LEDs Signal Energy Savings in Halifax Regional Municipality
Nova Scotia and Halifax Regional Municipality are teaming up to save energy, save money, and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
The province and municipality are installing 4,114 energy-efficient traffic lights at 102 intersections in Halifax Regional Municipality. The new light emitting diode (LED) lights are expected to reduce energy costs by 90 per cent, last longer, shine brighter and save money on replacement and maintenance costs.
"LED traffic lights are a smart energy choice that will help Halifax Regional Municipality cut its energy costs, improve street intersection safety, and reduce maintenance costs," Energy Minister Bill Dooks said today, April 12. "These lights also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that lead to climate change because they do not require the same amount of electricity generation as traditional traffic lights."
"Halifax Regional Council approved a corporate local action plan this year to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Converting traffic lights to LED technology is one of the actions identified in that plan," said Halifax Regional Municipality Mayor Peter Kelly. "Many of our initiatives related to environmental sustainability depend upon partnerships and support from other agencies such as the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and we are very grateful for the support."
The conversion project, which is cost shared by the Department of Energy and the municipality, will see incandescent lights replaced in favour of energy efficient LED traffic lights. These LED lights are expected to last 100,000 hours. The province is investing $150,018 in the project. The municipality will match the investment.
Mr. Dooks said the lights are part of the province's commitment to help all Nova Scotians use energy wisely.
The traffic signal conversion project is part of the Department of Energy's Smart Energy Choices program. Traffic lights across the province owned by the Department of Transportation and Public Works have already been converted.