LED Street Light Research Project Part II: New Findings

Abstract

Many cities are converting their existing street lighting to Light Emitting Diode (LED) source luminaires due to anticipated energy savings of 40 to 80 percent, as compared to high intensity discharge (HID) source luminaires, and maintenance savings estimated to be 50 to 75 percent due to the longer life of LED luminaires. Addressable electronic lighting controls and sensors are now available that can transform a basic streetlight into an intelligent, smart city device with public safety and other benefits. The number of variables that civic officials must consider for any street lighting conversion project has increased as a result of the rate of technological advances in LED luminaires, control systems, and optional components. The purpose of this report is to provide an understanding of recent industry and technology changes, address common concerns raised when using LED light sources, recommend model specifications for LED luminaires and lighting controls in the public right of way, make suggestions for improving industry norms and code changes, comment on add-on features that show promise, and discuss what to expect as technology advances and the LED lighting industry matures.