By the end of 2022, roughly 10,000 streetlamps in Coquitlam will be beaming with new lights that aim to reduce energy consumption by almost 60%.
The city is now in the process of switching 2,000 lamps to LED bulbs throughout the course of 2021, part four of a five-year project that began in 2018.
Each year, workers have replaced the same number of diodes — set to last up to two decades once installed — and recycled the old ones in continuation of the $5.6-million initiative, which is set to save the city $446,000 a year.
"The City expects to recoup the cost of the conversion in 14 to 17 years, and save $3.8 million over 20 years, as well as achieve a reduction in GHGs by an estimated 25 to 35 tonnes," reads a release from Wednesday (June 16).
"The new lights provide as good, or better, roadway lighting while reducing the amount of light pollution in the sky or spilling onto private property. This project reflects Coquitlam’s commitment to climate action and to providing good value and cost-efficient services."
WHICH LAMPS ARE GETTING LEDs?
There are specific existing streetlamps that are being converted to LED lighting.
This includes 3,500 cobra-style lights, which have arched necks and flat heads, and under 5,000 post-top lights.
Both will be switching to LED cobra-style fixtures that "focus the light down towards the sidewalk and street," the city explains, which is set to improve motorist and pedestrian safety at night.
Additonally, 1,100 post-top lights in several neighbourhoods are getting specialized kits for a smoother conversion to LEDs.
The city says they'll be strategically placed in core pedestrian areas of the following:
- Burquitlam
- Austin Heights
- Maillardville
- City Centre
However, 2,000 wooden poles with streetlights won't receive the new diodes as they're managed by BC Hydro.
For more information about the project, residents are encouraged to visit the streetlights page on the city of Coquitlam's website.
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