Led street lights are commanding major attention these days. If you and your city’s administrators have been thinking about changing over to LED lighting, you may have had some questions about them for some time now. You may be asking yourself, “What’s the big deal with these particular lights?”, and, “Why does my city need them?” This is a great question, and we’re glad you asked.
They Have Longevity
People waste a ton of money using street lights that don’t last very long. That’s why some cities are in the process of completely transitioning to LED street lights. LED (light-emitting diode) lights have a diode also known as a semiconductor made of a substance like silicon that conducts electricity. The diode gives off light when it receives an electric current. LED street lights can last up to 5 to 7 times longer than regular light bulbs. Fluorescent light bulbs last about 750 to 1,000 hours while incandescent light bulbs last about 10,000 or more hours. Last year, Las Vegas converted 42,000 street lights.
They Help the Environment
Since LED lights last longer, they make less waste. Ordinary street lights last about 20,000 hours while LED street lights last more than 70,000 hours. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that if the use of LEDs increases over the next 15 years, this will decrease the amount of electricity used for lighting and it will tremendously reduce carbon emissions. Furthermore, it will also reduce the need for new power plants.
They Save Money
At first, LED street lights may seem expensive. However, their cost is reducing over time. Furthermore, their expense is compensated for through their longevity. For example, if you purchase a regular streetlight that costs $99, you will be replacing it after 20,000 hours. As previously mentioned, the LED lights last for more than 70,000 hours. Therefore, the regular street lights will cost more because you will have to purchase 3 times as more of them to match the lifespan of the LED lights. Furthermore, since LED lights use just 2 – 17 watts, they burn more efficiently, saving more energy, which will help to lower electricity costs in the long run. Lowering your electricity bill will also lower the city’s expenses overall.
If you have more questions about light-emitting diodes, be sure to consult your preferred streetscape solutions company like Brandon Industries. As you and your administrators make the decision of whether or not to transition to LED street lights, remember that they will save your city money over time. Also, don’t forget that they have long lifespans and that they will help the environment as well.
