| Frequently Asked Questions |
Question: What options are there for energy efficient street lighting?
Answer: There are two basic technologies that offer improved energy savings, lower maintenance and reduced impact to the environment. They are Induction lighting and LED lighting. Both systems are far superior to existing high pressure sodium, low pressure sodium and metal halide type of street lighting that are in common use in the United States. In some cases, there will be a combination of Induction and LED to provide a complete and safe, street lighting plan. Greenstreetlights.com works with leading vendors of both Induction and LED to provide the correct "fit" for each application.
Another important factor when changing over to a more energy efficient street lighting plan is to properly assess wattage requirements and pole spacing. In many cases, current wattage and pole spacing was haphazardly arrived at over a period of years. This can have a substantial impact on overall energy use, regardless of the lighting system. We provide expertise on an overall plan that minimizes over lighting and light pollution.
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Question: What is Induction Lighting?
Answer: Induction lighting is a proven technology that has been in use for over 20 years. Induction lighting is based on the well-known principles of induction and light generation via a gas discharge. The fact that it operates with no filament or electrode leads to a lamp of unmatched durability. Other advantages of induction lighting include instant starting and a higher color rendering index for a more pleasing 'white' light.
In the photos below, the reduction in wattage reduces energy use by over 50%. In addition, maintenance crews would have to replace the high pressure sodium bulbs over 6 times during the life of just one induction bulb.
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| 250 Watt High Pressure Sodium |
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| 100 Watt Induction |
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Question: What are LED Streetlights?
Answer: Light Emmiting Diode (LED) is a widely used technology in traffic signals and directional signage. For this purpose, it is an excellent fit and can save significant dollars and energy. The use of LED technology for street lighting is being considered by several communities, including a large test in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Bulb life is generally below (60,000 hrs for LED vs. 100,000 hrs for Induction) that of Induction Lighting, however there are properties of LED that can be an advantage in certain applications.
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Question: What is the purpose of the Beta Test?
Answer: The Beta Test is a crucial part of a successful street lighting changeover. It is important for Elected leaders, Department personnel and citizens to know exactly where and how they are investing their tax dollars. We also involve the media in an educational process to create buy-in for this green energy solution. Also, we have learned that businesses and neighborhood associations are particularly sensitive to changes in street lighting. We have found that Beta Testing creates a positive acceptance for this Green Solution.
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Question: Why not just replace our current bulbs with the energy efficient bulbs as they burn out?
Answer: The savings in both energy and maintenance are so substantial that delaying the full implementation plan can be very costly, both to the city and the environment. We provide a proprietary analysis of the existing street light inventory and recommend the most cost-effective implementation plan. Generally, full implementation will take place in a 12 to 24 month period.
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Question: Are there financing or lease/purchase options for Green Street Lights?
Answer: Yes, we work with some of the leading financial institutions and can recommend several options to pay for the lights. We work with some institutions that offer low interest rates for Green Energy lighting changeovers. Many cities have accessed funds at rates below their Triple A rated funds.
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Question: Does GREENSTREETLIGHTS.COM sell any particular brand of street lighting?
Answer: No, our primary business is working with cities to analyze, educate and build consensus to implement an energy efficient solution for street lighting. We work with BDA Consulting Group to provide technical assistance and assist with beta testing. BDA Consulting Group represents various lighting providers and advises on the correct fit for a particular application. Because of various procurement practices throughout the country, we feel we can best serve our clients by remaining neutral as to what specific brand is recommended.
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Question: Why haven't I heard of Induction and LED lighting?
Answer: The cost of Induction and LED lighting has discouraged there use as a replacement for general street lighting, but recent manufacturing improvements has made them a viable alternative.
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Question: What are the main advantages of changing to an Energy Efficient Street Lighting System?
Answer: The advantages can be summed up in three points:
Reduced energy usage.
Savings can be as much as 30 to 60%.
Long bulb life.
Bulbs are rated at 100,000 hours, which can equal about 20 years of life, based on normal street light operating hours.
Short pay back of initial investment.
Depending on energy and maintenance costs, pay back can occur between 3 and 7 years.
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Question: What is Dark Sky Compliance?
Answer: Light that 'leaks' from its intended target is inefficient and wastes valuable energy. It also can create glare and unwanted light trespass. We work with leading lighting professionals to offer recommendations to encourage Dark Sky Compliance.
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Question: What about solar power?
Answer: There have been great advances in solar energy storage and it is becoming more viable as a method of street lighting. Climate and hours of sunlight are important, as well as initial investment. We at greenstreetlights.com work with leading international solar providers to recommend solar when appropriate.
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