Switzerland: SPIE completes innovative lighting and signage project for Geneva's new "Tunnel des Nations"

Published on 13 December 2023

Geneva, 13 December 2023 – SPIE Switzerland, a subsidiary of the SPIE group, the independent European leader in multi-technical services in the areas of energy and communications, completed a lighting and signage project for Geneva's "Tunnel des Nations" last September. In 2020, SPIE was commissioned to install equipment in the new 1000-metre tunnel in Le Grand-Saconnex(1) and provided the know-how and expertise required to carry out this project, which combines technical innovation with sustainable development. The Tunnel des Nations project, consisting in lighting and signage lots, is a model of innovation, precision engineering and sustainable urban design and the result of a fruitful collaboration between the Canton of Geneva and SPIE MTS, a Swiss subsidiary that provides its customers with support for the installation, operation and maintenance of low-energy facilities.


SPIE MTS is proud of the consistent and safe lighting it has provided in the tunnel, the specifications of which comply with the standards set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). All the teams involved are satisfied that their contribution will have an immediate impact and allow traffic to move more efficiently and safely from the motorway, therefore improving access via Route de Ferney in Le Grand-Saconnex.

Project manager Mickael Vincent and his team met tight deadlines for the installation of 300 lights on a 2000-metre guide rail, control cabinets, and 250 ground, kerb and central lane markers. In addition, the SPIE MTS team handled the installation of 70 permanent and dynamic traffic signs, the implementation of loop-based counting systems, and the design and installation of control cabinets for the entire lighting and signage system.

Tunnel des Nations at the cutting edge of lighting innovation

Sustainable design: the project showcases the commitment of SPIE MTS to sustainable development. The tunnel integrates highly energy-efficient lighting systems in addition to traffic and lighting management systems. The lighting management system also adapts to external conditions such as daytime, night-time and sunlight.

Safety and security are of paramount importance in the Tunnel des Nations. State-of-the-art surveillance systems, emergency response systems and robust fire prevention measures have been incorporated into the tunnel's design from the outset to give all tunnel users peace of mind. A continuous guide rail that allows people to leave the tunnel in the event of an emergency is the first of its kind in the region.

Benefits for the local community: the Tunnel des Nations will improve the quality of life of the residents of Geneva in addition to transport. Reducing traffic jams on the Grand-Saconnex motorway junction and in the Nations district, improving air quality and increasing accessibility will all help to make Geneva a healthier and more liveable city.

The Managing Director of SPIE MTS, Roberto Patera, expressed his excitement about the project: "Our achievements in connection with the Tunnel des Nations reflect our ability to integrate the latest innovations into the infrastructure under our management. This project demonstrates our commitment to sustainable urban development, technological progress and better living conditions for those in the communities to whom we provide services.".

As Geneva ushers in a new era of intelligent and sustainable urban infrastructure, SPIE MTS remains at the forefront of the transition by providing state-of-the-art lighting and signage solutions.

(1) Le Grand-Saconnex is a municipality of the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland.

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