façade lighting. 

The old lighting system on the landmark in the German capital is to be replaced with new LED lights, Berlin's property management authority announced on Monday. 

The gate's appearance at night is not expected to change as a result.

The current system, which dates from 2002, is increasingly prone to faults and spare parts are getting harder to obtain, the operators say. 

The new LED technology is not only expected to be more reliable but also to consume up to 40% less energy. A total of 281 lights will be replaced as part of the project. The modernization of the entire system will cost around €1.2 million ($1.35 million).

Construction work will begin on Tuesday, and parts of the arch will be cordoned off while the work is in progress. 

The central passageway will remain open and will also be illuminated at night. The new lighting system is due to come into operation in early December.