LED Streetlights Continue to Save Councils Money

Many councils across the UK are recognising that LED lights are a viable option for saving money. We’ve reported on a number of councils making the big switch who have noted the huge savings to be made. The market town of Kingsbridge has recently seen new LED streetlights installed as part of its £10.2m scheme. This move aims to help reduce carbon emissions as well as save money.

The project is seeing over 5,000 streetlight columns being replaced with LED lights. A spokesman said that it is hoped the project will save nearly a third on the council’s existing energy costs. Older columns will be replaced by newer columns with LED lights, which will ensure reduced maintenance so funds can be channelled into different areas.

Taking a Closer Look at the LED

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are a relative newcomer on the lighting scene, but they’re a key development due to their potential to help conserve energy without losing out on quality of light. LEDs can be found in many different devices such as traffic lights, microwaves, and digital clocks. Unlike the traditional light bulbs, LEDs don’t contain the delicate filament, which is prone to burning out or breaking under stress. LEDs create light via the movement of electrons through their circuit, and will last as long as the transistor on the circuit does.

Thousands of Hours of Light

The humble LED light is a small powerhouse and can reliably produce thousands of hours of lights. Even when an LED light is coming to the end of its life, it will fade out, rather than produce flickering, which is characteristic of traditional filament bulbs. This directly translates to reduced maintenance and checking, as LEDs will simply carry on producing quality light and not need changing as often. With no need to get out the ladder as frequently, or call in a specialist to change the lights, councils and businesses can make savings.

Easy on the Human Eye

Traditional lights bulbs come in a limited range of colours, the cheapest one being a yellow light, which wasn’t always easy on the eyes or appealing. LED lights are available in a range of colours, one of the most popular being a natural white light that is similar to sunlight. This shade is easier on the human eye and so can be an ideal option for streetlights.

Making the Investment back Quickly

One key advantage of LED lights is their ability to use less energy to generate bright lights. For many councils and public sector organisations, operational costs are a huge area of concern. They need to keep the lights on, but with rising energy costs, they may have to cut back in other areas. LED lights can help remove this difficult decision. Whilst LED lights require investing in, the payback can be seen within the first few months in reduced energy bills. Over time, the LED lights pay for themselves again and again, helping councils to save money and do their bit for the environment.