Streetlights turned off to save money
By proposing to remove 200 streetlights throughout the community, the Street Light Committee of Kennebunk, Maine, expects to save $20,000 annually.This proposal has spurred a great deal of discussion amongt local citizens, who believe that public safety is being compromised. (Source: seacoastonline.com).Many other communities have faced hikes in electricity rates without having to actually turn off the lights. Replacing old fixtures or even installing a more advanced, central control solution, would pay for itself over a relatively small period of time.Surprisingly, many streetlight committees seem to have very short horizons. Instead of working on a permanent solution that cuts costs, they often choose the short-sighted way.
September 14th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Why go to the expense of replacing the fittings or installing a central management system?
Just update the existing gear tray within the lantern (retrofit job) with a specialist night time dimming switch to use magnetic dual tapped ballasts. O.K. it’s utilising old technology but it works and has a proven long term life!
Approximate fitted costs around $80, typical payback around 3.5Years.
see www.micatron.co.uk