LEDs Signal Energy Savings

The province of Nova Scotia and six municipalities are teaming up to save money and energy.

Both levels of government are spending time and money this year to convert older traffic lights to energy-saving light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. The project is expected to save the municipalities a combined total of up to $113,000 per year in energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2,300 metric tonnes per year.

"LED traffic lights are a smart energy choice that will help municipalities cut their energy costs, improve street intersection safety, and reduce maintenance costs," Energy Minister Bill Dooks said today, April 12. "These lights use less electricity so they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that lead to climate change."

About 4,700 incandescent lights at 118 intersections will be replaced this year with LED units. LEDs reduce energy costs by 90 per cent and are expected to last up to 10 years versus up to two years for incandescent bulbs.

Mr. Dooks says the lights are part of the province's commitment to help all Nova Scotians use energy wisely.

The Department of Energy is spending $173,658 provincewide. That investment includes: New Glasgow, $5,713; Digby, $1,255; Yarmouth, $4,178; Halifax Regional Municipality, $150,018; Annapolis Royal, $1,226, and; Bridgewater, $11,268. Each municipality that applied received funding.

The traffic signal conversion project is part of the Department of Energy's Smart Energy Choices program. A similar program last year meant nearly 2,600 lights were changed to LED in six communities. Traffic lights across the province owned by the Department of Transportation and Public Works have already been converted.