MEDIA RELEASE (June 4, 2018) In 2016, the Town converted 3,175 streetlights to LED (light-emitting diodes). The conversion resulted in $323,063 energy consumption and maintenance savings in 2017 when compared to 2015 results.

“The project is expected to pay for itself in 7.5 years based on the current energy price. Since LED streetlights have a life expectancy of 25 years, energy consumption and maintenance savings should result in an additional $5.25 million from 2025 to 2041,” said Kelly Walsh, Director, Infrastructure Services.

The $2.24 million LED streetlight conversion project was approved by Town Council as part of the 2015 Capital Budget.

“By investing in this project, we were able to improve our Town’s environmental footprint, save money and avoid committing to any long-term financial obligations,” said Mayor Wayne Redekop. “LEDs require significantly less maintenance and energy than the old high-pressure sodium bulbs; therefore, allowing for sustained savings over the next 25 years. The plan is to reinvest those savings in the Town’s roads, sidewalks, storm sewers and bridges.”

In addition to consuming less energy, LEDs produce a cleaner, whiter light that improves visual acuity and community safety. The beams of LEDs are also more concentrated on the roadway than traditional streetlights, which in turn help reduce light trespass.

For more information about the Town’s LED Streetlight Conversion project, please contact Kelly Walsh, Director, Infrastructure Services, at kwalsh@forterie.ca or 905-871-1600, ext. 2400.

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