It’s a green light for LED street lights

Strathcona County Council has given the green light on an initiative that will reduce power consumption and has potential to save dollars. The initiative, proposed by FortisAlberta, will replace high-pressure sodium street lights with cost-efficient LED lights.

“I am so pleased to see the County is working with FortisAlberta on a plan that supports our commitment to the environment,” says Mayor Roxanne Carr. “I have been a strong advocate since introducing this idea as a councillor in 2009. LED street lights have become more cost effective, making it feasible to replace the existing, less energy-efficient lighting.”

Strathcona County was the first community in Alberta to endorse a light-efficient community policy, in 2010. LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting could save the County approximately $20,865 per year, based on current power rates and the cost of fixtures.

LED lighting provides clearer, more consistent light quality and lower overall energy consumption. The lighting is dark sky friendly as it is more focused with less light lost into the night sky. LEDs have a longer life span than traditional street light fixtures and therefore reduce maintenance costs.

FortisAlberta estimates the County will save about 1,679,000 kWh/year, which is equivalent to taking 229 cars off the road, operating 215 homes, or planting 49,258 trees per year.

The initiative includes the upgrade of approximately 4,173 FortisAlberta-owned street light fixtures. Now that the proposal has been approved by the County, it will go to the Alberta Utilities Commission for approval.

More information on the light efficient community policy

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 per cent of refining in Western Canada. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.

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Contact:

Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595