LED lighting conversion scheme completed in Leeds

Leeds City Council has announced the completion of its £22.5 million LED lighting scheme, which has successfully converted over 89,000 streetlights to energy-efficient LED lamps, resulting in significant cost savings and reduced carbon emissions for the city.

The final light was recently installed at Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds.

The project, which began in December 2018, has achieved significant results, including an expected annual saving of £3.4 million in electricity costs and a projected 62% reduction in street lighting energy consumption, The conversion to LED lighting is also estimated to result in 7,050 tonnes of carbon savings, with savings already being made throughout the lamp replacement.

The new LED lanterns offer enhanced durability and recyclability, contributing to reduced emissions from maintenance visits. Public support for the upgrade was strong, with over 80% of respondents endorsing the initiative during a public consultation conducted from November 2017 to January 2018.

Councillor Helen Hayden, executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, attended the installation of the final LED light on Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds this week, and said:

“The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in Leeds. This investment will deliver immediate cost savings and lay the groundwork for future advancements in smart technology”

Tom Cunningham, Tay Valley lighting (Leeds) director, added:

“We have been delighted to support Leeds City Council investment on the LED lantern works, the investment has provided many benefits, local employment opportunities during the period, reducing energy consumption and maintenance activities resulting in significant cost savings to Leeds City Council and carbon reduction impact from the project”.