Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an LED light smart?
Most street and area lights are now equipped with an advanced photocell. If a streetlight goes out, the advanced photocell provides performance data to help Tampa Electric remotely diagnose the problem. This means quicker repairs and a reduction in downtime. If you see a malfunctioning light, please complete our report light form or contact us at 888-223-0800.

Are you using the advanced photocell for surveillance?
No, the advanced photocell does not watch or monitor individuals. A benefit of the smart photocell is that it can remotely collect performance data to help Tampa Electric diagnose a problem. This means quicker repairs and a reduction in downtime.

What is the difference between an area light and a streetlight?
Area lighting can be used to illuminate private areas such as backyards, playgrounds, parking lots and storage yards. These lights are installed as requested by a customer for a monthly fee. Streetlighting is used primarily to illuminate governmentally managed public thoroughfares and residential streets. Furthermore, residents can install streetlights on private streets through their local Homeowners Association (HOA) or Community Development District (CDD) for a monthly fee.

Does the light from an LED look different than a traditional light?
Yes, unlike HPS (high-pressure sodium) lamps that cast a yellowish-white light, LEDs produce a bright, natural white light that's similar to a MH (metal halide) lamp. The light cast from an LED is similar to daylight and provides the most natural color accuracy of any outdoor lamp.

Can a shield be added to help soften the light and reduce glare?
Yes, a shield can be added at an additional cost. To arrange to install a shield, please call Customer Care at 888-223-0800 on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Where can I get more information about your outdoor lighting solutions?
Visit our Bright Choices outdoor lighting page. If you have additional questions, please complete this online form or call Tampa Electric at 813-577-7082 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Does Tampa Electric install devices that enhance security?
Yes. We evaluate, design, install and maintain custom security monitoring solutions for homes, businesses and government. Submit our online form to receive a free evaluation or call 813-577-7082 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Does Tampa Electric install electric vehicle charging?
Yes, we install and maintain electric vehicle charging systems. Customer-specified equipment such as electric vehicle charging can be requested by completing this online form or calling Tampa Electric at 813-577-7082 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Does Tampa Electric offer virtual fiber? What is virtual fiber and what benefits does it offer?
Virtual fiber is a wireless data transmission technology providing high-bandwidth connectivity without the need for expensive infrastructure upgrades. Operating in the 60 GHz range, it utilizes narrow point-to-point links to connect devices. These devices can be attached to buildings, streetlights, poles and other structures. For more information, please complete our online form or call 813-577-7082 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Does Tampa Electric work with government entities to install devices that support traffic calming?
Yes, we work closely with governmental entities to deploy portable devices – or devices on poles – near roadways requiring enhanced safety and management of traffic flow. City, county and state officials use these devices to help maintain safe vehicle speeds and improve road safety. Here are some examples of how this technology is being used:

  • Portable Speed Display/Enforcement: We place portable, web-enabled radar speed displays for the city of Tampa that display real-time vehicle speeds to drivers. When a vehicle exceeds the speed limit, the display flashes the vehicle’s speed and informs the driver that their photo has been taken.
  • Pole-Mounted Traffic Calming: We install pole-mounted radar speed signs that display the speed limit and the vehicle’s actual speed. This is an effective way to remind drivers of the speed limit and how fast they are traveling.

How do I report a light that is damaged, is out or is malfunctioning?
You can report using our online form or call Customer Care at 888-223-0800 on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Can a shield be added to help soften the light and reduce glare?
Yes, a shield can be added at an additional cost. To arrange to install a shield, please call Customer Care at 888-223-0800 on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

My neighbor has one or more LEDs that are too bright. What can be done?
We suggest that you talk with your neighbor to express your concerns and ask him/her to contact Tampa Electric at the number listed below to discuss options. We may be able to reposition the light. If that's not possible, we may be able to add a shield at an additional cost to the customer leasing the light. If you're not able to speak with your neighbor, please call the number listed above and we will reach out to the customer who is leasing the light(s) and try to work out a solution.

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